Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID 2012HI355B

Evaluation of rapid QPCR method for enterococci with correlative assessment for molecular markers for sewage contamination in selected environmental water samples from Hawaii.

Institute: Hawaii
Year Established: 2012 Start Date: 2012-03-01 End Date: 2014-02-28
Total Federal Funds: $40,000 Total Non-Federal Funds: $83,180

Principal Investigators: Marek Kirs

Abstract: The proposed project aims to evaluate rapid qPCR test for enterococci and microbial source tracking technology in Hawaii. Tests for current and alternative microbial indicators will be conducted in parallel to evaluate potential of novel molecular methodologies. These tests are applicable in marine and freshwater environments. The evaluation of those methodologies will improve current microbial water quality monitoring programs and is critical for meaningful water management decisions in Hawaii. The project will be a collaborative effort between WRRC (UH), City and County of Honolulu and Department of Health, Hawaii and is timely as new rapid method for enterococci will be implemented by USEPA in 2013.