Impact of low intensity summer rainfall on E. coli- discharge event dynamics with reference to sample acquisition and storage

摘要: Understanding the role of different rainfall scenarios on faecal indicator organism (FIO) dynamics under variable field conditions is important to strengthen evidence base which regulators and land managers can informed decisions regarding diffuse microbial pollution risks. We sought investigate impact low intensity summer Escherichia coli-discharge (Q) patterns at headwater catchment scale in order provide new empirical data FIO concentrations observed during baseflow conditions. In addition, we evaluated potential using automatic samplers collect store freshwater samples for subsequent analysis storm sampling campaigns. The temporal variation E. coli with Q was captured six events throughout a relatively dry central Scotland. relationship between concentration complex no discernible cell emergence that were repeated across all events. On several occasions, an magnitude increase occurred even slight increases Q, but responses not consistent highlighted challenges attempting characterise relative rainfall. Cross-comparison determined water simultaneous manual grab automated sample collection undertaken difference methods. However, duration storage within autosampler unit found be more problematic terms impacting representativeness quality, unrefrigerated autosamplers exhibiting significantly initial after 12-h storage. findings from this study contributions growing dynamics.