Evaluation of Physiochemical Factors in Saffia Nature Reserve, Southern Iraqi Marshes, using Geographic Information System Techniques

Abstract

This survey was conducted during four seasons in nine stations representing the Saffia Nature Reserve (SNR) in Al-Hawizeh marsh, southern Iraq, which has 44 km . Physical and chemical parameters were monitored; including natural water quality parameters such 2 as water temperature, pH, electric conductivity and dissolved oxygen in addition to levels of nutrients from September 2019 to August 2020. The current study discussed the possible use of spatial analysis techniques to characterize the temporal and spatial distribution of water prediction properties employing geographic information systems (GIS) to determine water quality parameters at SNR. In general, all parameters are within the acceptable limit of freshwater for aquatic life except electric conductivity. The current survey could serve as a basis for more monitoring and restoration of the marshland environment. The use of a geographic information system in evaluating the water quality depends on the laboratory values of water samples and spatial analysis of these properties employing inverse interpolation of the weighted distance. It was possible to map water quality indicators along the study area for nine sites and six water quality indicators. The production of water quality maps will improve monitoring and enforcement of standards and regulations for better management and control. This study suggested continuous monitoring of the physical and chemical characteristics of water marshes and water bodies, and the study of factors affecting the increase in the concentration of elements and nutrients and comparing them with environmental determinants.