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Identifying animal impacted beaches using a watershed approach
Citation:
Telech, J., E. A. SAMS, AND M. MURPHY. Identifying animal impacted beaches using a watershed approach. Presented at ESRI International User Conference, San Diego, CA, August 04 - 08, 2008.
Impact/Purpose:
research results
Description:
Pathogens in animal manure and other wastes pose potential risks to human health if the wastes are not adequately treated and contained. These pathogens, which can survive for months in the environment under the right conditions, can contaminate water and land [from runoff, enhanced by rainfall]. The density of animals in a catchment basin is related to the amount of zoonotic pathogens that enter water sources within the catchment. Recreational waters are one area in which humans can can come in direct contact with these pathogens. This poster presents a methodology for identifying beaches which are at the greatest risk for contamination from an animal. Further research, including source tracking and water quality testing are needed to confirm the source of contamination for proper health research to be conducted.