Temporal and spatial zoning of qualitative and toxic pollution along the protected Mazandaran River

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Department of Water, Wastewater and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Civil, Water and Environmental Engineering, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.

10.22059/jwim.2025.382749.1183

Abstract

This research investigates the water quality of the Haraz River, focusing on the impact of human activities and agriculture on water quality parameters. The main objective of this study is to assess the changes in water quality parameters and identify the factors influencing these changes using the NSFWQI index and toxicity, along with statistical analyses. This assessment is conducted to provide strategies for better management of water resources and reduction of pollution. In this study, sampling was conducted from 12 stations along the Haraz River at four different time periods. Parameters such as BOD, nitrate, phosphate, turbidity, and fecal coliform were measured. Data analysis was performed using ArcGIS software and the NSFWQI index. Additionally, agricultural pesticides were tested during two sampling periods. The results indicated that human and agricultural activities lead to increased BOD and fecal coliform. The most significant changes were observed at the downstream stations, where population density and the influx of industrial and agricultural effluents are higher. The concentration of agricultural pesticides was within the range of global standards. The high correlation of nitrate and phosphate parameters with BOD and turbidity indicates a direct impact of these parameters on each other. Human activities have a significant impact on the water quality of the Haraz River, and proper management of resources and reduction of pollution are essential for maintaining water quality. This study shows that the best water quality was observed in autumn, while the lowest quality was noted in spring. According to studies conducted in other protected rivers of Mazandaran province, it is generally clear that water quality decreases from upstream to downstream, and the reason for this is mainly human activity, including urban and industrial wastewater, and agriculture and animal husbandry in downstream areas.

Keywords

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References

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Water and Irrigation Management
Volume 15, Issue 1
May 2025
Pages 109-130

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