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Aaron D Firnstahl

Aaron is a Physical Scientist at the Upper Midwest Water Science Center.

Education and Certifications

  • B.S. 2009, Geology and Geophysics; B.S. History; Certificate, European Studies; Certificate, Classical Studies; University of Wisconsin-Madison

Science and Products

Three scientists collecting residential water well samples on sunny snowy day

Well Water Advisory Forecasts for northeast Wisconsin

The fractured bedrock of northeast Wisconsin is vulnerable to groundwater contamination because water and contaminants can move quickly. LIDE is launching a study to predict contamination of private wells in northeast WI using Runoff Risk Advisory Forecasts (RRAF). RRAF is an online tool that forecasts conditions conducive to surface runoff, and the long-term vision is to leverage its forecasts to...
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Well Water Advisory Forecasts for northeast Wisconsin

Well Water Advisory Forecasts for northeast Wisconsin

The fractured bedrock of northeast Wisconsin is vulnerable to groundwater contamination because water and contaminants can move quickly. LIDE is launching a study to predict contamination of private wells in northeast WI using Runoff Risk Advisory Forecasts (RRAF). RRAF is an online tool that forecasts conditions conducive to surface runoff, and the long-term vision is to leverage its forecasts to...
Learn More

Automated time-series measurement of microbial concentrations in groundwater-derived water supplies Automated time-series measurement of microbial concentrations in groundwater-derived water supplies

We deployed a sampler to characterize water quality from a household well tapping a shallow fractured dolomite aquifer in northeast Wisconsin. The sampler was deployed from January to May 2017, and monitored temperature, nitrate, chloride, specific conductance, and fluorescent dissolved organic matter on a minute time step; water was directed to sequential microbial filters during three...
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Microbial concentrations derived from laboratory experiments with hemodialyzers performed in Marshfield, Wisconsin Microbial concentrations derived from laboratory experiments with hemodialyzers performed in Marshfield, Wisconsin

Laboratory experiments conducted in 2023 by the Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE) evaluated recovery of microorganisms by dead-end ultrafiltration using the Nipro Elisio™ hemodialyzer, with comparison to the Asahi Kasei Rexeed™ hemodialyzer. Experiments included 2 bacteria, 4 viruses, and 1 protozoan, including Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella enterica serovar
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Microbial analyses of water from private wells in southwestern Wisconsin, 2019 to 2020. Microbial analyses of water from private wells in southwestern Wisconsin, 2019 to 2020.

Private wells (n = 138) were sampled by large- and small-volume sampling methods in Grant, Iowa, and Lafayette Counties, Wisconsin, USA in 2019 and 2020. Well water samples were analyzed for microorganisms by quantitative polymerase chain reaction at the Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE). Gene targets for viruses, bacteria, and protozoa were analyzed, including...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Microbial source tracking for streams in Scott County, Iowa, 2023 Microbial source tracking for streams in Scott County, Iowa, 2023

Surface water samples (n = 33) were collected in fall of 2023 at stream sites in Scott County Iowa, USA and were analyzed for microbial source tracking markers by quantitative polymerase chain reaction at the Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE). Microbial source tracking markers identify fecal sources of contamination by detecting microbes that are specific to...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

SARS-CoV-2 Data from National Wastewater Surveillance System Surge Capacity Sampling, September 2021 SARS-CoV-2 Data from National Wastewater Surveillance System Surge Capacity Sampling, September 2021

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) is used to determine the consumption of, or exposure to, chemicals or pathogens in human populations, and is conducted by collecting representative samples of untreated wastewater (influent) to quantify pathogens shed in the population served by the sampled wastewater system. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US Department of...
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Air sampling equipment at base of waterfall
Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument
Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument
Air sampling equipment at base of waterfall

Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Air sampling equipment at base of waterfall

Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Air sampling units rest on top of a grassy and rocky hill
Air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument
Air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument
Air sampling units rest on top of a grassy and rocky hill

Air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Background control and no run control air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone Creek at Pipestone National Monument.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Air sampling units rest on top of a grassy and rocky hill

