Sewage and fecal pollution

In Puget Sound, fecal pollution comes from both point-source origins such as combined sewer overflows and direct marine effluent discharge as well as non point-source origins such as surface water runoff, both of which increase with rainfall and river and stream discharge. In addition to serving as an indicator of pathogens, fecal bacterial pollution can also be an indicator of nutrient loading because sewage often contains high levels of nitrogen and phosphorous. Both point source (failing septic systems) and non-point sources (landscape features) contribute to fecal bacterial levels in Puget Sound. 

Source: Puget Sound Science Review

Overview

Marine fecal bacteria

Fecal bacteria are found in the feces of humans and other homeothermic animals. They are monitored in recreational waters because they are good indicators of harmful pathogens that are more difficult to measure. 

Read More

Related Articles

A stream flows through dense greenery, with fallen logs in the water and trees and vegetation crowding both banks under a clear blue sky.

Many actions may be needed to improve Puget Sound waters

Scientists at the Washington Department of Ecology along with many other researchers have spent years studying and debating the problem of low oxygen in Puget Sound. Now, many new developments — technical, scientific and legal — are reaching a critical stage and setting up a framework to make some major decisions. This is part four of a four-part series originally published in the Puget Sound Institute blog.
Read More
A group of translucent jellyfish floating in greenish water, with sunlight reflecting off the surface.

Computer models examine the extent of Puget Sound's low oxygen water-quality problem

Scientists at the Washington Department of Ecology along with many other researchers have spent years studying and debating the problem of low oxygen in Puget Sound. Now, many new developments — technical, scientific and legal — are reaching a critical stage and setting up a framework to make some major decisions. This is part three of a four-part series originally published in the Puget Sound Institute blog.
Read More
Aerial view of marina with boats, nearby water treatment plant with four circular tanks, surrounded by buildings, roads, and green space.

Water-cleanup plans and the search for ‘reasonable’ actions

Scientists at the Washington Department of Ecology along with many other researchers have spent years studying and debating the problem of low oxygen in Puget Sound. Now, many new developments — technical, scientific and legal — are reaching a critical stage and setting up a framework to make some major decisions. This is part two of a four-part series originally published in the Puget Sound Institute blog.
Read More
Close-up of a crab with a dark brown shell and orange-tipped legs on a wooden surface, claws extended and shell texture visible.

The debate over oxygen in Puget Sound

Scientists at the Washington Department of Ecology along with many other researchers have spent years studying and debating the problem of low oxygen in Puget Sound. Now, many new developments — technical, scientific and legal — are reaching a critical stage and setting up a framework to make some major decisions. This four-part series was originally published in the Puget Sound Institute blog and looks back on how we have reached our present condition, including a consideration of possible solutions. Subsequent parts of the series are available through a link at the conclusion of this article.
Read More
Cover of 2022 Salish Sea toxics monitoring synthesis: A selection of research

2022 Salish Sea toxics monitoring synthesis: A selection of research

A 2023 report from the Puget Sound Ecosystem Monitoring Program presents an overview of selected recent monitoring and research activities focused on toxic contaminants in the Salish Sea. 

Read More
Report cover for Puget Sound Marine Waters 2020 Overview

Puget Sound Marine Waters 2020 Overview

The tenth annual Puget Sound Marine Waters Overview looks at marine water quality and other conditions in the region in 2020. According to the report, there were few extreme weather or ecological events in 2020, but overall, conditions in Puget Sound were generally warmer, sunnier, and wetter than in typical years. The overview also examines patterns and trends in numerous environmental parameters, including plankton, water quality, climate, and marine life. 

Read More