Chemical contamination in a typical independent water scheme (IWS) catchment

Abstract

—Surface fresh waters including rivers, streams and lakes are a major source of drinking water and are habitats for plants and animals. Surface waters are often contaminated with chemicals such as pesticides, nutrients, heavy metals and dissolved inorganics. The sources of these chemicals include agricultural and anthropogenic activities. The occurrence of chemical contaminants in drinking water has become a problem of increasing concern. Samoa, the baseline information on the contamination problems in a typical Independent Water Scheme (IWS) catchment is very limited. Hence, this article will provide detail information on the past and current status of drinking water by chemical contaminants.