Air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Background control and no run control air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone Creek at Pipestone National Monument.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
A wintery landscape
A winter landscape in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin
A winter landscape in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin
A wintery landscape

A winter landscape in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

A winter landscape in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

A wintery landscape of snow-covered grass and trees on a late morning in November in Kewaunee County in northeast Wisconsin.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
A wintery landscape

A winter landscape in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

A winter landscape in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

A wintery landscape of snow-covered grass and trees on a late morning in November in Kewaunee County in northeast Wisconsin.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Paper flyer hanging from door handle for a wall water advisory forecast study
Well water advisory forecast study sample collection door hanger
Well water advisory forecast study sample collection door hanger
Paper flyer hanging from door handle for a wall water advisory forecast study

Well water advisory forecast study sample collection door hanger

Well water advisory forecast study sample collection door hanger

Kewaunee Wisconsin well water advisory forecast study door hanger left after sample collection.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Paper flyer hanging from door handle for a wall water advisory forecast study

Well water advisory forecast study sample collection door hanger

Well water advisory forecast study sample collection door hanger

Kewaunee Wisconsin well water advisory forecast study door hanger left after sample collection.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Scientist in yellow jacket and green hat turning tap on side of house.
Collecting residential tap water sample in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin
Collecting residential tap water sample in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin
Scientist in yellow jacket and green hat turning tap on side of house.

Collecting residential tap water sample in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

Collecting residential tap water sample in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment team member Joel Stokdyk collects residential private well water sample for the well water advisory forecast study in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Scientist in yellow jacket and green hat turning tap on side of house.

Collecting residential tap water sample in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

Collecting residential tap water sample in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment team member Joel Stokdyk collects residential private well water sample for the well water advisory forecast study in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Three scientists collecting residential water well samples on sunny snowy day
LIDE team members collecting private water well samples in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin
LIDE team members collecting private water well samples in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin
Three scientists collecting residential water well samples on sunny snowy day

LIDE team members collecting private water well samples in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

LIDE team members collecting private water well samples in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

Team members from the USGS Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE) collecting private well water samples on a chilly November day in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin. Pictured from left to right Joel Stokdyk (USGS), Rachel Cook (USDA), Aaron Firnstahl (USGS). 

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Three scientists collecting residential water well samples on sunny snowy day

LIDE team members collecting private water well samples in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

LIDE team members collecting private water well samples in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

Team members from the USGS Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE) collecting private well water samples on a chilly November day in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin. Pictured from left to right Joel Stokdyk (USGS), Rachel Cook (USDA), Aaron Firnstahl (USGS). 

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Two scientists standing in front of white van in front of residential garage
LIDE team members in front of field vehicle when traveling to collect private well water samples
LIDE team members in front of field vehicle when traveling to collect private well water samples
Two scientists standing in front of white van in front of residential garage

LIDE team members in front of field vehicle when traveling to collect private well water samples

LIDE team members in front of field vehicle when traveling to collect private well water samples

Joel Stokdyk (USGS) and Rachel Cook (USDA) from the USGS Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE) standing in front of field vehicle en route to collecting private well water samples on a chilly November day in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Two scientists standing in front of white van in front of residential garage

LIDE team members in front of field vehicle when traveling to collect private well water samples

LIDE team members in front of field vehicle when traveling to collect private well water samples

Joel Stokdyk (USGS) and Rachel Cook (USDA) from the USGS Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE) standing in front of field vehicle en route to collecting private well water samples on a chilly November day in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Filter Total Items: 24

Quantitative microbial risk assessment with microbial source tracking for enteric pathogens in southwest Wisconsin private wells Quantitative microbial risk assessment with microbial source tracking for enteric pathogens in southwest Wisconsin private wells

Private wells supply drinking water for many households, and their contamination by fecal microbes presents a risk of acute gastrointestinal illness (AGI). Risk is thought to vary by contaminating fecal source, but specific associations with fecal source are unknown for most private wells in the United States. This study characterizes AGI risk in Grant, Iowa, and Lafayette counties in...
Authors
Tucker R. Burch, Joel P. Stokdyk, Joe Heffron, Sarah A. Opelt, Aaron D. Firnstahl
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Detection of viral, bacterial, and protozoan pathogens and microbial source tracking markers in paired large- and small-volume water samples Detection of viral, bacterial, and protozoan pathogens and microbial source tracking markers in paired large- and small-volume water samples

