DESIGN OF MONITORING NETWORKS FOR WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT IN THE RIVER NILE

Abstract

The objective of this thesis is directed towards designing monitoring networks for water quality management inthe River Nile. Four levels of monitoring networks for water quality are presented in this thesis based on a sound scientific analysis of historical data to obtain as much data and information as needed. These levels are: * Monthly sampling frequency for the primary network which includes • 54 stations (basic and impact) and all point sources of pollution for baseline information; * Biweekly sampling frequency f()r the se ond network which includes 26 basic stations and heavily polluted point sources for detectiflg trends; * As required by inspection for law enforcement for the third• network which includes 39 impact stations and inspected point sources; and * Daily sampling frequency at Abu Simble sampling station (reference station) for early warning. A group of specific parameters should be measured in each level of water quality monitoring networks. In addition to that, 13 sampling stations are selected for monitoring the quality of the bottom and suspended sediments. These stations are chosen at the same locations of the designated water quality stations. Basic stations are used for baseline data and future comparisons. Impact stations are used to detect the impact and spatial distribution of contaminants from point sources of pollution inputs. Sediment samples should be monthly collected in the period between May to October and bimonthly in the period between November to April. Another set of samples which is core samples of 20 em are to be taJcen at the 13 sampling stations every 5 years for detecting contaminants accumulation. A group of specific substances are measured according to the monitoring objectives.