Evaluation of water quality of the Qaraaoun Reservoir, Lebanon: suitability for multipurpose usage

Abstract

The increased demand on water resources in Lebanon as a result of: progressive urbanization, socio-economic growth, agricultural activities and development of industries is, according to the national authorities, a major critical factor by the year 2010. Political difficulties in earlier years imply a dearth of pertinent data. The objective of this study was to evaluate water quality of the Qaraaoun Reservoir of the Litani River and assess its feasibility for multi-purpose usage as one of the solutions to the aggravated water problems in Lebanon. Samples were collected from 18 sampling sites at several dates during the dry season. Parameters analysed were, pH, electrical conductivity, TDS, turbidity, alkalinity, Ca, Mg, TH, Cl-, SO4(2-), NH3, NO3(-), PO4(3-), Fe, Al, Na, Zn, Cr, Cu and As. The reported data were in compliance with WHO guidelines, USEPA regulation and EEC directives. Statistical analysis of the data defined three distinct environmental zones and water quality in the central, main zone satisfied most criteria. It is concluded that the reservoir water is fit for multipurpose uses, namely, drinking, domestic, recreational activities, irrigation, fisheries, livestock and industrial, and should be properly managed accordingly.