When sampling for waterborne microbes, researchers may need to diverge from recommended sample volumes due to logistical constraints, novel targets, or challenging matrices, with little guidance about the potential impact on results. In field studies, we measured bacteria, viruses, and protozoa (15 quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays) in paired large- and small-volume samples...
Authors
Joe Heffron, Joel P. Stokdyk, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Rachel M. Cook, Claire E. Hruby, Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Groundwater surveillance of swine pathogens from private wells supplying swine farms in Iowa Groundwater surveillance of swine pathogens from private wells supplying swine farms in Iowa

Biosecurity practices are essential for maintaining pig health and productivity. Despite these measures, pathogen spread still occurs. Water is one of the largest daily inputs on swine farms by volume and is not routinely tested or disinfected before it is consumed by the animals [1-3], making it a poorly understood biosecurity risk. Groundwater from privately-owned wells is a common...
Authors
Gabrielle Doughan, Becca Walthart, Michele Moncrief, Elise Snezek, Kristin Skoland, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Phillip Gauger, Justin Brown, J. L. Bonnema, Mark A. Borchardt, Joe Heffron, Joel P. Stokdyk, Tucker R. Burch, Locke Karriker
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Sources and risk factors for nitrate, pathogens, and fecal contamination of private wells in rural southwestern Wisconsin, USA Sources and risk factors for nitrate, pathogens, and fecal contamination of private wells in rural southwestern Wisconsin, USA

Household well water can be degraded by contaminants from the land's surface, but private well owners lack means to protect the source water from neighboring disturbances. Rural residents of southwestern Wisconsin, USA, rely on private well water, and the combination of land use and fractured carbonate bedrock makes groundwater vulnerable to contamination. To identify the extent, sources...
Authors
Joel P. Stokdyk, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Kenneth Bradbury, Maureen A. Muldoon, Burney Kieke Jr., Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Laboratory assessment for recovery of porcine circovirus 2 and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus using two types of commercially available hollow-fiber ultrafilters Laboratory assessment for recovery of porcine circovirus 2 and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus using two types of commercially available hollow-fiber ultrafilters

Groundwater near swine farms is an uninvestigated reservoir for porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and porcine circoviruses (PCVs). Enteric microorganisms are often collected from groundwater via dead-end ultrafiltration, but recovery of PRRSV and PCV with this method has not been assessed. We recovered PRRSV2 and PCV2 by dead-end ultrafiltration followed by...
Authors
Aaron D. Firnstahl, Gabi Doughan, Sarah A. Opelt, Rachel M. Cook, Joseph Heffron, Karen Krueger, Mark A. Borchardt, Locke Karriker, Joel P. Stokdyk, Tucker R. Burch
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Quantitative microbial risk assessment with microbial source tracking for mixed fecal sources contaminating recreational river waters, Iowa, USA Quantitative microbial risk assessment with microbial source tracking for mixed fecal sources contaminating recreational river waters, Iowa, USA

Fecal contamination of surface water can cause acute gastrointestinal illness (AGI) among recreators. AGI risk varies among human, livestock, and wildlife fecal sources, but the prevalence of individual sources is unknown for most recreational sites. We estimated AGI risk for six sites near Des Moines, Iowa, using quantitative microbial risk assessment combined with microbial source...
Authors
Tucker R. Burch, Joel P. Stokdyk, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Sarah A. Opelt, Rachel M. Cook, Joe Heffron, Amanda Brown, Claire E. Hruby, Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Two risk assessments: Evaluating the use of indicator HF183 Bacteroides versus pathogen measurements for modelling recreational illness risks in an urban watershed Two risk assessments: Evaluating the use of indicator HF183 Bacteroides versus pathogen measurements for modelling recreational illness risks in an urban watershed

