11/22 NYS DEC & DOH Update

DEC AND DOH LIFT RECREATIONAL USE ADVISORY FOR ISCHUA CREEK IN CATTARAUGUS COUNTY​

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), in coordination with the New York State Department of Health (DOH), today lifted the recreational use advisory for Ischua Creek, Cattaraugus County. Water quality sampling and data collection along the creek show conditions have improved allowing for a return to normal fishing/fish consumption, boating, and swimming. 

“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," DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. "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 said, “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.”

Protecting the health of New Yorkers and the environment is a top priority and out of an abundance of caution, DEC and DOH issued the precautionary advisory on August 28, 2025, due to environmental impacts from wastewater discharged from the Great Lakes Cheese facility in Franklinville.  

DEC is continuing to closely monitor water quality in Ischua Creek. Monitoring shows improved compliance with ambient water quality standards and successful implementation of many treatment plant corrective actions to stabilize effluent water quality entering the creek. There continue to be no indications of impacts to public drinking water supplies. 

Anglers are reminded to always consult DEC’s freshwater fishing regulations and DOH’s New York State advice on eating fish you catch.