Building Beach Managers Capacity for Using Rapid Tools Submitted to Michigan DNR

Rapid quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) methods are ready for use to provide timely information to protect recreational-water users from waterborne pathogens. However, local health departments and beach managers currently lack the equipment and training to implement these new rapid tools. This project aims to bring rapid tools to public health laboratories for beach monitoring through a training and technical assistance program with a strong emphasis on quality assurance/quality control and standardized data interpretation. This project will also produce a training video and a “How to” Manual for qPCR methods for monitoring fecal pollution of beaches to be used nationwide in future applications.