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of HF183 Bacteroides for estimating pathogen exposures during recreational water activities. We compared the use of Bacteroides-based exposure assessment to exposure assessment that relied on pathogen measurements. We considered two types of recreational water sites: those impacted by combined sewer overflows (CSOs) and those not...
Authors
K Skiendzielewski, Tucker R. Burch, Joel P. Stokdyk, Shannon McGinnis, S McLoughlin, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Sandy Spencer, Mark A. Borchardt, Heather M. Murphy
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Des Moines water trails: Health risk from waterborne pathogens during recreational water use Des Moines water trails: Health risk from waterborne pathogens during recreational water use

No abstract available.
Authors
Tucker R. Burch, Joel P. Stokdyk, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Sarah A. Opelt, Rachel M. Cook, Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Microbial source tracking and land use associations for antibiotic resistance genes in private wells influenced by human and livestock fecal sources Microbial source tracking and land use associations for antibiotic resistance genes in private wells influenced by human and livestock fecal sources

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing public health problem that requires an integrated approach among human, agricultural, and environmental sectors. However, few studies address all three components simultaneously. We investigated the occurrence of five antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and the class 1 integron gene (intI1) in private wells drawing water from a vulnerable aquifer...
Authors
Tucker R. Burch, Joel P. Stokdyk, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Burney Kieke Jr., Rachel M. Cook, Sarah A. Opelt, Sue Spencer, Lisa Durso, Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Assessing private well contamination in Grant, Iowa, and Lafayette Counties, Wisconsin: The southwest Wisconsin groundwater and geology study Assessing private well contamination in Grant, Iowa, and Lafayette Counties, Wisconsin: The southwest Wisconsin groundwater and geology study

Rural residents of Grant, Iowa, and Lafayette Counties in Wisconsin rely on private wells for their water. Contaminants like nitrate and bacteria from septic systems, fertilizer, and manure can contaminate the groundwater that residents use. Groundwater is vulnerable to contamination where the soil layer is thin and the bedrock is fractured, which is the case for much of the study region...
Authors
Joel P. Stokdyk, Mark A. Borchardt, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Ken Bradbury, Moe Muldoon, Burney A Kieke
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Statewide quantitative microbial risk assessment for waterborne viruses, bacteria, and protozoa in public water supply wells in Minnesota Statewide quantitative microbial risk assessment for waterborne viruses, bacteria, and protozoa in public water supply wells in Minnesota

Infection risk from waterborne pathogens can be estimated via quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) and forms an important consideration in the management of public groundwater systems. However, few groundwater QMRAs use site-specific hazard identification and exposure assessment, so prevailing risks in these systems remain poorly defined. We estimated the infection risk for 9...
Authors
Tucker R. Burch, Joel P. Stokdyk, Nancy Rice, Anita C. Anderson, James F. Walsh, Sue Spencer, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Fate and seasonality of antimicrobial resistance genes during full-scale anaerobic digestion of cattle manure across seven livestock production facilities Fate and seasonality of antimicrobial resistance genes during full-scale anaerobic digestion of cattle manure across seven livestock production facilities

Anaerobic digestion has been suggested as an intervention to attenuate antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in livestock manure but supporting data have typically been collected at laboratory scale. Few studies have quantified ARG fate during full-scale digestion of livestock manure. We sampled untreated manure and digestate from seven full-scale mesophilic dairy manure digesters to assess...
Authors
Tucker R. Burch, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Susan K. Spencer, Rebecca A. Larson, Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Collaborative USGS study informs the development of water recreation sites by providing water quality data and health risk research - Iowa Public Radio feature

Collaborative USGS study informs the development of water recreation sites by providing water quality data and health risk research - Iowa Public Radio feature

Scientists at Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment are collaborating with Polk County Conservation in central Iowa to estimate the...

Read Article
Launch of Northeast Wisconsin Well Water Advisory Forecast Study

Launch of Northeast Wisconsin Well Water Advisory Forecast Study

The Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (usgs.gov/LIDE) recently launched the Well Water Advisory Forecast study in Northeast...

