scholarly journals Water for African elephants ( Loxodonta africana ): faecal microbial loads affect use of artificial waterholes

2018 ◽  
Vol 14 (8) ◽  
pp. 20180360 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mduduzi Ndlovu ◽  
Antón Pérez-Rodríguez ◽  
Emma Devereux ◽  
Miranda Thomas ◽  
Alfredo Colina ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
Protected Areas ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Animal Movement ◽  
Loxodonta Africana ◽  
Quality Parameters ◽  
Camera Traps ◽  
African Elephants ◽  
Strong Negative Correlation ◽  
Key Species

In semi-arid protected areas, artificial waterholes ensure that water is locally available to animals for extended periods. However, artificial waterholes may limit animal movement, which contributes towards habitat deterioration. Challenges of artificial water provisioning worsen in the presence of ecosystem engineers like African elephants Loxodonta africana , capable of transforming environments. Camera traps were used to monitor elephant visitation at 21 artificial waterholes in the Kruger National Park, South Africa. We also assessed if water quality parameters influenced elephant preference for certain waterholes. There were no significant correlations between elephant abundance and water physicochemical properties. However, there was a strong negative correlation between elephant abundance and levels of Escherichia coli in water. Our findings suggest that elephants avoid drinking water with high levels of faecal microbial loads. Whereas most studies addressing animal management in protected areas consider waterholes as homogeneous units, we posit that water quality could also determine local landscape use and movement patterns of key species like elephants, a finding with relevant implications in reserve management practices.

scholarly journals Comparison of Forecasting Models for Real-Time Monitoring of Water Quality Parameters Based on Hybrid Deep Learning Neural Networks

Water ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (11) ◽  
pp. 1547
Author(s):  
Jian Sha ◽  
Xue Li ◽  
Man Zhang ◽  
Zhong-Liang Wang
Keyword(s):  
Neural Network ◽  
Water Quality ◽  
Deep Learning ◽  
Real Time ◽  
Best Management Practices ◽  
Input Data ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Quality Parameters ◽  
Water Quality Parameters ◽  
Real Time Monitoring

Accurate real-time water quality prediction is of great significance for local environmental managers to deal with upcoming events and emergencies to develop best management practices. In this study, the performances in real-time water quality forecasting based on different deep learning (DL) models with different input data pre-processing methods were compared. There were three popular DL models concerned, including the convolutional neural network (CNN), long short-term memory neural network (LSTM), and hybrid CNN–LSTM. Two types of input data were applied, including the original one-dimensional time series and the two-dimensional grey image based on the complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition algorithm with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) decomposition. Each type of input data was used in each DL model to forecast the real-time monitoring water quality parameters of dissolved oxygen (DO) and total nitrogen (TN). The results showed that (1) the performances of CNN–LSTM were superior to the standalone model CNN and LSTM; (2) the models used CEEMDAN-based input data performed much better than the models used the original input data, while the improvements for non-periodic parameter TN were much greater than that for periodic parameter DO; and (3) the model accuracies gradually decreased with the increase of prediction steps, while the original input data decayed faster than the CEEMDAN-based input data and the non-periodic parameter TN decayed faster than the periodic parameter DO. Overall, the input data preprocessed by the CEEMDAN method could effectively improve the forecasting performances of deep learning models, and this improvement was especially significant for non-periodic parameters of TN.

scholarly journals Addressing Gaps in Environmental Water Policy Issues across Five Mediterranean Freshwater Protected Areas

Water ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 10 (12) ◽  
pp. 1853 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dionissis Latinopoulos ◽  
Pantelis Sidiropoulos ◽  
Ifigenia Kagalou
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
Protected Areas ◽  
Water Framework Directive ◽  
Water Policy ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Gap Analysis ◽  
Environmental Water ◽  
Extra Effort ◽  
Environmental Goals ◽  
Water Uses

The increasing pressure on water resources in Europe’s broader area led member states to take measures and adopt a common legislative “umbrella” of directives to protect them. The aim of this research is to investigate practicing deficiencies, information lacks and distances from optimal status as set by the Water Framework Directive and supporting water uses. This contributes to the improvement of the efficiency and harmonization of all environmental goals especially when management of Protected Areas is addressed. Gap analysis, an approach that reveals the distance between current and desired level, was carried out, targeting five Mediterranean hydro-ecosystems, covering three major water policy pillars “Monitoring Practices”, “Management Practices” and “Water Quality and Pressures”. Data for such analyses was collected by literature research supported by a query matrix. The findings revealed a lack in compliance with the Water Framework Directive regarding the “Monitoring Practices” and several deficiencies in sites burdened by eutrophication and human pressures on “Water Quality and Pressures” field. As for “Management Practices”, extra effort should be applied in all hydro-ecosystems to reach the desirable state. We suggest that gap analysis, as a harmonization tool, can unify apparently different areas under the same goals to reveal the extra necessary “investment”.

