Title: Microbial Source-Tracking project
Author: J Porter
Author: Environment Agency
Document Type: Monograph
Annotation: Environment Agency Project ID:EAPRJOUT_1594, Representation ID: 6, Object ID: 1331
Abstract:
In order to manage faecal pollution in our bathing waters, we need more information on the sources of such pollution. This project aimed to develop, test and establish routine procedures to determine the original host animal group of faecal bacteria found in water. The project proceeded in two stages. Stage 1 involved training staff and developing a routine service to distinguish faecal pollution from human and ruminant (farm) animal sources for the 2007 bathing water season. At the time the project started (January 2007), this was as far as the technology allowed. Stage 2 was to develop and test new markers to allow further discrimination of the possible sources of faecal pollution, in the priority order of birds, dogs, humans. Stage 2 investigated a variety of possible markers for birds and dogs, and an alternative marker for humans. All markers were screened against individual faecal samples from known host animals to confirm specificity and sensitivity. The best performing candidate markers were characterised and the information gained from each evaluated. These will be incorporated into the routine service. This project has developed non-quantitative routine methods to identify the sources of microbiological pollution, set the groundwork for semi-quantitative data, and established a route towards quantitative data. This information will help guide remedial action, and focus resources when tackling problems.
Publisher: Environment Agency
Subject Keywords: Coastal waters; Environmental protection; Water pollution; Bathing water; Microbial ecology; Brackishwater environment
Geographic Keywords: England; Wales
Taxonomic Keywords: Cycleau
Extent: 39
Permalink: http://www.environmentdata.org/archive/ealit:4343
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