Human and veterinary pharmaceutical compounds in the environment have received increased attention in recent years. These medicines are used for the therapeutic treatment of infectious diseases in humans and for treating and protecting the health of animals. In addition, veterinary antibiotics are used to promote growth and feed efficiency in a range of animals. A fraction of these drugs are metabolized into inactive compounds, but a significant amount is excreted as active metabolites.

Antibiotics have been detected in the aquatic environment. The immediate concern involving the presence of these antibiotics is the potential toxicity of these compounds to aquatic organisms and humans through drinking water. In addition, there is growing concern the release of antibiotics into the environment contributes to the emergence of disease-causing bacteria that are resistant to even high doses of these drugs.

Colorado State University and the Northern Plains and Mountains Region are involved in multiple research and extension projects involving antibiotics and water quality. We are also committed to future work in this arena that will decrease the impact of livestock antibiotic use on a regional and national water quality. Please visit the links below:

Half Day Workshop on Antibiotics: