News

Rapid method rollout underway

July 14, 2010

The SCCWRP Commission’s Rapid Methods Task Force met on June 29 and agreed to move forward with a demonstration project this summer from July 6 to August 31. Throughout this period, a rapid molecular method for Enterococcus (quantitative polymerase chain reaction or QPCR) will be used side-by-side with traditional fecal indicator bacteria quantification methods for monitoring at select beach sites in Orange County. This is the first application in the country using data from rapid molecular methods to make same-day beach warning and closure decisions. As part of the demonstration, electronic signs will be installed at Newport Pier and Huntington, Doheny, and Big Corona State Beaches to communicate the latest data on potential health risks to beach visitors. For more information, check out the video from KTLA news, fact sheet, or SCCWRP’s website.