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The Microbiology Laboratory

The Ohio Water Microbiology Laboratory (OWML) offers a wide range of sample analyses, media, and other microbiological supplies for USGS Water Science Centers across the nation.

Analyses include quantification of standard bacterial indicators and other bacteria in water or sediment, and quantification or detection of coliphage in water.  

Capabilities_Courtney Hackney training Max Schroeder and Lauren Lynch_AMGB
Courtney Hackney training Max Schroeder and Lauren Lynch

The OWML also analyzes samples for molecular constituents, including microbial source tracking (MST) markers and cyanobacterial harmful algal bloom (cyanoHAB) genes. Molecular methods are constantly evolving and can be a valuable tool for evaluating water quality conditions.