WINNEMUCCA — A boil water order was issued today (Feb. 28) for residents on the Gold Country Estates water system in Grass Valley.  The order was issued by the Nevada Department of Environmental Protection after water samples taken on Feb. 26 tested positive for E. coli bacteria. 

The boil water order was the second issued to users on the Gold Country Estates system in three months. 

Residents were instructed to bring water to a boil then let boil for one minute to kill any potential bacteria.  This should be done before water is consumed or used for brushing teeth, washing dishes, or preparing food.  Residents may also consider using bottled water.

Residents with children attending Grass Valley Elementary School may want to consider sending bottled water with the student as GVES is on the Gold County Estates water system.  During the last occurance the school was able to provide bottled water immediately.

In a notice to residents Gold Country Estate operators indicated they would disinfect the entire system then test again to ensure safe drinking water.  The notice indicated operators hoped to have the situation resolved by 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 3.

The presence of E.coli indicates the water was contaminated with human or animal waste, which may occur due to run-off after heavy rains or if there's a break in the delivery pipes.  E. coli may also occur if there's a failure in the treatment process.