WINNEMUCCA — The Humboldt County School District acted swiftly Wednesday afternoon to restrict water at Grass Valley Elementary School after being notified of E. coli contamination in the water system used by the school. 

According to Assistant Superintendent Dave Jensen, the Nevada Department of Environmental Protection (NDEP) provided the district with guidelines to follow during the outbreak.  The water fountains were turned off and the district will provide bottled water to students and staff. Additional detergent will be used to clean cooking equipment and hand sanitizer will be provided to students and staff -- who are encouraged to use it after washing their hands.

“As a district and a school we are extremely concerned with the safety of our students,” Jensen said.  “Our staff are aware of the situation and will respond in an effective manner.”  He added the water precautions will remain in place as long as necessary.

An automated telephone message went out to parents Wednesday afternoon (Dec. 2).  The message informed parents of the E. coli outbreak and steps the school was taking to protect the students.  GVES Principal Tim Connors met with staff to outline the situation.  The school is preparing a letter to send home to parents today (Thursday, Dec. 3).   

NDEP has issued a Boil Water Order until further notice for everyone using Gold Country Estates water.  The contaminated area in Grass Valley effects approximately  950 residences, the school, and a church.