Publication Summary

This literature review discusses possible methods for differentiating between human and non-human sources of fecal contamination in surface waters. This document is written for the water quality investigator. Some of the more promising tools for assisting the investigator with source identification are described. The document is divided into sections on microbiological, chemical, and other methods for identifying sources of fecal contamination. A short description of each method is provided along with some examples of studies that used the technique, and advantages and disadvantages of each method.

This literature review discusses possible methods for differentiating between human and non-human sources of fecal contamination in surface waters. This document is written for the water quality investigator. Some of the more promising tools for assisting the investigator with source identification are described. The document is divided into sections on microbiological, chemical, and other methods for identifying sources of fecal contamination. A short description of each method is provided along with some examples of studies that used the technique, and advantages and disadvantages of each method.

The study concludes that there is no easy, low-cost method for differentiating between human and non-human sources of bacterial contamination. Quantifying the contribution from different sources is as yet not possible. The most frequently used and well tested method at this time is genetic fingerprinting. Promising methods on the horizon include techniques to amplify DNA using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), multiple antibiotic resistance, bacteriophages, and methods using a combination of indicators. The report recommends that the Department of Ecology do further research on streptococcal population profiles, and periodically update this publication.