A preliminary survey on the water quality of Dickinson Bayou, Texas.

A study was done to obtain baseline data for research on the water quality of Dickinson Bayou (Texas, USA). Samples were collected at 3 sites over a 2 month period and analyzed for nitrite, nitrate, Pi, pH, temperature, chemical O2 demand, biochemical O2 demand, dissolved coliform MPN (most probable number), fecal colifom MPN and presence of Salmonella and Shigella. Results indicate pollution by domestic sewage, land runoff and industrial wastes. Data gathered indicates the need of further study including measurement of additional parameters (such as total Kjeldahl N) before an evaluation of water quality is possible.