What are Coliform Bacteria and E. coli (i.e., fecal coliform indicator)?
Coliform bacteria are microorganisms (i.e., too small to be seen without a microscope) that originate in the intestinal tract of warm blooded animals and as organisms in soil and vegetation. Coliform bacteria that are often associated with human and animal fecal matter. Coliform bacteria are not necessarily disease producing themselves but can be indicators of organisms that cause adverse health effects. Escherichia coli (E. coli) are bacteria that live in the intestines of people and animals (i.e., fecal coliform indicator). The confirmed presence of E. Coli bacteria indicates that infectious microorganisms maybe in your water. Most strains of E. coli bacteria are harmless although certain strains cause illnesses. Drinking water sources can be contaminated by storm water run-off from roadways, farms and livestock operations, discharges from sewage treatment or septic systems. If total coliform bacteria are found, further testing is required to determine if the coliform bacteria are of