Read Article

Science and Products

Three scientists collecting residential water well samples on sunny snowy day

Well Water Advisory Forecasts for northeast Wisconsin

The fractured bedrock of northeast Wisconsin is vulnerable to groundwater contamination because water and contaminants can move quickly. LIDE is launching a study to predict contamination of private wells in northeast WI using Runoff Risk Advisory Forecasts (RRAF). RRAF is an online tool that forecasts conditions conducive to surface runoff, and the long-term vision is to leverage its forecasts to...
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Well Water Advisory Forecasts for northeast Wisconsin

Well Water Advisory Forecasts for northeast Wisconsin

The fractured bedrock of northeast Wisconsin is vulnerable to groundwater contamination because water and contaminants can move quickly. LIDE is launching a study to predict contamination of private wells in northeast WI using Runoff Risk Advisory Forecasts (RRAF). RRAF is an online tool that forecasts conditions conducive to surface runoff, and the long-term vision is to leverage its forecasts to...
Learn More

Automated time-series measurement of microbial concentrations in groundwater-derived water supplies Automated time-series measurement of microbial concentrations in groundwater-derived water supplies

We deployed a sampler to characterize water quality from a household well tapping a shallow fractured dolomite aquifer in northeast Wisconsin. The sampler was deployed from January to May 2017, and monitored temperature, nitrate, chloride, specific conductance, and fluorescent dissolved organic matter on a minute time step; water was directed to sequential microbial filters during three...
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Microbial concentrations derived from laboratory experiments with hemodialyzers performed in Marshfield, Wisconsin Microbial concentrations derived from laboratory experiments with hemodialyzers performed in Marshfield, Wisconsin

Laboratory experiments conducted in 2023 by the Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE) evaluated recovery of microorganisms by dead-end ultrafiltration using the Nipro Elisio™ hemodialyzer, with comparison to the Asahi Kasei Rexeed™ hemodialyzer. Experiments included 2 bacteria, 4 viruses, and 1 protozoan, including Campylobacter jejuni, Salmonella enterica serovar
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Microbial analyses of water from private wells in southwestern Wisconsin, 2019 to 2020. Microbial analyses of water from private wells in southwestern Wisconsin, 2019 to 2020.

Private wells (n = 138) were sampled by large- and small-volume sampling methods in Grant, Iowa, and Lafayette Counties, Wisconsin, USA in 2019 and 2020. Well water samples were analyzed for microorganisms by quantitative polymerase chain reaction at the Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE). Gene targets for viruses, bacteria, and protozoa were analyzed, including...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Microbial source tracking for streams in Scott County, Iowa, 2023 Microbial source tracking for streams in Scott County, Iowa, 2023

Surface water samples (n = 33) were collected in fall of 2023 at stream sites in Scott County Iowa, USA and were analyzed for microbial source tracking markers by quantitative polymerase chain reaction at the Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE). Microbial source tracking markers identify fecal sources of contamination by detecting microbes that are specific to...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

SARS-CoV-2 Data from National Wastewater Surveillance System Surge Capacity Sampling, September 2021 SARS-CoV-2 Data from National Wastewater Surveillance System Surge Capacity Sampling, September 2021

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) is used to determine the consumption of, or exposure to, chemicals or pathogens in human populations, and is conducted by collecting representative samples of untreated wastewater (influent) to quantify pathogens shed in the population served by the sampled wastewater system. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the US Department of...
By
Eastern Ecological Science Center
Air sampling equipment at base of waterfall
Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument
Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument
Air sampling equipment at base of waterfall

Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Air sampling equipment at base of waterfall

Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Air sampling unit near the base of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Air sampling units rest on top of a grassy and rocky hill
Air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument
Air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument
Air sampling units rest on top of a grassy and rocky hill

Air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Background control and no run control air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone Creek at Pipestone National Monument.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Air sampling units rest on top of a grassy and rocky hill

Air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone National Monument

Background control and no run control air sampling units upstream of Winnewissa Falls at Pipestone Creek at Pipestone National Monument.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
A wintery landscape
A winter landscape in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin
A winter landscape in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin
A wintery landscape

