Evaluating Water Quality Sampling Schedules Using Fecal Coliform Concentrations in Sabino Creek

Abstract

Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, adjacent to Tucson, and a major water-based recreation complex within the Santa Catalina Mountains, Coronado National Forest, receives intensive recreational use. This natural water resource area with primary water contact activities was monitored for fecal coliform in accordance with U.S. Forest Service Regulation (FSM 2542.2). As part of a larger study, this report discusses the relationships between time, day, and location of sampling with fecal coliform bacterial concentrations in Sabino Creek. Analysis of Variance shows that fecal coliform concentrations were higher: 1) on Sunday than Wednesday, 2) at 4:00PM than 8:00AM or 12:00 Noon, and 3) in the lower section of the four miles of the study area. This research provides the U.S. Forest Service with baseline water quality data and a benchmark from which to continue an efficient water quality monitoring program.