An Assessment of Underground Water Quality for Irrigation and Drinking in Federal University of Kashere, Gombe State, Nigeria.
Abstract
The study was carried out to assess the ground water quality for irrigation and drinking in Federal University of Kashere, Gombe State, Nigeria. Eleven underground water samples were collected in the study area; both the physical and chemical properties were assessed. Data generated were subjected to descriptive statistics using Microsoft Excel. The result indicated that the values of temperature, turbidity, colour and odour were within the recommended limits of World Health Organization and Food and Agricultural Organization . Similarly, for the Chemical properties of the water samples such as pH, E.C, R.S.C, Na, Ca, Mg, K,T.D.S, Cl-, Na, NH and TH, the result indicated that the water samples were predominantly within the recommended values which were safe for irrigation and drinking purposes. Importantly, for the heavy metals such as Pb, Cu and Mn, results indicated that the values observed were also good and within the permissible limits set by WHO, FAO and the United State Environmental Protection Agency standards. However, the values of Fe in many sampled areas were found to be above the permissible limit set by WHO and USEPA. The high concentration of Fe in the underground water could be the reason for the reddish-brown coloration observed in most of the borehole facilities like pipe, tanks and reservoirs. It was also observed that the Cr and Zn contents in the water samples were far above the permissible limit set by WHO and USEPA. Therefore, the water samples in some borehole within the University may not be totally safe for irrigation and drinking as there is a threat for heavy metal contamination. Therefore, addressing these issues through judicious use of agrochemicals, improved sanitation, regular monitoring and targeted interventions are necessary for the overall safety and wellbeing of the University Community. Key Words: Underground water quality, Irrigation and Drinking
Keywords
Underground water qualityIrrigation and Drinking
References
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