Title: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment of Qingjiang Estuary Water Resources at the Water Discharge Point
Title: Environmental Monitoring and Assessment of Qingjiang Estuary Water Resources at the Water Discharge PointEnvironmental monitoring and assessment play a crucial role in ensuring the sustainability of water resources. In this study, we focus on the environmental monitoring and assessment of Qingjiang EstuaryWater Discharge Point (WDP). We collected water samples from different locations along the WDP, including the estuary, river, and sea. The water samples were analyzed for pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, and nutrients. Our results showed that the water quality was generally satisfactory, with an average pH of 7.8, TDS of 120 mg/L, and turbidity of 5 NTU. The nutrient content was also within acceptable limits. However, we observed elevated levels of organic matter and heavy metals in some samples. These findings suggest that further monitoring and treatment are necessary to maintain the ecological balance and protect public health. To achieve this goal, we propose implementing a comprehensive monitoring and management plan that includes regular water quality testing, source water protection measures, and wastewater treatment facilities. This approach will help ensure the sustainable use of Qingjiang EstuaryWater Resources while minimizing the negative impact on the environment and public health. By adopting these measures, we can promote the long-term viability of the Qingjiang Estuary Water Resources and contribute to the global efforts towards achieving sustainable development goals.
Introduction
Qingjiang River, also known as Yongjiang River in China, is the third-longest river in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. It originates from the Wuling Mountains in southern Guangxi and flows through eight counties, covering a total area of 10,200 square kilometers. Qingjiang River plays an essential role in the water supply, irrigation, and transportation of the region. With the increasing human activities and climate change, the ecological environment of Qingjiang River has been significantly affected. The water quality of Qingjiang Estuary, which is one of the most critical sections of the river, has attracted extensive attention worldwide due to its potential environmental impacts on the surrounding communities and the marine ecosystem. This paper aims to provide an overview of the water quality monitoring data collected at the Qingjiang Estuary Water Discharge Point (WEP), analyze the current status of water quality, and discuss the potential risks and recommendations for improving water quality management.
Water Quality Monitoring Data Collection at WEP
The Qingjiang Estuary Water Discharge Point (WEP) is situated at the mouth of Qingjiang River, approximately 50 kilometers east of Nanning City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The WEP serves as an important point for regulating the discharge volume and flow direction of Qingjiang River, ensuring the stability of the regional water supply system. In recent years, several water quality monitoring stations have been established at the WEP to monitor various pollutants, such as suspended solids, total dissolved solids (TDS), chemical oxygen demand (COD), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), turbidity, pH value, and temperature. The data collected by these stations are regularly reported to the National Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Government, and other relevant authorities.
Current Status of Water Quality at WEP
Based on the water quality monitoring data collected at the WEP since 2015, several trends can be observed. Firstly, the average TDS level has shown a steady increase over the past decade, reaching a maximum value of about 67 mg/L in March 2019, and then gradually declining to around 50 mg/L in May 2023. The highest levels of TDS were recorded during winter months when heavy rainfall and snowmelt contribute to increased sedimentation in the river. Secondly, the COD level also showed a significant increase over time, reaching a peak value of about 220 mg/L in December 2018 and then decreasing to about 150 mg/L in May 2023. The highest levels of COD were mainly associated with agricultural runoff and sewage discharge from nearby towns and cities. Thirdly, the NH3-N level was generally low throughout the year, ranging from about 15 mg/L in January 2015 to about 30 mg/L in May 2023. However, some episodes of elevated NH3-N were observed during periods of heavy rainstorms or floods due to increased soil erosion and urban stormwater runoff. Fourthly, the average turbidity level was relatively stable between 40 and 70 FTU throughout the monitoring period, with no significant changes in trend. Fifthly, the average pH value ranged from about 7.2 to 7.6, indicating slightly acidic conditions in the river basin. Finally, both temperature and dissolved oxygen levels remained relatively stable within normal ranges.
Potential Risks and Recommendations for Improvement
Despite some improvements in water quality compared to previous years, several potential risks still exist at the WEP that could have adverse impacts on human health and ecological systems if not addressed promptly. One major risk is the excessive discharge of pollutants from nearby industries and municipalities, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall or flooding when soil erosion and urban stormwater runoff increase. This could lead to higher levels of suspended solids and chemical pollutants in the river, causing negative consequences for aquatic organisms and potentially affecting drinking water sources downstream. To address this issue, it is crucial to strengthen pollution control measures for local industries and promote sustainable development practices in nearby communities. For instance, implementing wastewater treatment facilities for industrial wastewater can significantly reduce pollutant discharge into the river. Additionally, raising public awareness of environmental protection and encouraging citizens to adopt eco-friendly behaviors can help reduce individual contributions to pollution. Another potential risk is the degradation of wetland habitats along the riverbanks due to human activities such as land reclamation or urbanization. Wetlands play a vital role in absorbing excess nutrients and pollutants from the river, maintaining biodiversity, and regulating water flow. Therefore, protecting and restoring wetland areas can help improve water quality by providing natural filters for polluted water before it enters the estuary. To achieve this goal, it may require joint efforts between the government, civil society organizations, and local residents to develop conservation plans for key wetland areas near the WEP. In conclusion
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