ASSESSMENT OF WATER QUALITY OF EAST PART OF THE ERGENE BASIN, TURKEY

Abstract

Although Turkey, particularly the Thrace region, seems to be rich in soil and water resources in comparison to its location, population growth, pollution caused by industrialisation and possible global warming threaten the high potential cultivated lands and important water resources. Very rapid industrialisation process has been occurring in recent years in Thrace, especially in the east part, as in other regions of Turkey. This development creates many environmental problems. The region is close to the EU countries which are the most important importers of Turkey and besides it is very near to Istanbul that comprises approximately 1/7 of Turkish population. Nearness of the region accelerates development of chemicals and fertilisers used in agricultural and industrial production which have caused quick pollution of groundwater resources together with housing and industrial wastewaters. In this study 17 groundwater and 2 surface water sampling points in the Cerkezkoy-Corlu region of Thrace were chosen. Water samples were collected during a 12-month period. All samples were analysed for Cu, Fe, Zn, Mn, Cr, Cd, Pb, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, HCO3-, SO4, Cl, and NO3 ions. Analyses show that Cu, Cr and Pb contents in some samples exceed TSE, WHO and EPA standards.