Water samples collected along the water courses of surface water sources of domestic water supply in Ezinihite Mbaise were analyzed for bacterial species inventory and total viable count (TVC) using the multiple test tube technique and colony counters. The surface waters covered include Ariam River and other tributaries that constitute the bulk of surface water resources in the area. Eight species of bacteria including E-coli, staphylococcus aureus, salmonella, and fecal streptococci among others were identified. Total viable counts gave alarming growth levels when compared o the standards as set by the world health organization (WHO). The microbial population explosion in the river is attributable to the multiple activities within and around the river also the uses including wash off from abattoirs carrying abattoir wastes directly into the river, domestic wastes dumped along the recharge path, others include in stream fermentation of food stuff and general laundry point for any for clothes, automobiles. All these make sufficiently available to enhance microbial growth. Surface water use should be monitored to ensure sustainability and proper management of watershed will control this trend of colonization of public water supply sources and in turn control the trends in water borne infections.