The effects of seasonal variations on water quality at selected recreational rivers in Kelantan

Abstract

Determining and assessing water qualities for recreational rivers are crucial for understanding its overall effects to environmental health and potential impacts to human health. Hence, this paper discusses seasonal variation effects on recreational river water quality at six selected recreational rivers in Kelantan namely Lata Janggut, Lata Goleng, Lata Turbo, Lata Keding, Lata Renyok and Lata Batapar. It is significantly important to determine whether these rivers are able to support and safe for recreational activities. The water qualities in the study areas were determined using the guidelines and parameters provided by the National Water Quality Standard (NWQS) and Department of Environment (DOE). The parameters tested in this study were in accordance to NWQS using six parameters, which were pH, BOD, COD, ammoniacal nitrogen, dissolved oxygen and TSS. The water qualities were tested via in situ and laboratory testing. According to DOE, water qualities that are suitable for recreational activities are in Class I and II. The findings from this study confirmed that all six rivers’ water qualities fall under Class I and II for both seasons, with one stream fell in Class II during dry season (Lata Goleng) and three streams fell in Class II during wet season (Lata Renyok, Lata Keding and Lata Batapar). Overall, the study areas were still clean and suitable for recreational activities.