Affiliation(s)
1. Department of Forestry, College of Agriculture and Related Sciences, Forester, Faculty of Forestry of University of Southeastern Philippines, Apokon, Tagum City, Davao del Norte 8100, Philippines
2. Department of Forestry, College of Arts and Sciences Education, Forester, Faculty of Forestry of University of Mindanao, Davao City, Davao del Sur 8000, Philippines
3. Department of Language Discipline, College of Arts and Sciences Education, Linguist, Faculty of Language of University of Mindanao, Davao City, Davao del Sur 8000, Philippines
ABSTRACT
Water and its importance cannot be understated. Its greatest value lies in its ability and capacity to provide biological and environmental services. Water quality is an essential parameter to be studied when the overall focus is sustainable development keeping mankind at a focal point. The study assessed the water quality and its suitability for drinking purposes in most areas of Padada Watershed. In this study, nine identified sampling points were analyzed for different physico-chemical parameters such as turbidity, BOD (Biological Oxygen Demand), TSS (Total Solid Suspended), fecal coliform, pH, temperature, DO (Dissolved Oxygen), and SC (Specific Conductivity). Results found turbidity range from 0.74-19.7 NTU; BOD range from 0.04-2.2 mg/L; TSS range from 1-411 mg/L; fecal coliform range from < 1.8-160,000 MPN/100mL. The temperature value ranges from 24.8-31.9 °C; pH value ranges from 7.05-7.92; SC ranges from 119.7-551 µS/cm while DO range from 4.87-8.14 mg/L. Moreover, the results revealed that most sampling sites exceeded the permissible limits. The highest concentration of fecal coliform indicates contamination which may cause possible human health infection. Thus, the water of Padada River Watershed is not potable for drinking and it is recommended to take beneficial steps to prevent adverse health effects to the community.
KEYWORDS
Water quality, physico-chemical, fecal coliform, turbidity, Padada Watershed.
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