Bacteria are microscopic, unicellular organisms that divide through cell division. They are found in almost every type of environment on Earth and can have a variety of different functions depending on the species.
Coliform Bacteria
- Are a collection of bacteria that aid in the digestion of food
- Live in colonies in the intestines of warm- and cold-blooded organisms
Fecal Coliform Bacteria
- Are a subgroup of coliform bacteria that are associated only with the fecal matter of warm-blooded animals
- When found in high concentrations can act as indicators for the presence of other disease-causing microorganisms such as Giardia or Cryptosporidium
Why should I care?
The presence of fecal coliform bacteria indicates that there are feces from a warm-blooded animal contaminating the water. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most common form of fecal coliform bacteria and although normally present in the digestive tract of humans and other mammals, contact with outside strains can lead to infection and serious illness.
The more closely related the animal is to humans, the greater the chances are for infection to occur if humans come in contact with the bacteria either through drinking contaminated water or while swimming. Ingestion of other organisms who may have accumulated the bacteria in their system may also result in infection.
In 1998, 11 of Lake Whatcom’s tributaries were listed as impaired water bodies because they failed to meet state water quality standards due to high fecal coliform counts. The resulting water quality problems triggered a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) study by the Washington Department of Ecology.
How does fecal coliform bacteria enter our lakes and streams?
The most common sources for E. coli include:
- Hobby farms
- Faulty septic systems and leaking sewers
- Waste from pets and wildlife
Just a few grams of pet waste can contain millions of fecal coliform colonies.
What can I do to help?
- Pick up after your pets!
- Get your septic tank inspected and pumped every 3-5 years
- Report any septic and sewer leaks
