AWWA PATH56516

Local adaptation of the Farnham approach to managing recreational waters is readily achieved given the sound historical data for Sydney and a clear understanding of the intent of the sanitary survey component. Flexibility in interpreting what is important for your local conditions is essential, hence the rather too general descriptions in the Farnham report are replaced with more ridged values for stormwater assessment. A user-friendly format for bather risk management, based on key environmental predictors of faecal pollution (such as rainfall, wind direction and tide) can in part replace regular and costly microbiological testing, to provide estimates in real time and allow immediate control measures, such as signage or temporary beach closures. Ongoing testing resources can then be directed to understanding the source(s) of faecal contamination, comparing enterococci/enteric virus survival under warm Australian conditions and spot checks for recalibration of environmental factors. Includes 20 references, tables.