Quality composition and irrigation suitability of various surface water and groundwater sources at Matahara Plain

Abstract: This study highlights the physico-chemical compositions of different water sources available at Matahara Plain and evaluates their suitability for irrigation purpose. Various surface- and ground-water samples were collected and then analysed for important major physic-chemical quality parameters (pH, EC, cations and anions) following standard procedures. Other chemical indices were derived from the measured quality parameters. The quality rating for each water type was evaluated against the recommended threshold level for irrigation. Each water sources were rated for irrigation suitability following standard FAO guidelines and others. Overall, the findings emphasize the need to avoid the use of poor quality water for irrigation. Keywords: groundwater, irrigation suitability, Lake Basaka, Matahara, quality parameters