Multidimensionnal Analysis Of Two Lebanese Surface Water Quality: Ibrahim And El-Kalb Rivers

摘要

This study covers Ibrahim and El Kalb Rivers, located in Mount Lebanon, at central Lebanon. These two rivers are emerging as part of our national heritage. They represent a very important key in our socio-economic and socio-geographic confrontations. Thus, due to the climate change and the stress that Lebanon embrace with the demographic and pollution extension, this present work emphasizes the importance of elaborating an inventory of water quality of these two rivers. The assessment was conducted from 2007 to 2008, covering almost all seasons, and located in the lower part of these two rivers. Physico-chemical and microbiological characteristics were considered. First, spatial and temporal variations showed that the study of each parameter separately is not interesting enough regarding the comprehension of the whole aquatic ecosystem. However, a multivariate analysis using the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) shows a great interest in exploring and monitoring water quality of these two rivers. The results show that El-Kalb River stations represent to a certain extent the worst water quality with high levels of anthropogenic and mineral characteristics, station K3 showcased as the worst station water quality of both rivers. Luckily, Jeita Grotto, one of the most beautiful sites of the world, is relatively preserved from fecal contamination in contrast to what had been reported lately. Despite many concerns about the water quality in the coming years, due to the inability of the authorities survey and water scarcity, our study shows that our lotic systems are able for self-depuration processes, helping in sustaining its hydrological equilibrium. The introduction of chemical pollutants involves several interactions that help restoring the water balance. However, the microbial organisms are influenced by the environmental conditions, and subsequently persist in the environment by colonizing eventually the benthic surfaces, which represent a great risk for public health. In addition, we note that the PCA discriminates between two different rivers, which demonstrate the importance of using the PCA as a tool for assessing the quality of surface waters.