Physical and chemical parameters of selected river waters in Davao City

Abstract

The rapid increase in population, urbanization, and industrialization reduces the quality of Philippine waters, especially in densely populated areas and regions of industrial and agricultural activities. In Davao City, there is a need to regularly monitor the quality of river waters to assure their normal conditions. This study assessed the water conditions of  Talomo River and Davao River. Specifically, it aimed to measure the changes in pH level, dissolved oxygen, water temperature, coliforms and transparency. A descriptive comparative method was used to evaluate the waters of the two rivers, specifically in terms of contaminants and other pollutants. In gathering data, the researchers implemented the standard chemical and physical protocols on pH level, dissolved oxygen, Coliforms, Temperature, Transparency and Visual, daily water discharge and sediment discharge measurements. Findings revealed that the waters from the two rivers have high alkalinity; with dissolved oxygen greater than 7.5 mg/L; high fecal coliform count in CFU at 16,000 colonies per 100 mL; high degree of turbidity; experience drastic change of temperature; and indicate an increase of water discharge after the rain. It also showed disparity in sediment discharge with Davao River reporting a greater value compared to Talomo River. These parameters indicate that the two rivers have deteriorated in terms of quality waters when compared to the previous assessments as reported by Environmental Management Bureau (EMB). Keywords: Physical and chemical parameters, Davao river, Talomo river, descriptivecomparative, Davao City, Philippines.