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More Information about Pathogen Source Tracking–Library Independent Methods
Background
NOAA estimates that approximately 153 million people live in coastal counties, an increase of 33 million since 1980. An additional 12 million are expected in the next decade. During 2001, there were 13,410 days of beach closings and advisories across the nation due to high levels of bacteria or other pollution (Rufe, 2002). Higher population densities mean greater stress and anthropogenic effects (nonpoint source contamination) on nearby ecosystems. The presence of fecal bacteria (from humans, wildlife, food animals, and pets) in the water of these systems suggests that disease-causing pathogens may be present. According to EPA, pathogens are the major pollutants of water bodies nationwide (Zhang, 2002).
Three of the NCCOS strategic goals for FY 2005-2009 support NCCOS’s responsibility of providing accurate, timely, and useful scientific support to coastal⁄ocean managers in preserving ecosystems at sustainable levels. Other goals include understanding the human and natural stressors that affect coastal ecosystems (NCCOS, 2004). Coastal managers’ capacities will be strengthened with the transfer of knowledge and tools from NCCOS research projects.
Literature Cited
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Bernhard, A.E., and K.G. Field (2000b). A PCR assay to discriminate human and ruminant feces on the basis of host differences in Bacteroides-Prevotella genes encoding 16S rRNA. Appl Environ Microbiol. 66(10):4571-4.
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