Phenotypic antibiotic resistance of Escherichia coli and E. coli O157 isolated from water, sediment and biofilms in an agricultural watershed in British Columbia

► Antibiotic resistant E. coli and E. coli O157 were prevalent in Elk Creek. ► Resistance was highest to tetracycline, ampicillin and streptomycin. ► Biofilm and sediment isolates were more likely to be resistant than water isolates. ► Some water quality variables (nutrients, temperature, DO and salinity) impact AMR. ► Biofilms and sediment are important reservoirs of AMR E. coli that could pose a risk to public health.