Scientists sampling surface waters for antimicrobial resistant bacteria

Antimicrobial resistance of clinical relevance may have important implications to human and animal health. In this photo, Laura Scott and Christina Ahlstrom (USGS – Alaska Science Center) are sampling surface waters for antimicrobial resistant bacteria at Exit Creek in Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska. The USGS has partnered with the National Park Service to develop and optimize new tools for evaluating the occurrence and dissemination of antimicrobial resistance genes in surface waters. Data products and summaries will provide information on potential contaminants that may be present on National Park Service managed lands.