The impact of ecotourism on the water quality in sedim river, kedah, malaysia

Abstract

This study was aims to evaluate the impact of ecotourism on the water quality in the Sedim River Recreation Centre, Kulim Kedah, Malaysia. Ecotourism activity development, such as chalet construction, homestay, recreation for picnics, kayaking and proper disposal of solid wastes in the area, will affect the quality of Sedim River. The period of this study was conducted between February to April 2018, with six time water sampling during this period. Sample water quality was then analysed using the Water Quality Index (WQI) in situ and in the laboratory, as set by the Malaysian Department of Environment. Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Ammonia Nitrogen (NH3N), pH and Suspended Solid (SS) were used as water quality parameters. The findings show that the value of WQI Sedim River is in Class I and II, with WQI=92.3 as an average value that safe for raw water supply, suitable for fish rearing and water activities such as water rafting and kayaking. This shows that the unpolluted and clean status of the Sedim River water allows ecotourism activities to go further and at the same time can attract foreign tourists to come. Although, management will have to take more precise measurements of the water and plan for any development activities to be undertaken in the future to maintain the clean condition status of the Sedim River water quality.