An assessment of the contribution of agricultural non-point source pollution on the water quality of the Vaal River within the Grootdraai Dam catchment

摘要

This study assesses the contribution of agricultural non-point source pollution, to poor waterquality of the Vaal River within the Grootdraai dam catchment area. The study evaluatesagricultural pollutants affecting the quality of water within the study area. The impact ofagricultural non-point source pollution on the water quality of the Vaal River was evaluatedby establishing a correlation between the quantity of polluted runoff reaching the River andthe quantity of measured nitrates and phosphates in its waters. A questionnaire using randomsampling was used to capture data from 15 commercial farmers 35 local residents and theDepartment of Water Affairs management. The results of the study show that agriculturalnutrients are heavily impacting and compromising the water quality of the Grootdraai Dam.The mean concentrations of Nitrogen and Phosphorus were found to be well above the waterquality guidelines there by promoting eutrophication.