Evaluate the hydro-geochemical characteristics of Selamko farm reservoir water quality and its potential for multipurpose uses in Debre Tabor, Ethiopia using GIS-based water quality indices

Abstract

Surface water pollution is a global problem and has been evident for a long period of time. Hence, the aim of the study was to evaluate the hydro-geochemical characteristics of Selamko farm reservoir water quality and its suitability for multipurpose uses using GIS-based water quality indices. The water sampling sites and parameters were selected systematically based on the land use, land cover, and anthropogenic activities around Selamko reservoir watershed in Debre Tabor, Ethiopia. Water samples were collected from 11 sampling stations from July 2019 to March 2020 using the composite sampling method and examined using standard procedures. The suitability of the reservoir's water quality for multipurpose use was investigated using drinking and irrigation water quality indices, and other tools. The spatial distribution maps of water quality parameters were prepared using the kriging method in ArcGIS 10.5. The results of the geospatial analysis indicated that the reservoir water quality parameters had spatial variation, which was caused by industrial and household wastewater inflow across the reservoir's watershed. Based on WHO and ES standards, the computed drinking water quality index results revealed that 81.81% and 18.18% of the reservoir's water quality fall into the poor to very poor classes, which indicates that the water in the reservoir is not fit for drinking. However, a Wilcox diagram, irrigation indices, and USEPA regulations revealed that the reservoir water quality is found to be safe and suitable for irrigation, fishing, and livestock purposes. The study concluded that Selamko reservoir's water quality is suitable for irrigation, fishing, and livestock watering with proper management accordingly.