Rainwater catchment water quality in Micronesia

Rainwater catchment systems (RWCS) in Micronesia were sampled to assess their bacteriological water quality and to determine which RWCS characteristics had a significant impact on water quality. Total and fecal coliform bacteria tests were used to evaluate 203 catchments on 10 islands. Fifty-seven percent of the RWCS had no fecal coliform bacteria and 61% had fewer than 10 total coliform bacteria per 100 ml. Catchment characteristics were found to have a statistically significant effect on total coliform bacteria levels but they did not affect faecal coliform bacteria concentrations. Rainwater catchment systems were found to provide acceptable water in most cases but disinfection prior to consumption is still highly recommended.