Evaluation of Spring Flow, Bacterial Contamination, and Distribution of Fresh Water Resources in the Vicinity of

The purpose of this study was to gain a better understanding of fresh water springs used as the primary source of potable water in rural Haiti. Field data was collected during the summer of 2008 near Verrettes, Haiti, approximately 120 km north of Port au Prince. GPS locations of 29 springs were recorded within the 87 sq km study area. Two water samples at each spring were taken for bacterial analysis: one sample was submitted to a local hospital and a duplicate sample was cultured using Coliscan© Easygel © Kits. Both capped and uncapped springs were sampled to determine whether capping improves water quality. Field water quality parameters and flow volume were recorded at each spring to determine possible correlations with the presence of E-coli and total coliform. Water questionnaires were conducted using Haitian interpreters, regarding household water use, health, and public perception of the water