Title:

G02-NPS-19 James River Salmonella and Shigella

Sponsor:

Southwest Missouri State University/Steiert

Project Manager:

Dr. John Steiert
Office of Sponsored Programs
901 South National Avenue
Springfield, MO 65804-0089
417-836-6916

Project Period:

5/1/2002 - 7/1/2003

319 Grant Funds:

$4,730.26

Project Description:

Salmonella and Shigella in James River Basin

Waterways severely contaminated by fecal matter are limited in recreational use and pose a threat to human health. When waterways are found to have high levels of fecal coliforms, a no swimming warning is posted at the location the day after the contamination is detected. Fecal coliform contamination affects individuals who enjoy recreational waters as well as those who rely on the income generated by tourism. The current methods for monitoring bacterial contamination rely on indicator organisms such as fecal coliforms, Escherichia coli (E. coli) and enterococci. Monitoring indicator organisms may decrease the risk of exposure by recreational users to pathogenic bacteria; however, it does to prevent exposure.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The project focuses on monitoring of surface water at locations where public swimming is allowed in the James River, Finley River and Wilson Creek. Water chemistry and condition will be monitored along pathogen isolation of Salmonella and Shigella, which may aid the local environmental organizations in assessing what subwatersheds should be targeted for prevention and remediation processes that reduce bacterial nonpoint source contamination. Pamphlets will be distributed as educational and motivational tools for the public and the public health departments to become more involved in the monitoring and remediation of recreational waters.

OBJECTIVES

1. Determine if contamination from the organisms Salmonella, Shigella and toxigenic strains of E. coli exist in the James River, Finley River and Wilson Creek recreational swimming areas.
2. Create a citizenry that is accurately informed about the causes, extent and control of nonpoint source pollution through presentations at public meetings.
3. Aid local environmental groups and local governments in assessing what subwatersheds should be targeted for prevention and remediation processes that reduce bacterial nonpoint source pollution.

PRODUCTS

Water quality monitoring information.
No fewer than three public meetings describing the results of the project.
Pamphlets that describe the results of the analyses and the areas of nonpoint source emphasis will be distributed to the public health departments of Greene and Christian Counties.

PROJECT SPONSOR

Southwest Missouri State University

COOPERATING AGENCY

EPA/DNR

CONTACT

Southwest Missouri State University
901 South National Avenue
Springfield, MO 65804-0089
Dr. John Steiert
telephone: 417-836-6916
email: JohnSteiert@SMSU.edu