1. Scope of Services The City of Tulsa (“COT”) is requesting Bids for Analytical Services Microbial Source Tracking (MST) analysis. The analysis will be used primarily for TMDL/watershed characterization bacterial source tracking. The secondary use shall be for identification of bacterial sources for Zink lake as needed. Samples shall be obtained at the direction of the COT. This is not a request for a comprehensive study of bacterial sources within the COT. It is the intent during the agreement period, to secure services to conduct all DNA analysis for surface water samples to allow the COT to accurately identify the host of the bacteria. Some of the important hosts of bacteria that can be identified for this project are human (HF183), dog (BacCan UCD), general bird (GFD), goose, ruminant, Horse (HoF597F) and beaver. This is not an exhaustive list as new sources and methods of analysis are being developed and these new sources will also need to be considered when they are available. The City of Tulsa’s Stormwater Maintenance and Operations Division is required by its OPDES Permit #OKS000201 (MS4 Discharge Permit) to not only monitor the quality of Tulsa’s stormwater runoff, but to also act to eliminate potential pollution sources. High bacteria levels in our streams are among the most common pollutants present. These bacteria concentrations have led to additional permit requirements that mandates identification and elimination of these pollutant sources. Identifying sources of bacteria pollution is challenging and few laboratories have the capabilities to identify sources. DNA Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) analytical methods are needed to identify and help to remove potential bacteria sources. Results may be utilized for reporting purposes to the public, City of Tulsa staff, ODEQ, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
