Title: Evaluation of Surface Water Quality in Ugwere-Boule, Khana Local Government Area, Nigeria
Authors: Arimieari, L. W., Jumbo, B. E. T.
Volume: 8
Issue: 8
Pages: 17-27
Publication Date: 2024/08/28
Abstract:
The disastrous effects of pollution on the environment have been a major concern for industrial places globally, despite the great economic benefits of industrial activity. The nature and severity of water pollution are often closely associated with human activity, which can be quantified by the type and intensity of land use in the water's source locations. This study assessed the surface water quality in Ugwere-Boule, Khana Local Government Area, Rivers State with nine (9) sampling points (Upstream - A, B, and C; Midstream - D, E and F; and Downstream - G, H, and I) with three duplicates each made up the design, which resulted in a total of 27 points. Water samples were collected at nine different points along the river, with a distance of 0, 10, and 20 meters at each location. The concentrations of ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), suspended solids (SS), biological oxygen demand (BOD5), and dissolved oxygen (DO) were all measured in accordance with their respective standards. On the other hand, the surface water quality was determined using the river pollution index (RPI) approach, and the pollution index integral value (S) was utilized to compare the parameters' standards. In order to estimate DO, the Streeter-Phelps model was also employed. All levels, with the exception of ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), were within the WHO recommended range for dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD5), and suspended solids (SS) according to the research's findings. The study also used the Rivers Pollution Index (RPI) and Integral value (S) to show that the river was contaminated, except at sample location I. Additionally, the model prediction obtained in this investigation (r2 = 0.9705) for a high coefficient of determination can be categorized as almost good. These demonstrate the model's ability to predict DO in surface water in Ugwere-Boule.