EFFECT OF DOMESTIC DUMPSITE ON GROUND WATERQUALITY IN AKURE AND ONDO TOWN, ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

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.