Environmental Health Featured Science Activities

USGS scientists have advanced methods to measure bacterial activity in environmental waters. Their research showed that when bacteria naturally in the water are exposed to substances like pharmaceuticals, herbicides, and antimicrobials, their normal functions are disrupted. This finding suggests that monitoring bacterial activity could provide early warnings about potential problems with water...

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is conducting studies to better understand algal bloom dynamics to enhance lake management. Recent research, in Lake Okeechobee, Florida, focused on phytoplankton community and abundance. Phytoplankton can be a potential driver of harmful algal blooms (HABs).

Managing harmful algal blooms in the Great Lakes requires understanding the roles of nitrogen, phosphorus, and micronutrients, emphasizing a comprehensive approach beyond just phosphorus reduction.

Stormwater and road runoff are recognized forms of pollution that can contain chemicals harmful to fish and other aquatic animals. This includes 6PPD-quinone, the oxidized form of the chemical compound 6PPD that is used to prevent tires from degrading and cracking, ensuring driver safety. As 6PPD-quinone sheds from tires during normal wear it can enter streams in stormwater runoff.

Plastic pollution is a significant global issue in aquatic ecosystems, with low-micrometer plastics (LMMPs) posing particular risks owing to their small size and prevalence in various environments. The U.S. Geological Survey and collaborators are developing an innovative sensor to detect and analyze LMMPs in freshwater systems, achieving rapid and accurate results without the need for additional...

The U.S. Geological Survey is researching the effect of wildfires on the release of stored mercury from forest watersheds and subsequent transport, methylmercury formation, and bioaccumulation post-fire. Wildfires not only alter the re-release of mercury into the environment but also affect its reactivity and availability to the food web, complicating predictions of mercury exposure risks to...

U.S. Geological Survey scientists are seeking to understand the impacts of mercury mining on headwater streams, organisms, and food webs, focused on potential effects from historical mining in central Idaho. Mercury associated with mine waste can leave a legacy of contamination that continues to impact stream health in culturally and ecologically important headwater streams after mining activities...

In October of 2024, USGS Scientist’s published a study where they created a model to predict PFAS occurrence in groundwater at the depths of drinking water supplies. This model can help guide our partners to sample areas where PFAS in drinking water could be an issue for the public.

Tire and road wear particles have been shown to cause acute effects to sensitive aquatic animals and degrade their habitats. U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists developed methods to accurately identify aquatic compounds, such as 6PPD and 6PPD-quinone, that can cause acute mortality events in coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch).

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists conducted the first statewide assessment of antibiotics, antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB), and antibiotic resistant genes (ARGs) in streams (water column and bed sediment samples) across Iowa. Results indicated that ARB and ARGs were prevalent, and a combination of watershed characteristics (such as land use, livestock population, and human population)...

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists have developed a tool that can be used by practitioners to help interpret injury to birds caused by methylmercury contamination. This tool was developed from a comprehensive review of 168 studies and summarizing data on the effects of methylmercury on birds.

In 2024, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) released a strategic vision document identifying harmful algal bloom (HAB) and algal toxin science gaps, while prioritizing research relevant to the mission, expertise, and capabilities of the USGS. The intention is for USGS and stakeholders to use this document as a starting point for planning, prioritizing, and designing future HAB and algal toxin...