Physico-Chemical Parameters and Levels of Nutrients During Wet and Dry Seasons Along River Ewaso Narok, Laikipia County, Kenya

Abstract

River and surface water pollution is a growing problem especially in developing countries where population growth and urbanization are never adequately checked. Downstream most urban areas live huge communities of humans and animals who rely on surface water and rivers for survival. Literature indicates rising levels of pollution in rivers in Kenya. There are also reports of environmental degradation and water borne diseases in both humans and animals. This study assessed water quality by determining the levels of nitrates (NO3−) and phosphates (PO43−) besides physico-chemical parameters namely: Hydrogen ion concentration (pH), Temperature (T), Electrical Conductivity (Ce), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and Total Suspended Solids (TSS) along river Ewaso Narok, Laikipia County, Kenya, during wet and dry seasons. Water sample analysis for nutrients was done using UV-visible spectrophotometry whereas Physico-chemical Parameters were determined in situ using their individual probes. Seasonal changes were found to influence the levels of pollutants. Samples taken near urban settlements were found to contain higher concentrations of the pollutants.