ASSESSMENT OF ECOLOGICAL STATUS OF THE RIVER IBAR IN THE FUNCTION OF PHYSICO-CHEMICAL PARAMETERS

Abstract. The importance of preservation and improvement of the quality of surface waters implies the consideration of the current state of water quality as an integral part of the environment. The aim of this paper is to present the methodology and assess the ecological status of the river Ibar, based on the analysis of measured values of the concentrations of selected physical and chemical parameters, indicators of water quality in measuring stations along the river. Ecological classification of watercourse is determined in accordance with methodology prescribed by Regulation on the parameters of the ecological and chemical status of surface water and the parameters of the chemical and quantitative status of groundwater („Official Gazette of RS”, No. 74/2011), using the data from the Agency for Environmental protection from 2013. It is found that some parameters exceed the limits of the value of required good status, so moderate ecological status of the river Ibar water quality resulted. Moderate ecological status of the river Ibar corresponds to class III of watercourses and provides conditions that correspond to values of biological parameters that are typical for a given status. The ecosystem approach clearly indicates the need to take measures to prevent disruption and to improve water quality as the integral part of the environment. Keywords: ecological status, the river Ibar