Quality composition and irrigation suitability of various surface water and groundwater sources at Matahara Plain

Abstract

This study highlights the physicochemical compositions of different water sources available at Matahara Plain and evaluates their suitability for irrigation purpose. Various surfaceand ground-water samples were collected and then analysed for important major physicochemical quality parameters (pH, EC, cations and anions) following standard procedures. Other chemical indices were derived from the measured quality parameters. The quality rating for each water type was evaluated against the recommended threshold level for irrigation. Each water sources were rated for irrigation suitability following standard Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) guidelines and others. Overall, the findings emphasize the need to avoid the use of poor quality water for irrigation.