Preliminary Analysis of the Water Quality Status in an Urban Mediterranean River

Abstract

Recreational use of urban rivers is becoming popular since rivers may act as amenity corridors with the potential for exhibition, recreation, leisure, relaxation and retreat. However, several point and non-point pollution sources contribute to the degradation of urban rivers’ water quality, thereby impeding their beneficial uses and amenities. The physicochemical and microbiological quality of a Greek urban river (Kifisos–Athens) was analyzed over a period of 12 months. A sampling campaign was implemented, collecting monthly data from five sites. Spearman’s analysis showed significant correlation of the Hellenic Water Quality Index with specific nutrients. The total physicochemical status of all sampling stations was characterized as poor or bad. The annual average concentration of Escherichia coli (E. coli) was extremely high in four sites out of five, ranging from 16,822 to 26,780 cfu/100 mL. Bacteriological quality was unacceptable, as the study demonstrated the widespread occurrence of E. coli and low-quality physiochemical conditions. The spatiotemporal distribution of pollution levels revealed hotspots to be monitored further via automatic monitoring stations. A series of management and restoration measures, including tracing the exact pollution routes, should be initiated to minimize pollution pressures and establish the good ecological status of an important Mediterranean river.