Using microbial source tracking to identify fecal contamination sources in Patchogue and Bellport Bays on Long Island, New York

• DOI: 10.3133/sir20225007
• Publication Date: 2022-03-30T17:37:36Z
• Authors: Tristen N. Taglia...; Shawn C. Fisher; Christopher M. Ke...; Natalie Cheung; Ariel P. Reed; Robert J. Welk
• Keywords: Source tracking; Indicator bacteria

First posted March 30, 2022 For additional information, contact: Director, New York Water Science CenterU.S. Geological Survey425 Jordan RoadTroy, NY 12180-8349 The U.S. Survey worked in cooperation with the State Department of Environmental Conservation to assess potential sources fecal contamination entering Patchogue and Bellport Bays, two embayments on south shore Suffolk County, Long Island, York. samples are routinely collected by bays analyzed for coliform bacteria, an indicator contamination, determine need closure shellfish beds harvest consumption. Fecal other bacteria presence pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria. However, alone cannot biological or geographical contamination; therefore, microbial source tracking was implemented various contamination. In addition, information such as location, weather season, surrounding land use where a sample help conveyance land-based water embayment.Analysis revealed that most substantial Bays discharge from sites draining ponds wetlands into rivers tributaries sampled, particularly during summer months. at drain increased stormwater runoff, which is another Overall, canine- waterfowl-associated bacterial contributions were prevalent both bays. Human-associated markers present surface-water completely absent receptor Bay. Fireplace Neck site Bay had human-associated marker wet only. Human detected downstream wastewater treatment plant but associated low concentrations, indicating not likely lack detections within coupled no coliform, especially small marinas creeks tributaries, suggest boats do substantially contribute There little evidence groundwater-contributing direct subsurface. Further, sandy sediment alongside unlikely test host organisms when resuspended column. A classification scheme developed convey degree stakeholders resource managers. Based this scheme, Corey Creek Near Middle Road, River Division Street, Swan Mouth sampling identified locations Bay, Culvert Beaverdam location contributing