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During
the 2003 recreational season, the Maumee Bay
is being monitored to determine the densities of Escherichia coli in
the water, bottom sediment, and suspended sediment. The purpose of the study
is to determine the relationship between water quality variables and
densities of E-coli and to identify sources of E-coli to the Maumee Bay.
Twenty four sample sites were located
through out the Maumee River
and western Lake Erie to cover drainage and
major inlets to the Maumee Bay
area. A map showing the near shore and off shore sites can be seen in by
following the Maumee Bay link. Sites with a M in the
identifier represents sites in the Maumee River, and O in the site
designation refers to off shore sites, and an N in the site identifier indicates
sites that are near shore. At all these locations, bottom sediment and water
samples were collected and tested for E-coli.
Sediment traps are being used to
collect the suspended sediment. The traps have five sets of 2 graduated
cylinders. One set is pulled for analysis after 1 to 2 weeks and replaced
with a clean cylinder. The design of the traps allow E-coli to be monitored
over time.
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