Environmental effects on river quality management

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to discuss environmental impacts on river quality. Pollutants from point sources including municipal and industrial sources and from nonpoint sources involving agriculture, urban runoff , mining, silviculture, construction, hydrographic modification and natural sources such as flood can usually cause adverse effects on the environment. These pollutants can be controlled by means of technology and legislation. Wastewater treatment plants can treat wastewater from point sources. Control methods f o r nonpoint source pollution are mainly based on legislation and education. It is more difficult to control the pollution from nonpoint sources than from point sources. The effectiveness of any water quality management plan may be measured in terms of how well the plan accomplishes water quality goals. These goals are usually expressed in the form of wastewater effluent standards or the receiving water quality standards. Water quality models can assist planners in identifying and evaluating possible management programs and in determining which of these best meet the required water quality standards. However, these models should design for both now and future use. The control of technological abuse of the environment, and hence land and river systems, is vital. Aspects of overuse of land f or agriculture, due to population pressures must also be considered.