Analysis of urban water quality trends for effective reservoir sedimentation management in Cameron Highland

Abstract

Water quality in Cameron Highlands has significantly diminished due to agricultural activities. This research aims to analyse water quality in the urban and agricultural area by conducting water sampling and in situ analysis. Water quality index (WQI), total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) were calculated and compared among different areas. Results for WQI shows that water quality at W7 deteriorates at class IV (33.5) compared to class II for another agriculture area. Meanwhile, another results showed that the WQ_02_AG transported significantly higher (14.9 mg/L) loads of TN than the urban area, but the phosphorus load was considerably lower (1.58 mg/L). Results for the urban area are slightly polluted and unsuitable for recreational purpose. In agricultural areas, water quality deteriorates due to sediment transport and nutrient infusion caused by agricultural activities. Therefore, powerful agricultural management practices for effective reservoir sedimentation management as one of the non-structural measures are recommended. Copyright © 2019 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.