An investigation into some aspects of the microbiology of diary cow and human waste and of the Lincoln Stream receiving these effluents: Presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Diploma in Natural Resources.

Abstract

Bacteriological examination of natural waters, using indicator organisms to establish their sanitary quality, is a standard procedure in water quality surveys. The coliforn and fecal streptococci bacteria, being natural inhabitants of the intestine, occur in very large numbers in human and animal excreta,hence their use as indicator organisms to indicate the extent of fecal pollution. There has been increasing interest in the possible use of bacteriological examination of water as a means of determining the nature and remoteness of a pollution source. To be able to distinguish animal waste contamination from human has obvious significance for public health purposes. For practical purposes, the determination of the age and source of fecal contamination should be reasonably apparent from the results of the investigatory methods used.