The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), together with the New York State Department of Health (DOH), has lifted the recreational use advisory for Ischua Creek in Cattaraugus County. This decision follows recent water quality sampling and data collection, which show that conditions in the creek have improved. As a result, normal activities such as fishing, fish consumption, boating, and swimming can resume.
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “Lifting the recreational advisory reflects the months of hard work by DEC staff to diligently chronicle creek impacts and collaborate to bring Great Lakes Cheese into full compliance. Under Governor Kathy Hochul’s direction, DEC took decisive steps to hold Great Lakes Cheese accountable and we are committed to continuing our stringent oversight of the facility to help ensure the long-term protection and restoration of the creek.”
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald added, “The news of this advisory lift demonstrates the commitment of Governor Hochul to ensure public health is protected. The State Health Department will continue to work with DEC to ensure that the safety of New York State’s water bodies and drinking water systems is upheld.”
The precautionary advisory was first issued on August 28, 2025, after wastewater from the Great Lakes Cheese facility in Franklinville impacted environmental conditions along Ischua Creek. According to state officials, protecting both public health and environmental quality remains a top priority.
Recent monitoring indicates improved compliance with ambient water quality standards at Ischua Creek. Officials also report that corrective actions taken at the treatment plant have stabilized effluent water quality entering the creek. There have been no signs that public drinking water supplies were affected.
Anglers are advised to review DEC’s freshwater fishing regulations as well as DOH’s advice on eating locally caught fish.
