A simple methodology for water quality monitoring
Abstract
The Water Quality Monitoring (WQM) strategy utilises low-cost, portable instrumentation that can largely be used by non-specialist, technical staff. The strategy enables results, obtained using simple, field-kit techniques, to be readily understood, and their significance compared with national and international standards. The results are also available on the spot, so that those who take the measurements can assess their significance straight away and take any appropriate action immediately.
The report outlines a monitoring strategy that provides simple and relatively inexpensive water quality data with acceptable accuracy. It also describes fieldwork to test the WQM approach carried out in Pakistan on the River Ravi System near Lahore.
It identifies and describes the key water quality parameters likely to be included in a WQM programme. These include salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen, nitrates, nitrites, ammonia, phosphates, boron, chromium, heavy metals, faecal coliforms, pesticides and suspended sediments. It also reviews the field-kits that are available on the market to measure these parameters.
The recommendations and conclusions contain an assessment of the WQM methodology and lessons learned from the Lahore field-testing. Recommendations are made concerning:
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Demand for WQM
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Implementation of a WQM Methodology
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Strategies for using the WQM Methodology
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Need for further work
Citation
HR Wallingford, UK. 85 pp.
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