Background

"Emerging" contaminants and pesticides found in Oklahoma's streams and lakes include caffeine, antibiotics, plasticizers, hormones and hormone derivatives, human health and beauty products, herbicides, and insecticides.  Active research into the potential cause and effect relationships of these pollutants with the environment has yielded disturbing results regarding their toxicity and carcinogenic effects.  In addition, this research is illuminating more details regarding processes that involve more conventional pollutants like bacteria, phosphates, nitrates, and heavy metals.  The identification of emerging contaminants and interpreting results of their detection may provide information necessary for fair rules affecting agriculture and watershed management in general.  Furthermore, additional research is needed for improved interpretation of microbial source tracking and the distribution of bacterial species which could have significant impact on future water quality standards affecting agriculture throughout the state.

For more information contact Jim Criswell at 405-744-5531

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