This study performed a comprehensive assessment of water quality in four major tributaries - Yeongicheon, Samsungcheon, Bangchukcheon, and Jecheon - in Sejong Special Self-Governing City. The aim was to guide the development of effective river management policies and improve water quality for the first time. Monthly data from the city's water quality monitoring system, from January 2022 to June 2024, were analyzed. The study evaluated 11 water quality parameters. Additionally, we compared BOD and TOC, analyzed correlations between nutrient levels and organic pollutants, performed principal component analysis, and calculated a water quality index, and applied the Monthly Water Quality Index methodology. The results showed that the average water quality index ratings for all four rivers were classified as “Excellent,” aligning with trends observed in living environment standards. However, ratings derived from living environment standards showed greater variability than those from the water quality index, indicating the necessity for a combined water quality index to enhance river management strategies. Seasonal analysis revealed a decline in water quality during the rainy season, emphasizing the need for targeted management during this period. Among the tributaries, Yeongicheon, a rural stream, showed a greater need for nutrient management than the other urban streams, highlighting the importance of controlling non-point source pollution in its vicinity for comprehensive water quality improvement. The water quality demonstrated a tendency to decline during the rainy season, underscoring the necessity for enhanced water quality management during this period. Among the tributaries, Yeongicheon, a rural stream, exhibited a heightened requirement for nutrient management compared to the remaining three urban streams, indicating that effective control of non-point source pollution in the surrounding areas is essential for the comprehensive water quality management of these tributaries. In addition, the use of Monthly Water Quality Index developed in this study is recommended to calculate the water quality index with monthly water quality data.
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