Date Approved

8-8-2026

Graduate Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Biology (M.S.)

Degree Program

Biology

First Advisor

Dr. Ryan Otter

Second Advisor

Dr. Sean Woznicki

Third Advisor

Dr. Charlyn Partridge

Academic Year

2025/2026

Abstract

Contamination of public recreational water and sand is a human health concern, creating a management challenge for public health officials. Past research has shown that Escherichia coli can persist in sediment and can be washed into recreational water. Currently, beach monitoring practices only utilize E. coli concentrations in water samples to determine beach safety and do not consider potential exposure to sediment/sand concentrations. In this study, I investigated the relationship between E. coli concentrations in water and sand samples, which will aid public health officials in making more informed decisions about beach closures. I utilized culture-based measurements of E. coli during four unique sampling events at two site locations, Hoffmaster Campground Beach and Meinert Park Beach, to compare sand and water E. coli concentrations to one another and at different water depths as well as different beach sites. Samples were taken around and within tributaries, specifically during dry periods. Additionally, I identified sources of contamination using microbial source tracking methods. I found that E. coli concentrations within tributary water samples were highest at both sites compared to all other locations sampled. Additionally, E. coli was highest in lake water at a shallower depth. These findings indicate that certain areas of the beach that may need increased sampling and potentially visitor warnings. Results from this project have provided more information about the dynamic ways in which contamination can enter recreational areas and cause beach closures.

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