Quantification of Pathogens and Sources of Microbial Indicators for QMRA in Recreational Waters

This project set out to identify and address data gaps pertaining to loadings and concentrations of waterborne pathogens and fecal indicator bacteria in discharges-of-concern to recreational waters and to compile, analyze, and synthesize the data in QMRA models and waterborne risk management frameworks. The risk assessment data and approaches described in the report advance the current understanding and establish a new state of the science for recreational water quality and risk assessment tools. This will help stakeholders and agencies involved in implementing and complying with recreational criteria to more accurately predict health risks and mitigate sources of fecal pollution. It is hoped that this research will support QMRA as an important tool for U.S. EPA, providing data for research and tools related to the development and implementation of new/revised recreational water quality criteria. Published by WERF. 384 pages. Online PDF. (2011)

Originally funded as WERF project PATH2R08.