The research by Tyler Gerken, a former UH Hilo student, explored the presence of Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA, and fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) in soil across different land uses in the Hilo Bay watershed. Published in the Journal of Environmental Quality, the study found the highest levels of these bacteria in urban soils and the lowest in native forests. Gerken’s work, a part of his undergraduate thesis, aims to inform management practices to reduce health risks from pathogens in recreational waters, especially following storms. The research highlighted the correlation between soil bacterial levels and properties like pH and moisture. Gerken, currently with FEMA, aspires to enhance environmental health in Hawaii.
