Coliforms are commonly used as an indicator of drinking water quality. As we discussed, in March and April of 1993 there was a major outbreak of gastrointestinal illness in Milwaukee, Wisconsin caused by contamination in the public drinking water supply. As summarized by MacKenzie et al.1, “throughout the period from February to April 1993, samples of treated water from both (water treatment) plants were negative for coliforms and were within the limits set by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for water quality.” Why, in this case, did coliforms remain at acceptable levels despite water contamination that resulted in over 400,000 cases of gastrointestinal illness?

Coliforms are commonly used as an indicator of drinking water quality. As we discussed, in March and April of 1993 there was a major outbreak of gastrointestinal illness in Milwaukee, Wisconsin caused by contamination in the public drinking water supply. As summarized by MacKenzie et al.1, “throughout the period from February to April 1993, samples of treated water from both (water treatment) plants were negative for coliforms and were within the limits set by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for water quality.” Why, in this case, did coliforms remain at acceptable levels despite water contamination that resulted in over 400,000 cases of gastrointestinal illness?

Aquaculture Science

3rd Edition

ISBN:9781133558347

Author:Parker

Publisher:Parker

Chapter12: Water Requirements For Aquaculture

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 29SA

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