SRWW Volunteers Study Bacteria in Clear Creek

Salt River Watershed Watch volunteers were concerned about high levels of bacteria in Clear Creek, which runs through Shelbyville, KY. Elevated levels of E. coli bacteria were found in SRWW monitoring downstream of Shelby Lake and at Red Orchard Park This creek is runs through several beautiful parks with walking trails and canoe launches, and Shelby Lake is a popular fishing and boating destination. These amenities provide wonderful outdoor recreational opportunities, but the elevated bacteria in Clear Creek concern.

The statewide volunteer monitoring organization, Watershed Watch in Kentucky (WWKY) approved funding for this project at their August, 2018 meeting. The project proposal presentation is can be accessed HERE.

A team of 7 SRWW volunteers was assembled, and 11 monitoring sites were identified along Clear Creek, Mulberry Creek and an un-named tributary. A map of monitoring sites and results can be accessed HERE. Photos of the monitoring sites and sampling location information can be accessed HERE.

The team collected E. coli samples that were analyzed by Microbac Laboratories in Louisville. A non-laboratory testing method for E. coli bacteria was also used. This method is called Compartment Bag Test (CBT), developed by Dr. Mark Sobsey of University of North Carolina and marketed by Aquagenx. The CBT method required more steps to be completed by the volunteers, but cost 50% less than the lab test. Training slides can be accessed HERE.

Samples were collected at 9 or 10 sites on October 1, 11 and 23, 2018. Samples were analyzed in the field for pH, temperature and conductivity. The team tested for E. coli bacteria using the Aquagenx CBT kits and also delivered samples to Microbac for analysis.

The bacteria results were grouped into categories of Low, Medium, High and Very High based on concentration. The lab and CBT results were compared by bacteria category. A presentation summarizing the study can be accessed HERE

Results of the study show that:

• Bacteria was elevated throughout the watershed
• There were no consistent patterns or obvious hot spots for E. coli bacteria
• Observed sources of bacteria included waterfowl, other wildlife, pets, livestock, potentially homeless people camping near Clear Creek
• E. coli bacteria concentrations were higher after wet weather
• 79% of samples (27 of 34) were in same E. coli category ~ CBT was an effective alternative to lab testing

Trained volunteers can successfully use the CBT method to:

• Conduct watershed studies, recreational area evaluation
• Conduct testing