The rashes are probably from microscopic Protozoa (entering chapped or sunburned skin) in which a county Department of Health test recently found in the Deep Creek Hot Springs. If swallowed in any large amount, it can cause amoebic dysentery; or very painful death if it acquires nasal passage to the brain.

It is believed that this strain is from fecal matter in the water, possibly from animals. Dogs are suspected as wild animals usually won't enter hot springs; while domestic dogs are known to "relax" themselves in warm water.

The forest service periodically samples hot and warm spring waters to determine whether the water flush through presents a sufficient turn over rate for the public's safety. Recently, the forest service has closed several hots springs within the U.S. (one in Southern California) due to unsafe (insufficient) water flows.

Due to the depth of D.C.H.S.'s main pool which allows Protozoa to grow on the bottom unaffected by the water flowing above it (until stirred by human feet), D.C.H.S. is a prime candidate for cautious monitoring and possible closure. The water flow is not considered good for the combined pool sizes.

Some viewers have expressed a need to contact the county to post signs and to improve the Bowen Ranch Road. An improved roadway would certainly increase the number of users to the hot springs, increase its contamination, and likely lead to its closure to the public.