WATER QUALITY ASSESSMENT AND HYDROCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF SURFACE WATER WITHIN THE CALABAR RIVER WATERSHED

The assessment of water quality and hydrochemical characterization of surface water is critical for ensuring safe water usage and environmental protection. This study investigates the water quality of surface water around the Calabar River watershed, focusing on the hydrochemical properties and compliance with regulatory standards. Water samples were colle cted from three locations: A1, B1, and C1, and analyzed for key parameters including Calcium (Ca² ⁺ ), Magnesium (Mg² ⁺ ), Sodium (Na ⁺ ), Potassium (K ⁺ ), Bicarbonate (HCO ₃⁻ ), Carbonate (CO ₃ ² ⁻ ), Chloride (Cl ⁻ ), Sulphate (SO ₄ ² ⁻ ), and Fluoride (F ⁻ ).The results were compared with the Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for drinking water quality. The findings reveal that most parameters, such as Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, Chloride, and Sulphate, fall within permissible limits, indicating that the water is generally safe for domestic and agricultural use. Howev er, variations were observed in Calcium (Ca² ⁺ ), Magnesium (Mg² ⁺ ), Sodium (Na ⁺ ), Potassium (K ⁺ ), Bicarbonate (HCO ₃⁻ ), Carbonate (CO ₃ ² ⁻ ), Chloride (Cl ⁻ ), Sulphate (SO ₄ ² ⁻ ), and Fluoride (F ⁻ ), Turbidity, total dissolve oxygen concentrations across the sampled locations, suggesting potential localized factors influencing water chemistry. Fluoride and Bica rbonate levels were particularly low . The study highlights the importance of regular monitoring and sustainable management practices to water quality and the aquatic ecosystems. Recommendations include continuous water quality surveillance, public awarenes s initiatives, and preventive measures to mitigate contamination risks.