Assessment of shallow groundwater quality and its suitability for drinking and agricultural uses in parts of Ahoada east, Rivers state, Nigeria

Abstract

This study aims at determining the quality of the groundwater in parts of Ahoada East, Rivers State, Nigeria to establish its suitability for domestic, agricultural and industrial purposes. Ten (10) groundwater samples were obtained from boreholes and analysed using standard methods. The result shows a low pH value ranging from 4.66 – 5.92 with a mean value of 5.25. The iron content of nine (9) borehole samples was high except for borehole 1(AH1) which show a significantly low iron content. Other parameters met the World Health Organization (WHO) standards for drinking water and domestic usage. The Sodium Adsorption Ratio is low, making it suitable for irrigation. For industrial purposes, the water should be treated according to the industrial process in view before usage. Furthermore, water for drinking should be treated mildly, due to low pH and high iron content. Polyvinyl chloride materials (PVC) and other non-corrosive materials should be used for the construction of boreholes within the area to reduce damage to plumbing materials. Groundwater monitoring, effective and holistic management strategy should be employed in the study area.

Key Words: Groundwater, hydrogeochemistry, water quality, Ahoada, Rivers State, Nigeria