Baker County DNA Testing/Tracking
View the DNA Testing Results:
DNA Testing Results Spreadsheet.xlsx
The Baker County MST/DNA Tracking Project is focused on identifying sources of E. coli bacteria in local waterways. Through water sampling and DNA alaysis using microbial source tracking, E. coli samples can be traced to individual organisms present in the watershed (example: ruminant, avian, human, etc.) The overall goal of this project is to collect at least five years of continuous science-based data to better understand the source of E. coli inputs, and to prioritize restoration efforts in the Powder River Basin.
Water samples are collected on a monthly basis, year round, from 16 sites across the basin (when accessible and safe to do so). During the sampling, air temp, soil temp, relative humidity and pH are also noted at the site, as well as average flow. The samples are shipped to and tested for E. coli DNA at H2O Molecular Lab, and results are sent to the SWCD within two weeks to be recorded and tracked.