Distribution of Fecal Indicator Bacteria in Flood Control Channels of Huntington Beach, California

摘要

High levels of fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) consisting of total coliform (TC), E. coli (EC), and enterococci (ENT) bacteria indicate the presence of fecal contamination in the surf zone. Previous studies indicated possible tidal influence of flood control channels on the coastal water quality. As part of a class project, 14 undergraduate students, consisting of Chemical Engineering and Environmental Engineering majors, performed this study during rising (flood) and falling (ebb) tides, and showed the distribution of FIB in flood control channels. While the students were exposed to field work and laboratory procedures for the water quality, the results have important implications in the design of the diversion systems during dry weather.