A winter landscape in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

A winter landscape in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

A wintery landscape of snow-covered grass and trees on a late morning in November in Kewaunee County in northeast Wisconsin.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
A wintery landscape

A winter landscape in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

A winter landscape in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

A wintery landscape of snow-covered grass and trees on a late morning in November in Kewaunee County in northeast Wisconsin.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Paper flyer hanging from door handle for a wall water advisory forecast study
Well water advisory forecast study sample collection door hanger
Well water advisory forecast study sample collection door hanger
Paper flyer hanging from door handle for a wall water advisory forecast study

Well water advisory forecast study sample collection door hanger

Well water advisory forecast study sample collection door hanger

Kewaunee Wisconsin well water advisory forecast study door hanger left after sample collection.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Paper flyer hanging from door handle for a wall water advisory forecast study

Well water advisory forecast study sample collection door hanger

Well water advisory forecast study sample collection door hanger

Kewaunee Wisconsin well water advisory forecast study door hanger left after sample collection.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Scientist in yellow jacket and green hat turning tap on side of house.
Collecting residential tap water sample in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin
Collecting residential tap water sample in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin
Scientist in yellow jacket and green hat turning tap on side of house.

Collecting residential tap water sample in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

Collecting residential tap water sample in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment team member Joel Stokdyk collects residential private well water sample for the well water advisory forecast study in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Scientist in yellow jacket and green hat turning tap on side of house.

Collecting residential tap water sample in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

Collecting residential tap water sample in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment team member Joel Stokdyk collects residential private well water sample for the well water advisory forecast study in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Three scientists collecting residential water well samples on sunny snowy day
LIDE team members collecting private water well samples in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin
LIDE team members collecting private water well samples in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin
Three scientists collecting residential water well samples on sunny snowy day

LIDE team members collecting private water well samples in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

LIDE team members collecting private water well samples in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

Team members from the USGS Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE) collecting private well water samples on a chilly November day in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin. Pictured from left to right Joel Stokdyk (USGS), Rachel Cook (USDA), Aaron Firnstahl (USGS). 

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Three scientists collecting residential water well samples on sunny snowy day

LIDE team members collecting private water well samples in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

LIDE team members collecting private water well samples in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin

Team members from the USGS Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE) collecting private well water samples on a chilly November day in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin. Pictured from left to right Joel Stokdyk (USGS), Rachel Cook (USDA), Aaron Firnstahl (USGS). 

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Two scientists standing in front of white van in front of residential garage
LIDE team members in front of field vehicle when traveling to collect private well water samples
LIDE team members in front of field vehicle when traveling to collect private well water samples
Two scientists standing in front of white van in front of residential garage

LIDE team members in front of field vehicle when traveling to collect private well water samples

LIDE team members in front of field vehicle when traveling to collect private well water samples

Joel Stokdyk (USGS) and Rachel Cook (USDA) from the USGS Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE) standing in front of field vehicle en route to collecting private well water samples on a chilly November day in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Two scientists standing in front of white van in front of residential garage

LIDE team members in front of field vehicle when traveling to collect private well water samples

LIDE team members in front of field vehicle when traveling to collect private well water samples

Joel Stokdyk (USGS) and Rachel Cook (USDA) from the USGS Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (LIDE) standing in front of field vehicle en route to collecting private well water samples on a chilly November day in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment
Filter Total Items: 24

Quantitative microbial risk assessment with microbial source tracking for enteric pathogens in southwest Wisconsin private wells Quantitative microbial risk assessment with microbial source tracking for enteric pathogens in southwest Wisconsin private wells

Private wells supply drinking water for many households, and their contamination by fecal microbes presents a risk of acute gastrointestinal illness (AGI). Risk is thought to vary by contaminating fecal source, but specific associations with fecal source are unknown for most private wells in the United States. This study characterizes AGI risk in Grant, Iowa, and Lafayette counties in...
Authors
Tucker R. Burch, Joel P. Stokdyk, Joe Heffron, Sarah A. Opelt, Aaron D. Firnstahl
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Detection of viral, bacterial, and protozoan pathogens and microbial source tracking markers in paired large- and small-volume water samples Detection of viral, bacterial, and protozoan pathogens and microbial source tracking markers in paired large- and small-volume water samples

