Pollutants in the Pasquotank River

Heather Potersnak

Michael CostaKanika BryantMatt Bishop

The Problem

As we all know, the Pasquotank River’s water quality is exceedingly below national standards. Not only is it unappealing, there are severalharmful bacteria living and growing in the water. One extremely hazardous bacteria is Escherichia Coli (E. coli).

The five testing stations used along the Pasquotank River.

E. coliE. coli is a bacteria that lives solely in the feces of warm blooded animals. Because of this, you may think that there is very little chance of contracting it. However, E. coli is mostly found in three places, rivers and other bodies of water, human hands, and finally our food! If infected with E. coli poisoning, you may experience vomiting, fever, and chills. Long- Term results may include severe gastrointestinal illnesses.

Runoff

There are two major types of runoff. One type is point source runoff which comes from definite points of origin, such assewer pipes. However the most prominent in our area, are non-point sources which can originate from anywhere, such as storm water.

How E. coli Travels

After extensive research, E. coli was found to be the single most dominant bacteria in the Pasquotank River. Surprisingly, Non-point source runoff is E. coli’s major transportation. Heavy rain water sweeps urban streets, ditches, and heavily wooded areas, carrying with it bird, farm animals, and various other organisms feces. From there the runoff travels downhill eventually to our rivers, where they grow into colonies.

Monthly E. coli Levels

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Colonies per100mL

*Average level is 126 colonies per 100 mL

Prevention

Now that we have found an underlying problem, preventative measures were researched. Studies show that thick

vegetation in certain areas greatly reduces runoff into rivers and streams, and if runoff cannot reach our rivers, neither can the E. coli bacteria.

Further Conservation

A few additional ways to aid in the breakdown A few additional ways to aid in the breakdown of E. coli in our rivers:of E. coli in our rivers:

• Plant trees along the river’s edge.Plant trees along the river’s edge.

• Refrain from littering.Refrain from littering.

• Pick up any non-biodegradable waste in Pick up any non-biodegradable waste in your area.your area.

• Always clean up after your animals!Always clean up after your animals!

Credits

www.cotf.edu

www.ecsu.edu/ECSU/AcadDept/Geology/FSJomepage/Dewberry.htm

www.vims.edu