Characterization of Dumpsite Leachate: Case Study of Ogbomosoland, South-Western Nigeria

Abstract

Leachates contain varying complex characteristics. The 5 Local Government Areas (LGAs) under this study that characterized leachate are no exceptions. Five aged dumpsites, one per LGA were selected and leachates extracted from them through BS 1377 standard method. Samples were taken seasonally over 2 years and subjected to Laboratory analyses for physical, inorganic, metallic and microbial characteristics. The key leachate contents mean, (pollution indices) included Nickel (0.2 mg/l), Manganese (1.8 mg/l), Dissolved Oxygen (11.5 mg/l) and Total Coliform (24.3 cfu/ml). Results obtained were compared with the Nigerian Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) standards. The leachate of the area is found to be stable, objectionably coloured, odoured, alkaline, turbid, hard, with moderate recalcitrant organic and biological matters. The study recommends leachate treatment to minimize groundwater pollution.