Determination of environmentally relevant water quality parameters in Serefiye Dam-Turkey

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to observe the monthly and annual changes in water samples through physicochemical methods, to determine the water quality properties, to investigate the pollution problems, to determine the suitability level in terms of aquatic life, and to classify the water quality in accordance with the SWQMR criteria. This study was carried out through monthly sampling between April 2011 and March 2014 in 3 stations at Serefiye Dam, which is a "Class B" dam according to the RAMSAR criteria. The samples were immediately taken to the laboratories for analyses. Station 1 is at the entrance point of Egridere into the dam, 2nd point is at western side of the dam (Serefiye town), and the Station 3 is located at the center of the dam. The water quality in Serefiye dam, which is under protection within the scope of RAMSAR convention, was determined to be Class II according to SWQMR. In order to protect the water quality and to ensure the sustainability of aquatic life in this dam, it is required to make regular observations and to monitor the parameters affecting the water quality and aquatic life.