Water Quality and Microbiology

Optimized management and protection of water resources (both surface and groundwater) require consideration of water quality. The assessment of the qualitative status of water bodies—particularly in light of current legislative frameworks—is based on specific chemical and microbiological quality criteria, as well as standards tailored to the intended uses of these resources.

The objectives of this course unit are: (1) to be able to assess the chemical and microbiological quality of surface water or groundwater based on its intended use, within the context of current legislation, (2) understand the role of microorganisms in biogeochemical cycles and their impact on the fate of pollutants in water, (3) acquire a foundation in the most commonly used chemical and microbiological methods and analytical techniques, and finally (4) be able to integrate available hydrological, hydrogeological, hydrochemical, and microbiological data available for a hydrosystem in order to identify the various issues related to water resources (quality and quantity). The development of scientific critical thinking will be encouraged.

Required prerequisites*: basic knowledge of water chemistry and microbiology or the PAM1ECAD course unit (contamination of the aquatic environment)

Continuous, comprehensive assessment, including a written exam (2 hours) and an average of the grades on chemistry and microbiology lab reports.

1. Chemistry section:

- Types of pollution and health risks

- Quality criteria and pollution indicators

TD: Assessment of Watercourse Quality. Application to the Lez River.

Field Work: Measurement of physicochemical parameters and key indicators of the chemical quality of a watercourse (Lez River)

1. Microbiology Section:

• Microbiological Water Quality and Health Risks
• Fecal Contamination Indicators: Definition, Principles, and Limitations.
• Microbiological Water Quality Control and French Legislation
• Practical Training: Analysis of the microbiological quality of various types of water (surface water, groundwater, etc.)

• Microbial Ecotoxicology:  
• Biogeochemical cycles
• Interactions Between Microorganisms and Chemical Pollutants: 2 Case Studies:
• Acid mine drainage
• Arsenic in Aquifers in Southeast Asia