Investigating Your Watershed: Detection of Fecal Coliform Bacteria

 

Karin Readel

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2001, Volume 22

Abstract

This assay is one of many exercises used in a non-major course at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County called Water: An Interdisciplinary Study. Students work in groups throughout the semester, performing various lab exercises dealing with the chemical, physical, and biological properties of water. They then use these skills to design and complete a group project based on water quality. Many students choose to investigate the water quality of one of the ponds or streams on campus. The detection of high levels of fecal coliform bacteria in one of these ponds, especially after heavy rains, prompted a lively discussion in lecture. It also provided an opportunity for students to look at the drainage patterns within the local watershed and to suggest possible sources of the pollution.

Keywords:  E. coli, stream water quality, water quality, water pollution

Clemson University (2000)