Abstract
In collaboration with the non-profit environmental group Miami Waterkeeper, I conducted a pilot study elucidating the effects of tidal states on the concentration and distribution of the fecal indicator bacteria(FIB)enterococci. The study took place in Biscayne Bay, a semi-tropical lagoon located adjacent to the City of Miami in southeastern Florida. Through the analysis of tidal and enterococci data, this study aimed to gain a better understanding of the relationship between tides and this genus of bacteria. In order to meet the objectives of this study, water sampling, processing, analysis, statistical analyses, and geographic information systems (GIS) analyses took place. Samples were taken on a weekly basis in several locations within Biscayne Bay, processed that same day, and analyzed the following day.This data, along with supplementary data from Florida Department of Health(FDOH), was used within the ArcGIS Pro software to create maps and run analyses to determine the effects of tides on enterococci distributions and concentrations. This study is warranted due to the nature of warnings issued to the public for beach and water access as a result of high levels of enterococci. Data analysis found that average enterococci levels are greatest when tidal conditions are high.This result was likely due toincreased nutrient availability, tidal phase, and additional environmental factors. Having an enhanced understanding of tidal influence could allow Miami Waterkeeper water quality monitoring program to prepare in advance for the reporting of high bacteria levels when problematic tidal situations are expected and grant management programs,like the FDOH’s Florida HealthyBeaches Program,the ability to issue public water access warnings due to predicted high levels of enterococci.