Grazing cattle deposit feces on the landscape that can contain Escherichia coli (E. coli), which can then be transported to water sources and contaminate drinking water supplies. The survival of E. coli in fecal pats depends on several factors, and this experiment determines the effects of different levels of shading (0, 40, 80, and 100%) on E. coli survival over a 45-day period, during summer in British Columbia. Escherichia coli survived in cattle feces without shading for 45 days, however, increased shading increased the survival of E. coli populations and possibly the risk of water contamination. However, this experiment did not determine the ability of E. coli to be transported to water sources or the location of fecal pats in relation to water sources. Weather conditions must be taken into account when determining water contamination risks. From a management perspective, E. coli in fecal pats under forested situations would survive longer than in open grasslands due to shading, and any possible contamination by E. coli would be greatest within 7 days of removing cattle from a riparian area or pasture.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.