Aquatic indicator bacteria in the high alpine zone

Area of Science:

• Environmental science
• Microbiology
• Ecology

Background:

• High alpine zone waters in Grand Teton National Park were assessed for indicator bacteria.
• Previous studies have not fully elucidated factors influencing alpine water quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the influence of various factors on indicator bacteria populations in alpine waters.
• To assess the impact of human presence versus the natural biological community on water quality.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of indicator bacteria populations in selected alpine waters over three summers.
• Identification of coliform and fecal streptococci species and their potential sources.

Main Results:

• Water quality was primarily influenced by the surrounding biological community, not human visitor presence.
• A minority of coliforms were fecal coliforms.
• Fecal streptococci were linked to native rodent and moose populations.

Conclusions:

• Alpine water quality is more dependent on the natural ecosystem than human activity.
• Management of alpine areas should incorporate biological parameters beyond just indicator bacteria levels.