scholarly journals Operational Forest Stream Crossings Effects on Water Quality in the Virginia Piedmont

2011 ◽  
Vol 35 (3) ◽  
pp. 123-130 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wallace M. Aust ◽  
Mathew B. Carroll ◽  
M. Chad Bolding ◽  
C. Andrew Dolloff
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
Best Management Practices ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Quality Parameters ◽  
Site Factors ◽  
Concentration Data ◽  
Individual Site ◽  
Forest Stream ◽  
Randomized Design ◽  
Portable Bridges

Abstract Water quality indices were examined for paired upstream and downstream samples for 23 operational stream crossings and approaches during four periods. Stream crossings were (1) portable bridges (BRIDGE), (2) culverts backfilled with poles (POLE), (3) culverts with earth backfill (CULVERT), and (4) reinforced fords (FORD). The four operational periods were (1) prior to crossing installation (INITIAL), (2) after installation (INSTALL), (3) during harvest (HARVEST), and (4) after road closure (CLOSURE). Differences (Δ) in water samples collected above and below stream crossings were analyzed for Δtotal dissolved solids (ΔTDS), ΔpH, Δconductivity, Δtemperature, and Δsediment concentration. Data were analyzed as a completely randomized design with unequal replication (four to seven replications). Significant differences were observed (α < 0.10) among crossing types for Δtemperature, ΔTDS, ΔpH, and Δconductivity. Overall, the least disruptive crossing type for water quality was BRIDGE, but road standards and approach characteristics were also important. Modeled estimates of erosion demonstrated that CULVERT approaches had higher potential erosion than other crossings. Water quality parameters were most negatively affected during INSTALL and HARVEST and were apparently improving during CLOSURE. Permanent crossings were associated with significantly greater temperatures than temporary crossings, likely because of increased width of streamside management zone removal. Water quality effects could be minimized by installing appropriate best management practices during all harvest periods rather than waiting until CLOSURE. Findings should be used cautiously because individual site factors such as climate, site, soil, and operational variability will alter effects.

scholarly journals Water quality and management in the Australian pig industry

2021 ◽  
Vol 61 (7) ◽  
pp. 637
Author(s):  
Louise Edwards ◽  
Helen Crabb
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Production Systems ◽  
Water Source ◽  
Quality Parameters ◽  
Quality Of Water ◽  
Standard Quality ◽  
Pig Performance ◽  
The Impact

Context Water is the first nutrient and an essential component of all agricultural production systems. Despite its importance there has been limited research on water, and in particular, the impact of its availability, management and quality on production systems. Aims This research sought to describe the management and quality of water used within the Australian pig industry. Specifically, the water sources utilised, how water was managed and to evaluate water quality at both the source and the point of delivery to the pig. Methods Fifty-seven commercial piggeries across Australia participated in this study by completing a written survey on water management. In addition, survey participants undertook physical farm parameter measurements including collecting water samples. Each water sample was tested for standard quality parameters including pH, hardness, heavy metals and microbiological status. Key results Responses were received from 57 farms, estimated to represent at least 22% of ‘large’ pig herds. Bore water was the most common water source being utilised within the farms surveyed. Management practices and infrastructure delivering water from the source to the point of consumption were found to differ across the farms surveyed. Furthermore, water was regularly used as a delivery mechanism for soluble additives such as antibiotics. The quality of water at the source and point of consumption was found to be highly variable with many parameters, particularly pH, hardness, salinity, iron, manganese and microbiological levels, exceeding the acceptable standard. Conclusions In general, water quality did not appear to be routinely monitored or managed. As a result, farm managers had poor visibility of the potential negative impacts that inferior water quality or management may be having on pig production and in turn the economics of their business. Indeed, inferior water quality may impact the delivery of antibiotics and in turn undermine the industry’s antimicrobial stewardship efforts. Implications The study findings suggest that water quality represents a significant challenge to the Australian pig industry. Access to drinking water of an acceptable quality is essential for optimal pig performance, health and welfare but also to ensure farm to fork supply chain integrity, traceability and food safety.

