Peat water quality in Block C Pulang Pisau Regency, Central Kalimantan

Abstract

The increasing need for agricultural land has led to a shift in the cultivation of vegetation on peatland especially food crops. Agricultural activities on peatland require careful planning, appropriate technology application, and proper management due to the marginal and the fragile peatland ecosystem. Research and development are needed to evaluate the carrying capacity of environmental impacts on peatland use. This study aimed to obtain information on the water quality of peat domes, primary canals, and secondary canals of Block C, Pulang Pisau Regency. The study area is now mostly used for agricultural activities. The analysis was carried out in a descriptive qualitative manner based on water parameter testing results to assess the water quality of peat domes, primary canals, and secondary canals of each type of peatland use in Buntoi, Garung, and Kanamit Barat Village. The results indicated that five chemical parameters exceeded the water quality criteria for Class II PP No. 22/2021 namely BOD, COD, free chlorine, zinc, and lead in Buntoi. Further, in Garung, six chemical parameters exceeded the water quality criteria: DO, BOD, COD, free chlorine, lead, and copper. Meanwhile, in Kanamit Barat Village, seven chemical parameters exceeded the criteria: DO, BOD, COD, free chlorine, zinc, lead, and copper. Based on this research, therefore, agricultural activities on this peatland area should consider the natural characteristics of peat water and the selection of suitable plants.