The Effect of Maintenance Works to Physical and Chemical Conditions of Small Rivers in Agricultural Areas

Abstract

Abiotic and biotic bounty of riparian waters may be affected by inadequate maintenance works. Improper planning and execution of maintenance works cause changes to hydrological and hydrochemical condition of water in small rivers, affecting biocenose of riverbeds by modifying the taxonomic composition of organisms inhabiting the regulated river section. Five (5) rivers were subject to studies - Plonia, Mysla, Tywa, Rurzyca, and Wardynka (Odra river basin), which were monitored before and after maintenance works consisting in desilting, mowing and removal of aquatic plants. This study examined hydrological (mean depth and width of small rivers, speed and flow), physical and chemical parameter of water (temperature, pH, O₂, N-NO₃, N-NH₄, P-PO₄) before and after dredging of selected rivers. Obtained results and resulting statistical analysis demonstrated increase in hydrological indices - depth, width, speed and flow. Among other physical and chemical properties that significantly increased following completion of maintenance works, were O₂ and NH₄. NO₃ concentration and temperature dropped, but not statistically significant. Changes in hydrological and hydrochemical properties of waters caused by maintenance works may affect biodiversity of the regulated river sections, including changes in composition of ichthyofauna species.