Citation:

SHANKS, O. C. BACTERIAL SOURCE TRACKING. Presented at USEPA Region 5 Total Maximum Daily Load Training Workshop, Hickory Corners, MI, November 17, 2005.

Impact/Purpose:

To inform the public

Description:

Fecal contamination of surface waters used for recreation, drinking water and aquaculture are a continuous environmental problem and pose significant human health risks. An alarming amount of the US rivers/streams (39%) lakes (45%), and estuaries (51%) are not safe for fishing and swimming according to the National Water Quality Inventory 2000 Report. The problem is often difficult to correct because the source of the contamination cannot be determined with certainty. Run-off from non-point sources (e.g., manure from dairy pastures), failing septic tanks, and overloads from sewage treatment facilities are primary candidates. Molecular methods are currently being investigated to match bacterial phenotypic and genotypic traits with the origin of fecal pollution. These methods, collectively referred to as bacterial source tracking, may provide the critical information needed to identify specific sources responsible for contamination, assess health risks, and develop management plans to restore and protect aquatic resources. This presentation will review some of the main methods used in bacterial source tracking, provide a brief overview of the US EPA Office of Research and Development Microbial Source Tracking Guide Document, and highlight current research projects.

Record Details: