Dr. Tom Edge and Stephen Hill have been awarded a Scientific and Technical Achievement Award from the United States Environmental Protection Agency for their recent research publications on microbial source tracking.  Environment Canada and United States Environmental Protection Agency researchers applied genomics techniques to discover new DNA markers for bacteria unique to the gut of seagulls and Canada geese. New polymerase chain reaction methods were then developed to detect the DNA markers in water samples in order to identify fecal contamination from these birds.  When urban water samples from Ottawa, Toronto and Hamilton, Ontario were tested for the seagull DNA marker, it was detected at every study site investigated.  The seagull DNA marker was most commonly detected in beach sand, beach water, and in urban runoff from impervious surfaces like parking lots. These results are providing a better understanding of the potential for widespread seagull fecal contamination in some urban settings and are guiding bird control programs around the Great Lakes to reduce the numbers of beach closures.

Contact: Tom Edge, tom.edge@ec.gc.ca, 905-319-6932, Aquatic Ecosystem Protection Research