Identifying Fecal Contamination Sources in the Grand NERR

The Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (GNDNERR) has a history of elevated fecal coliform counts; however, the source of the contamination is unknown.

Images of Enterococcus which is a fecal indicator bacteria.

About the Project

Monthly sampling took place over the course of a year at six sites within the main watershed of the GNDNERR and two sites upstream in the bayous. Having the two sites upstream allowed for a better understanding of how rainfall affects fecal contamination throughout the estuary.

Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was used for microbial source tracking to identify levels of potential fecal sources from humans, feral hogs, and birds within the estuary as well as the concentrations of enterococcus, a fecal indicator bacteria.

Get in Touch

Amanda Free, Extension Program Associate

amf654@msstate.edu

Contact Us
(228) 388-4710
1815 Popps Ferry Rd.
Biloxi, MS 39532

Fax: (228) 388 – 1375

Mailstop: 9385

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About Coastal Conservation and RESTORATION program

Our focus areas are broad and adapt to the current needs of stakeholders, but generally involve coastal conservation and restoration projects at local, state, regional, national, and international scales.