Monitoring the impact of farm practices on water quality in the Otago and Southland deer focus farms

2006 ◽  
pp. 183-188
Author(s):  
R.W. Mcdowell ◽  
N. Mcgrouther ◽  
G. Morgan ◽  
M.S. Srinivasan ◽  
D.R. Stevens ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Pond Water ◽  
Quality Parameters ◽  
Environmental Objectives ◽  
Covered Area ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Further Development ◽  
Soil And Water

Research on the soil and water quality of deer farms is minimal. However, the perception is that many deer operations may be detrimental to soil and water quality. To address this problem two deer focus farms (DFF, 1 each in Otago and Southland) were established to showcase how productivity and environmental objectives can coincide. Managements implemented by the farmers included a sedimentation pond, fencing off waterways and retiring land under a QEII covenant. A detailed soil and water quality testing regime occurred for each farm: data were collected at the Southland DFF for three tributaries (one fenced off, one partially fenced and one unfenced) which fed into a stream and through a tussock covered area retired from grazing. Water quality in the unfenced and partially fenced tributaries was poor with no water quality parameters meeting ANZECC guidelines, whereas water quality in the fenced-off and planted tributary was better. Water exiting the retired area met ANZECC guidelines. Although water quality on parts of both deer farms did not meet ANZECC guidelines, when management practices such as fencing off and the creation of a pond were used water quality improved. More importantly, an area retired from grazing and further development on the Southland DFF showed that water quality could be significantly improved and could be better than that entering the farm. Keywords: fencing-off, QEII covenant, sedimentation pond, water quality

scholarly journals Wavelet and statistical analyses of river water quality parameters: a case study in the Lower Minnesota River

2018 ◽  
Vol 13 (4) ◽  
pp. 922-931 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ang Gao ◽  
Shiqiang Wu ◽  
Senlin Zhu ◽  
Zhun Xu
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
River Water ◽  
Wavelet Decomposition ◽  
Oxygen Demand ◽  
Quality Parameters ◽  
River Water Quality ◽  
Water Quality Parameters ◽  
Strong Negative Correlation ◽  
Minnesota River ◽  
One Year

Abstract Statistical and wavelet analyses are useful tools for analyzing river water quality parameters. In this study, they were employed to study parameters including biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), dissolved oxygen (DO), nitrate (NO3), ammonium (NH4), phosphate (PO4), total phosphorus (TP), total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), chlorophyll a (CHLA), total suspended solids (TSS) and water temperature (TEMP) monitored at five hydrologic stations on the Lower Minnesota River, USA. Strong positive correlations were observed between CHLA-BOD, TP-TKN, TP-TSS and TKN-TSS, with strong negative correlation between DO-TEMP. Daubechies wavelet at level 5 has been calculated for some key water quality parameters as it gives the finer scale approximation and decomposition of each water parameter. The results show that TEMP and DO have relative quasi-periodicity of about one year, while the quasi-periodicity of NH4 and PO4 are weaker than for TEMP and DO. Correlations between some parameters based on wavelet decomposition results are consistent. The fluctuation range characteristics of some parameters were also analyzed through wavelet decomposition.

scholarly journals Monogenetic trematodes infestations in Indian major carps of Mymensingh region

2016 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 187-194 ◽  
Author(s):  
David Rintu Das ◽  
Shankar Majumder ◽  
Kirtunia Juran Chandra
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Quality Parameters ◽  
Fish Host ◽  
Water Quality Parameters ◽  
Catla Catla ◽  
Fish Farms ◽  
Indian Major Carps ◽  
Species Specific ◽  
Major Carps

A study was conducted to investigate the infestations of monogenetic trematodes of juvenile carps of Mymensingh region. A total of eight (8) farms, four Government (Govt.) and four Private (Pvt.) fish farms were investigated of Indian major carps - Catla (Catla catla), Rui (Labeo rohita) and Mrigal (Cirrhinus cirrhosus) during June, 2010 to May, 2012. Monthly samplings were carried out with 5 fishes of each species and each farm. Altogether 2880 fish host were examined of which 1424 hosts were found to be infested with monogenetic trematodes of which 626 from Govt. and 798 from Pvt. farms. The monogeneans were very common in gills of all fishes. Water quality parameters were taken and management practices were also noted. The risk of infestation by monogeneans of carp significantly (p<0.001) increased when the water quality parameters were deteriorated. Prevalence (%), mean intensity and abundance were found to be species specific and also varied with seasons and management systems practiced by different farmers. Prevalence (%) of monogeneans in carps was significantly (p< 0.001) higher in Pvt. farm than that of Govt. farms. The prevalence (%) of monogeneans were significantly (p< 0.01) higher in rainy season than dry season. Mrigal was more infected by monogeneans followed by Catla and Rui.Res. Agric., Livest. Fish.3(1): 187-194, April 2016

scholarly journals INVESTIGATION OF DISEASES OF JUVENILE CATLA FROM CULTURE POND FARMING CONDITION IN MYMENSINGH

2017 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 71-80
Author(s):  
D. R. Das ◽  
K. J. Chandra
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Pathological Condition ◽  
Quality Parameters ◽  
Water Quality Parameters ◽  
Catla Catla ◽  
Optimum Level ◽  
Fish Farms ◽  
Liver And Kidney ◽  
Histopathological Studies