When sampling for waterborne microbes, researchers may need to diverge from recommended sample volumes due to logistical constraints, novel targets, or challenging matrices, with little guidance about the potential impact on results. In field studies, we measured bacteria, viruses, and protozoa (15 quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays) in paired large- and small-volume samples...
Authors
Joe Heffron, Joel P. Stokdyk, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Rachel M. Cook, Claire E. Hruby, Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Groundwater surveillance of swine pathogens from private wells supplying swine farms in Iowa Groundwater surveillance of swine pathogens from private wells supplying swine farms in Iowa

Biosecurity practices are essential for maintaining pig health and productivity. Despite these measures, pathogen spread still occurs. Water is one of the largest daily inputs on swine farms by volume and is not routinely tested or disinfected before it is consumed by the animals [1-3], making it a poorly understood biosecurity risk. Groundwater from privately-owned wells is a common...
Authors
Gabrielle Doughan, Becca Walthart, Michele Moncrief, Elise Snezek, Kristin Skoland, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Phillip Gauger, Justin Brown, J. L. Bonnema, Mark A. Borchardt, Joe Heffron, Joel P. Stokdyk, Tucker R. Burch, Locke Karriker
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Sources and risk factors for nitrate, pathogens, and fecal contamination of private wells in rural southwestern Wisconsin, USA Sources and risk factors for nitrate, pathogens, and fecal contamination of private wells in rural southwestern Wisconsin, USA

Household well water can be degraded by contaminants from the land's surface, but private well owners lack means to protect the source water from neighboring disturbances. Rural residents of southwestern Wisconsin, USA, rely on private well water, and the combination of land use and fractured carbonate bedrock makes groundwater vulnerable to contamination. To identify the extent, sources...
Authors
Joel P. Stokdyk, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Kenneth Bradbury, Maureen A. Muldoon, Burney Kieke Jr., Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Laboratory assessment for recovery of porcine circovirus 2 and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus using two types of commercially available hollow-fiber ultrafilters Laboratory assessment for recovery of porcine circovirus 2 and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus using two types of commercially available hollow-fiber ultrafilters

Groundwater near swine farms is an uninvestigated reservoir for porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and porcine circoviruses (PCVs). Enteric microorganisms are often collected from groundwater via dead-end ultrafiltration, but recovery of PRRSV and PCV with this method has not been assessed. We recovered PRRSV2 and PCV2 by dead-end ultrafiltration followed by...
Authors
Aaron D. Firnstahl, Gabi Doughan, Sarah A. Opelt, Rachel M. Cook, Joseph Heffron, Karen Krueger, Mark A. Borchardt, Locke Karriker, Joel P. Stokdyk, Tucker R. Burch
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Quantitative microbial risk assessment with microbial source tracking for mixed fecal sources contaminating recreational river waters, Iowa, USA Quantitative microbial risk assessment with microbial source tracking for mixed fecal sources contaminating recreational river waters, Iowa, USA

Fecal contamination of surface water can cause acute gastrointestinal illness (AGI) among recreators. AGI risk varies among human, livestock, and wildlife fecal sources, but the prevalence of individual sources is unknown for most recreational sites. We estimated AGI risk for six sites near Des Moines, Iowa, using quantitative microbial risk assessment combined with microbial source...
Authors
Tucker R. Burch, Joel P. Stokdyk, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Sarah A. Opelt, Rachel M. Cook, Joe Heffron, Amanda Brown, Claire E. Hruby, Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Two risk assessments: Evaluating the use of indicator HF183 Bacteroides versus pathogen measurements for modelling recreational illness risks in an urban watershed Two risk assessments: Evaluating the use of indicator HF183 Bacteroides versus pathogen measurements for modelling recreational illness risks in an urban watershed

