The impact of land use on water quality using geospatial approach (a case study in Way Kuripan River watershed)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of various land use types on the water quality within the Way Kuripan River Watershed based on the water quality monitoring data and land use data in three months. Water samples were taken from 12 sample points to analyses the Water Quality Index (WQI) based on six parameters including Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), pH, Total Suspended Solid (TSS) and Ammoniac-Nitrogen (NH3-N). The water quality was analyzed based on the WQI calculation method developed by the Malaysian Department of Environment (DOE). Geospatial analysis in Geographical Information System (GIS) helps in analyzing the spatial relationship between various land use type and the water quality in the Way Kuripan River. The spatial overlay of the water quality and the land use data illustrated its spatial relationship. The results described that in general, the water quality in the watershed had been polluted (WQI = 46.17). It was classified as water class of number IV. As a result, the Way Kuripan River was doubtful for public water supply and water contact. The results of this study could provide important scientific reference for the local land use optimization and water pollution control.