Investigation on health conditions and diseases of juvenile catla (Catla catla) was carried out for clinical and histopathological observations from different farms of Mymensingh region.  A total of eight (8) farms, four Government (Govt.) and four Private (Pvt.) fish farms were selected for the study. The Indian major carp - catla was examined during June, 2010 to May, 2012. Monthly samplings were carried out with 5 fishes from each farm. Altogether 960 fish hosts were examined during the study period. Water quality parameters such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, ammonia, hardness, alkalinity, transparency and depth of water etc. were taken and management practices were investigated fortnightly interval. These were almost similar for all experimental ponds. The risk of being infestation by parasites of catla significantly (p<0.001) increased when the water quality parameters were not maintained the optimum level. Clinical examination of fishes was also carried out for any kind of abnormalities at monthly intervals. For histopathological studies skin, muscle, gill, liver and kidney were collected, processed and stained in Haematoxylin and Eosin. Histologically, catla of different fish farms were more affected in colder months (October to January). Structures of fish organs were normal from March to July. In the months of September, minor pathologies were found to be started and in the months of February the pathological condition of fish gradually reduced. Pathological changes like necrosis, fungal granuloma, protozoan and monogenean cyst, vacuolation, melanomacrophase, haemorrhage, hypertrophy, hyperplasia and clubbing were recorded in all the investigated organs. Among them fish gills and skin were more affected followed by liver and kidney. Again when considered individual fish farm, fish of Pvt. Fish farms were more affected than others. The study showed that severity of clinically and pathologically changes were gradually increased in November to January. During the period mixed infection of protozoa, monogenea and argulus were noticed in catla of the investigated farms.

scholarly journals Watershed Modeling Using Swat for Hydrology and Water Quality : A Review

2021 ◽  
pp. 190-196
Author(s):  
Sravani Duvvuri
Keyword(s):  
Water Quality ◽  
Water Resources ◽  
Best Management Practices ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Hydrological Modeling ◽  
Quality Parameters ◽  
Hydrologic Model ◽  
Livestock Grazing ◽  
Organic Fertilizers ◽  
World Health

According to World health Organization Global health Observatory, 600 million Indians are facing extreme water stress and about two lakh people die every year due to inadequate access to safe water. This scenario indicate that many parts of the country will soon face a crisis in both water quantity and water quality unless management of water resources planned in a sustainable way. Many major rivers are polluted as a result of urbanization and industrialization, thereby quality parameters also violating the standards. In India, more than 50% of population depends on agriculture and many farmers use fertilizers, consists of harmful chemicals. The Nitrogen and phosphorous are the two nutrients originating from inorganic and organic fertilizers, that affect the water quality due to intensive agricultural farming and livestock grazing. Water availability in a catchment is necessary to plan/allocate the water resources in an equity manner. This can be estimated using a hydrologic model, which is designed to simulate the rainfall-runoff processes of watershed systems. An ArcGIS-based user interface could be used to model hydrologic and water quality parameters. SWAT is a continuous simulation-based model and is developed through a distributed hydrological modeling approach, which is one of the few hydrologic models with water quality coupling capability. This review mainly focuses on the broad aspects related to the execution and applicability of SWAT for various catchments to simulate the runoff and other quality parameters with various calibration techniques, thereby to make policies for best management practices and to promote sustainable development.

scholarly journals Performance evaluation of a sediment control pond

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lindsay Pyatt
Keyword(s):  
Heavy Metals ◽  
Water Quality ◽  
Performance Evaluation ◽  
Suspended Solids ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Fine Particles ◽  
Oxygen Demand ◽  
Quality Parameters ◽  
Design Criteria ◽  
Sediment Control

Current erosion and sediment control practices include the use of sediment control ponds that are designed using the 1994 Ministry of the Environment (MOE) Stormwater Management Practices and Design Manual. These design criteria aim at reducing pollutant loads from developed areas. However, the effectiveness of these design criteria when used for areas undergoing construction has yet to be determined in the field. Thus, this thesis is a performance evaluation of a sediment control pond that was designed using the 1994 MOE stormwater design criteria. The objectives of this thesis include the characterization of the runoff and sediments entering, depositing, and leaving the sediment control pond during the construction phase, and the evaluation of the sediment removal efficiencies of the pond. Generally, the pond was successful in reducing many of the pollutants transported to the pond from the catchment area. Suspended solids were the primary pollutants monitored. Heavy metals and general water quality parameters such as chemical oxygen demand, pH, and alkalinity were also monitored. Suspended solids concentrations were high exiting the pond during several events. The particle size distribution predominantly consisted of fine particles. Most heavy metals including beryllium, cadmium, lead, and nickel were reduced in concentration to levels under their Provincial Water Quality Objectives (PWQO). However, some heavy metals had concentrations above their PWQO when exiting the pond.

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