Water Quality Report - Freedom Park Ponds

Our ponds are tested weekly for E. Coli the specific test required by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for water bodies designated for recreational use. The E. Coli test is the only test currently available to monitor fresh water quality in relation to public health. The West Pond (the pond with the dock) is sampled in two different locations, one at Dockzilla and the other at the northwest corner of the pond near the three shade structures. The East Pond is currently sampled in one location, at the southwest corner where the beach area is. 

E. Coli is measured by the most probable number (MPN) of colony forming bacterial units per 100 milliliters (mL) of water. This is commonly written as "MPN / 100 mL." DEQ has established a single E. Coli sample limit of 235 MPN / 100 mL. All water quality testing data collected at the Freedom Park ponds is reviewed by DEQ. A summary of the City's water quality testing is provided in the table above (click on the table to make it larger). The water at Freedom Park has less E. Coli than the DEQ limit.

The pond water is not potable and is not treated or chlorinated like a swimming pool. The pond is natural water with fish and other wildlife in it and it is not intended for drinking or ingestion. We remind parents to closely supervise young children to help prevent accidental swallowing of water. Additionally, we encourage all swimmers to wash their hands after swimming and before eating to reduce the risk of stomach illness or other potential water-related issues.

Please note, there are multiple fountains in both ponds that are critical in providing mixing and recirculation of the pond water. The mixing and recirculation of the water helps maintain and clean and safe pond for recreational uses. We have struggled with individuals climbing on and breaking the fountains resulting in reduced mixing of the water.  If you see somebody climbing on or tampering with the fountains, please contact info@staridaho.org.

Note: On June 10, 2025 we received the test results for the June 6, 2025 sample. The results showed higher than normal E. Coli at the ponds. In coordination with DEQ, we immediately contacted our contractor who samples the water and scheduled a verification sample for the next morning June 11. The verification sample included water samples from the same three locations and five additional locations. We also ordered a "rush" analysis at the lab to get the test results the next day. On June 12 we received the test results for the verification sample as provided in the table below. The eight samples taken on June 11 and the additional testing completed on June 19 and 26 all show E. Coli levels within the normal and acceptable range. It is believed that the June 6 sample was incorrect due to an unknown external factor.

Swimmer’s Itch Reported at Freedom Park Ponds

The City of Star has received several reports from individuals who believe they developed swimmer’s itch after swimming in the ponds at Freedom Park.

Swimmer’s itch (also known as cercarial dermatitis) is a skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to microscopic parasites that can be found in natural water bodies — particularly in warm, shallow areas where birds and snails are present. It is an occasional and naturally occurring condition seen in lakes and ponds across the region, including at other popular recreation sites like Lucky Peak and the Boise River.

Swimmer’s itch is not dangerous and not contagious, but it can be uncomfortable. Reactions vary from person to person — some may experience mild red bumps or itching, while others could have stronger responses.

The best way to reduce the risk is to dry off immediately and thoroughly with a towel after leaving the water. Avoiding areas with visible aquatic plants and rinsing off or showering as soon as possible also helps.

If you or your child experiences symptoms of swimmer’s itch, we recommend following the care tips provided by Coeur d'Alene Pediatrics at this link: cdapeds.com/Swimmer-s-Itch-Lakes-and-Oceans

Please remember: Freedom Park ponds are natural bodies of water, not treated swimming pools. Certain seasonal conditions like swimmer’s itch can occur, especially during the warmer summer months.