Abstract:
This present study assessed the impact of dumpsites on ground water in Akure and Ondo
municipalities. Fifteen (15) water samples were collected from wells in each of Akure and
Ondo municipalities in the month of June. The physicochemical properties (pH, electrical
conductivity, dissolved oxygen and temperature) of the water samples were determined using
the appropriate test kits. The depth and distance of wells from dumpsite was also measure
with a measuring tape. Total and faecal coliform counts were also carried out using the
standard method recommended by American Public Health Association.
The result of this study reveals that most of physicochemical properties such as pH: [Akure
(4.8-7.5), Ondo (5.9-6.8)]; temperature [Akure (27.0-28.5 ), Ondo (26.4-29.1 )]; dissolved
oxygen [Akure (0.7-5.6mg/l), Ondo (0.4-3.6mg/l)] and electrical conductivity [Akure
(2.6x102-1.72x103 μs/cm), Ondo (1.92x102-6.43x103 μs/cm)] exceeded the permissible limit
recommended by (World Health Organization) WHO. Coliforms were also observed in all
water samples from wells in the two municipalities [total coliform (Akure:
3.45x102-1.03x105cfu/ml, Ondo: 1.68x102-1.66x104cfu/ml); faecal coliform for example
Akure: 1.57x102-2.57x104cfu/ml; Ondo: 6.17x102-2.52x103cfu/ml)]. However, their
concentration varies across different sampling site. The finding of this study suggest that hand
dug well around refuse dumpsite are not safe for human consumption.
