Beach science in the Great Lakes

摘要: Abstract Monitoring beach waters for human health has led to an increase and evolution of science in the Great Lakes, which includes microbiology, limnology, hydrology, meteorology, epidemiology, metagenomics, among others. In recent years, concerns over accuracy water quality standards at protecting have a significant interest understanding risk associated with contact both freshwater marine environments. Historically, surface been monitored fecal indicator bacteria (fecal coliforms, Escherichia coli , enterococci), but shortcomings analytical test (lengthy assay) resulted re-focusing scientific efforts improve public protection. Research discovery widespread populations present natural habitats such as soils, sand, stranded algae. Microbial source tracking used identify these subsequently assess their impact on health. As result many findings, attempts made monitoring efficiency efficacy use empirical predictive models molecular rapid tests. All along, managers actively incorporated new findings into programs. With abundance research conducted information gained last 25 years, “Beach Science” emerged, Lakes focal point much ground-breaking work. Here, we review accumulated microbiological beaches provide historic context collaborative that advanced this emerging science.