Evaluating urban surface water quality in Luton

Tahmina Ajmal,David M Rawson,Tochukwu Kene Anyachebelu,Marc Conrad

doi:10.1007/s10661-019-7264-z

Tahmina Ajmal, David M Rawson + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10661-019-7264-z

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Abstract

Using a single numerical value to indicate the quality of water, a so-called Water Quality Index (WQI) is a well-established way of rating the overall water quality status of a given water body. During the last few years, researchers in the water sector have developed different such indices to address their specific needs. In this study, we attempt to obtain a WQI formula suited for evaluating the water quality of the River Lea. We have selected four different sites on the River Lea and explore the possibility of monitoring using a minimum number of parameters only. The results obtained are very encouraging and provide a strong indication that only three parameters are enough to indicate water quality of a water body.

Highlights

MethodsWe are focussing on the river Lea near Luton that forms an essential part of the historic River Lea that joins the River Thames near Bow
A water quality index (WQI) is a very useful tool that allows water researchers to get quantitative indication of water quality
We present the analysis of data from a number of different sites on the river Lea in Luton in an attempt to obtain a suitable WQI calculation method for Luton Lea

Summary

Methods

We are focussing on the river Lea near Luton that forms an essential part of the historic River Lea that joins the River Thames near Bow. The geology of the study area consists of Chalk (from surrounding Chilterns) within the Lambeth Group along the northeast and southwest sides of Luton and Glaciofluvial deposits along the river. This underlying geology creates a highly variable environment for possible runoff infiltration and related groundwater flooding. The surrounding area is mainly urban, and the water quality is affected by different factors including navigation, abstraction, misconnections and water runoff from roads and nearby areas. Additional urban growth in the Luton area has put in cumulative pressures on water resources in the area, and as a result the water quality in the area has a poor ecological and chemical status (Environment Agency 2015)

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Discussion

Conclusion