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance of HF183 Bacteroides for estimating pathogen exposures during recreational water activities. We compared the use of Bacteroides-based exposure assessment to exposure assessment that relied on pathogen measurements. We considered two types of recreational water sites: those impacted by combined sewer overflows (CSOs) and those not...
Authors
K Skiendzielewski, Tucker R. Burch, Joel P. Stokdyk, Shannon McGinnis, S McLoughlin, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Sandy Spencer, Mark A. Borchardt, Heather M. Murphy
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Des Moines water trails: Health risk from waterborne pathogens during recreational water use Des Moines water trails: Health risk from waterborne pathogens during recreational water use

No abstract available.
Authors
Tucker R. Burch, Joel P. Stokdyk, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Sarah A. Opelt, Rachel M. Cook, Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Microbial source tracking and land use associations for antibiotic resistance genes in private wells influenced by human and livestock fecal sources Microbial source tracking and land use associations for antibiotic resistance genes in private wells influenced by human and livestock fecal sources

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing public health problem that requires an integrated approach among human, agricultural, and environmental sectors. However, few studies address all three components simultaneously. We investigated the occurrence of five antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and the class 1 integron gene (intI1) in private wells drawing water from a vulnerable aquifer...
Authors
Tucker R. Burch, Joel P. Stokdyk, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Burney Kieke Jr., Rachel M. Cook, Sarah A. Opelt, Sue Spencer, Lisa Durso, Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Assessing private well contamination in Grant, Iowa, and Lafayette Counties, Wisconsin: The southwest Wisconsin groundwater and geology study Assessing private well contamination in Grant, Iowa, and Lafayette Counties, Wisconsin: The southwest Wisconsin groundwater and geology study

Rural residents of Grant, Iowa, and Lafayette Counties in Wisconsin rely on private wells for their water. Contaminants like nitrate and bacteria from septic systems, fertilizer, and manure can contaminate the groundwater that residents use. Groundwater is vulnerable to contamination where the soil layer is thin and the bedrock is fractured, which is the case for much of the study region...
Authors
Joel P. Stokdyk, Mark A. Borchardt, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Ken Bradbury, Moe Muldoon, Burney A Kieke
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Statewide quantitative microbial risk assessment for waterborne viruses, bacteria, and protozoa in public water supply wells in Minnesota Statewide quantitative microbial risk assessment for waterborne viruses, bacteria, and protozoa in public water supply wells in Minnesota

Infection risk from waterborne pathogens can be estimated via quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) and forms an important consideration in the management of public groundwater systems. However, few groundwater QMRAs use site-specific hazard identification and exposure assessment, so prevailing risks in these systems remain poorly defined. We estimated the infection risk for 9...
Authors
Tucker R. Burch, Joel P. Stokdyk, Nancy Rice, Anita C. Anderson, James F. Walsh, Sue Spencer, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment

Fate and seasonality of antimicrobial resistance genes during full-scale anaerobic digestion of cattle manure across seven livestock production facilities Fate and seasonality of antimicrobial resistance genes during full-scale anaerobic digestion of cattle manure across seven livestock production facilities

Anaerobic digestion has been suggested as an intervention to attenuate antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in livestock manure but supporting data have typically been collected at laboratory scale. Few studies have quantified ARG fate during full-scale digestion of livestock manure. We sampled untreated manure and digestate from seven full-scale mesophilic dairy manure digesters to assess...
Authors
Tucker R. Burch, Aaron D. Firnstahl, Susan K. Spencer, Rebecca A. Larson, Mark A. Borchardt
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Collaborative USGS study informs the development of water recreation sites by providing water quality data and health risk research - Iowa Public Radio feature

Collaborative USGS study informs the development of water recreation sites by providing water quality data and health risk research - Iowa Public Radio feature

Scientists at Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment are collaborating with Polk County Conservation in central Iowa to estimate the...

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Launch of Northeast Wisconsin Well Water Advisory Forecast Study

Launch of Northeast Wisconsin Well Water Advisory Forecast Study

The Laboratory for Infectious Disease and the Environment (usgs.gov/LIDE) recently launched the Well Water Advisory Forecast study in Northeast...

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