This research is aimed at predicting effect of refuse dump on the water quality of Otamiri River which served for domestic uses among the rural inhabitants. Anthropogenic activities that goes on at its bank that serve as non-point source have raised much concern about the water quality of the river. Water samples were collected from nine (9) spatially referenced points within the river using the conventional WHO (2004) methods [1] and analyzed in line with APHA standard procedures for testing water in order to evaluate the water quality status of Otamiri River. Spatial variations in biological and physicochemical parameter were observed across the sampling locations. Maximum levels of pH and colour were recorded in sampling Location 1 (5.7 and 17.5Pcu respectively). Maximum levels of EC, Nitrate, Sulphate, TDS, TSS and TS were recorded in sampling locations 3 with the average value (79 , 5.1225 mg/l N0- 3 2.46mg/L, 52mg/L, 161mg/L and 109mg/L respectively). Maximum levels of COD in Location 2 (684mg/L). Maximum levels of Turbidity, , , DO and (8.34NTU, 0.443 mg/L, 2.22 mg/l, 15.18 mg/L and 12.21 mg/L respectively) were recorded in Location 5. The data analysis tool in Microsoft Excel was used to explore and study the interrelationship between the water quality index as dependent variable and some conservative parameters like (pH, EC, Tur, N0-3, TH, TDS, , , DO, and COD) as independent variables. Regression models were developed and they will help in determining the pollution concentration at any point within the river. As constant dumping of refuse at the site has increased the concentration of pollutants in the river water, even though some remain within established standards, water from Otamiri River requires elaborate treatment before it could be suitable for domestic purposes. Institutional and social familiarities were identified as cause of poor waste disposal problem
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