Application of Faecal Source Tracking Tools to Understand the Sources and Risks of Microbial Contamination of Stormwater

Stormwater has been recognised as one of the major sources of diffuse pollution to the aquatic environments. Several studies have shown that stormwater can contribute to the deterioration of water and sediment quality of a waterway. To correctly manage the pollution sources in stormwater it is beneficial to understand the main sources during dry and wet weather events. Faecal Source Tracking methods can be used to determine the sources of pollution in Stormwater. This allows for suitable mitigation options to be put in place to manage the source. Details of two case studies involving Stormwater are discussed as well as the impact of structural best management practices on the microbial loading of Stormwater.