The Water Quality Characteristics and Quality Status of Bengkulu River and Nelas River, Bengkulu Province: Conditions for the Last Six Years

Abstract

The existence of extractive activities around the river has a negative impact on the quality of river water. This study aims to provide an overview of water quality characteristics and water quality status of Bengkulu River and Nelas River in Bengkulu Province. The data used is river quality monitoring conducted by the Environment and Forestry Service of Bengkulu Province from 2014 to 2019. Measurements are carried out twice a year representing, the dry season (March to June) and the rainy season (September to December). The observation stations representing upstream, middle and downstream of rivers conditions. The parameters observed were physical, chemical, and biological parameters. The water quality status is determined using the Storet Index. The results show that both rivers have Storet Index >-31. It means that these river water are heavily polluted. Parameters that have exceeded the water quality standard are TSS, DO, BOD, COD, Fe, Mn, Cu, and total coliform. The river water quality parameters, especially heavy metals, may be caused by open land being washed and carried into the river body. The existence of population and animal activities as well as industrial waste outlets at upstream also affect the decline of river water quality.