MSU Center for Water Sciences
CWS Researchers at Work
CWS and its many faculty members work on water issues around the world. Here are a few highlights of our work:
CWS Releases Pathogen Workshop Report
The Pathogen Workshop Series was designed to bring together nationally renowned water scientists and a diverse group of stakeholders (Water Fellows) to learn about sources, pathways, and impacts of pathogens in water and to discuss potential solutions.
The products from the Pathogen Workshop series, including the report Waterborne Pathogens: Where Michigan Stands Now and Recommendations for Our Future, were released at a joint committee meeting of the House Committee on Great Lakes and Environment and Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Environment on Wednesday May 14th, 2008.
Click here for the press release.
Click here for a news story on the report (WLNS TV)
Learn more about the Pathogen Workshop Series>>
Media contact: Dr. Joan Rose
Rivers Great and Small Can Fight Pollution, If Given A Chance
Dr. Stephen Hamilton and a team of researchers studied what happens to nitrogen washing into our rivers and streams. Click here to read an article about the study.
Drugs in our Water
Dr. Joan Rose, Co-director of CWS, appeared on Talk of the Nation to discuss a new report showing that many of the medications we take are now being found in our water. Click here to listen to the show.
Studying 'muck' in Saginaw Bay, MI
Dr. Joan Rose and her lab are investigating the 'muck' in Saginaw Bay, MI. Recently, excessive algal growth, or “muck” has covered the shoreline along Saginaw Bay (see picture below). The muck seems to have increased in duration and spatial distribution compared to past years. Saginaw Bay citizens, especially local homeowners, are concerned about the health of their beaches. In addition, there are potential health risks due to the potential for these algal mats (which primarily comprised of the benthic algae, Cladophora) to retain and/or promote the growth of pathogens. In preliminary testing, the presence of a potential fecal signature in the material indicates a cause for concern and the need for appropriate management strategies.
Resources:
Tests show evidence of human sewage along shoreline at state park
MSU biologist in town to collect muck and bay water samples (pdf)
Image: "Muck" along the shore at Bay City State Park (Photo: Juli Dyble)
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