Evaluation of the Ecological Impact of Human Settlement on the Water Quality of Lower Cross River, Nigeria

B J Oribhabor,O M Udoidiong,D F Udoh,B E Akpan

doi:10.1155/2013/840295

Abstract

The ecological impact of human settlement on the water quality of Lower Cross River, Nigeria was evaluated. The physical and chemical conditions of the river water were determined from January to August, 2011. Three stations comprising Itu in Akwa Ibom State with intense human activities (station 2), its upstream (without human settlement) at Cross River State (station 1) and the downstream (station 3) were sampled. The Parametric One Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) indicated that of the 17 physical and chemical parameters determined, only water level and COD were found to be significantly different () among stations. The spatial variations in the level of significant correlation of the physical and chemical parameters among the stations and the higher level of interrelationship in downstream station 2 and 3 than station 1 could be attributed to inputs resulting from human settlement. Comparison between some parameters with Standard Organization of Nigeria, and World Health Organization maximum permitted levels for drinking water indicated that the water was not polluted. However, the BOD and COD concentrations of greater than 2 mg/L and 20 mg/L respectively were indicative of pollution.

Highlights

The lower Cross River which originated from Cameroon is the main river in southeastern Nigeria and gives its name to Cross River State, Nigeria
The purpose of the present study is to provide baseline data on the water quality of Lower Cross River which is a freshwater system and tidal downstream by using physical and chemical characteristics, to determine the interrelationship between the characteristics, and to give the differences of these characteristics between upstream, station 2 with intense human activities, and downstream with a view to establish significant changes attributable to human settlement
The physical and chemical parameters of the Lower Cross River study stations are summarized in Table 1, using measures of central tendency and dispersion

Summary

Introduction

The lower Cross River which originated from Cameroon is the main river in southeastern Nigeria and gives its name to Cross River State, Nigeria. The river serves as the main source of water for domestic and agricultural purposes, source of shell and fin-fish for the major communities settling along its banks. Human settlements are recognized as ecological systems, in the sense that they are “habitat systems” for human populations, which may be directly comparable with “natural” ecosystems [1]. Safe, and adequate freshwater is vital to the survival of all living organisms and the smooth functioning of ecosystems, communities, and economics. Declining water quality has become a global issue of concern as the growth of human populations, expansion of industrial/agricultural activities, and terrible threats of climate changes alternate the hydrological cycle. Water quality issues are complex and diverse and are deserving of urgent attention and action [2]

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Conclusion