Helping Small-Scale and Socially Disadvantaged Growers in Improving Microbial Quality of Irrigation Water in Kentucky

Water plays a critical role in the growth and management of fresh produce, being a vital resource and a potential vector for pathogens. To address these concerns, guidelines for the microbiological quality of treated wastewater, recreational, irrigation, and drinking water have been established worldwide. With multiple outbreaks linked to Escherichia coli (E. coli) contamination, monitoring and improving water quality standards have become essential, especially for small-scale and limited-resource farmers. The Food Safety and Modernization Act (FSMA, 2014) in the United States was introduced to regulate microbiological safety of produce, focusing on irrigation water. Approximately 77% of farmers in Kentucky are small farmers, of which, 4.2% supply directly to consumers through various avenues, accounting for approximately USD 24 million a year. This study examined the microbial quality of irrigation water used in Kentucky, focusing on the presence and number of coliform bacteria and E. coli. The report covers findings from a year-long program providing free microbial water quality testing to producers (n = 90), analyzing groundwater and surface water samples (n = 296). Results indicate surface water showing a significantly higher risk of exceeding FSMA thresholds. The findings emphasize the need for continued outreach, education, and accessible testing resources to support compliance with evolving Produce Safety Rule regulations, especially among small-scale producers.