Project done by : AARON RAMKHALWHAN

PROJECT TITLE
An investigation into the impact of urbanisation on several water courses in
Trinidad.

PROBLEM STATEMENT
Urbanisation has a negative impact on the water courses in developing areas in
Trinidad.

PURPOSE OF PROJECT
This project was conducted to conclude whether or not urbanization has a negative
impact on water courses and water quality in developing areas of Trinidad. It also
aims to assess factors which adversely affect our water courses.

INTRODUCTION
Water quality refers to the chemical, physical and biological characteristics
of water. It is a measure of the condition of water relative to the requirements of
one or more biotic species and or to any human need or purpose. The most
common standards used to assess water quality relate to health of ecosystems,
safety of human contact and drinking water. Water pollution refers to the
contamination of water bodies such as rivers, oceans, lakes, and groundwater
caused by human activities. This can be harmful to plants and organisms which
live in these water bodies.. Water pollution occurs when pollutants are discharged
directly or indirectly into water bodies without proper treatment to remove harmful
compounds.
For this study 7 sites were visited and information was collected at each of these
sites. Cipero River , Guaracara River , St. Anns River, Blue River , Caparo River ,
Gran Couva River and the Diego Martin River. Many factors were tested at each of
the sites visited such as :- salinity , pH , conductivity , temperature , dissolved
oxygen in the water , dissolved nitrates in the water , dissolved phosphates in the
water and the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD).

LITERATURE REVIEW
According to EPA (2012) urbanisation can be referred to as the
concentration of human populations into discrete areas. It can
lead to the transformation of land for residential, commercial,
industrial and transportation purposes
The Water Resources Management conducted a case study in pollution in a major
river catchment in Trinidad.Guanapo River showed conditions indicating high
water quality as is expected of a near pristine streamwith forest cover dominating
the upper watershed. Nutrient levels were low and DO was high.Seasonal
differences in water quality were not great.The upper sites were found to be mildly
polluted and couldnt be classified as severely impacted. On the other hand
slightly elevevated levels of nutrients were observed at San Juan and St. Joseph..
This was due to the significant residential development and urbanization in the
catchment. On the upper site of the Aripo river it showed a slightly higher level of
total nitrates.Lower sites such as Tacarigua and St.Joseph Rivers were grossly
polluted due to the fact that they were located south of the major residential and
commercial areas of the river system which subjected them to inputs of surface
run-off , grey water and sewage.. Generally, lower sites are characterised by lower
water quality.For most of the dry season and parts of the wet season these rivers
had a surficial anoxic layer. The Arima River site, downstream of the town of
Arima, had better water quality, possibly a result of a higher percentage of forest
cover. The Aripo River had a slightly higher average nitrate level in both seasons
with several peaks in the levels during the dry season.

As explained above the research done proved that urbanization does in fact affect
water quality but human activities also lead to water courses being polluted. In a
report by Rahanna A. Juman (Wetlands Ecologist) and Deanesh Ramsewak
(Remote Sensing Officer) 2003,stated that Caroni Swamp, the largest mangrove
dominated wetland in Trinidad and Tobago, has been impacted by human activities
since the early 1900s. This swamp is located southwest of Port of Port of Spain,
The Caroni Swam comprises of herbaceous marsh interrupted by man channels and
lagoons present and mangrove. Under the Cipriani Reclamation Scheme that was
founded to facilitate the cultivation of rice the swamp was altered in the 1920.This
scheme involved hydrological alterations to the swamp which resulted in an overall
reduction of freshwater inflow into the Caroni Swamp where causing a reduction
in the freshwater storage in the wetlands causing salinity levels to rise. Waste water

from Industries and agricultural run-off also pollutes this swam . The EMA had
instituted measures imploring persons to assist in preventing hazardous materials
from entering water ways.
A study was done by the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) during the
wet season in 1997, revealed that the raw water quality in the Caroni River at the
CAWTP deteriorated since 1974. This occurred due to increases in uncontrolled
discharges of industrial effluents including wash waters from quarries ; increased
deforestation that leads to erosive soils and increased discharge of untreated or
partially treated sewage effluents.

A study by the Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA) on surface water quality in all the
rivers of the Caroni River Basin showed that many of the rivers especially in the
middle and lower reaches were highly polluted by a combination of domestic ,
agricultural and industrial wastes. Tested both in the dry and wet seasonand the
bacterial count of many of the rivers exceeded the international guidelines for their
respective uses. The following were the most polluted rivers , Santa Cruz ,
Guanapo , Maracas / St Joeseph , Tacarigua , Oropuna , Mausica , Arima , Aripo ,
Manacal / caparo Cunupia , El Mamo , Guayamare.

METHODS OF DATA COLLECTION

Firstly appropriate arrangements were made to the different sites such as finances
and transport. Methods of the various tests were written down prior to the site visit
so it would be familiar on the day. Data sheets were made so the results would be
easily recorded when the tests were carried out.
On the 7 different sites were visited. Tests for pH
, salinity , dissolved oxygen , temperature , conductivity , phosphates , nitrates ,
Biological oxygen demand and dissolved nitrite nitrogen.
Data was not only obtained on the fields but it was also obtained via articles ,
books and the internet and research reports and they were compared to the
findings.

Entry Number: 1
Date:17/11/13
Site Location: St Anns River which is located in Trinidads capital city Port-ofSpain.

Background:
At the time the St Ann's River (East Dry River) ran through Port of Spain along the
street that is now called Chacon Street. The sea shore was at the area known as
Marine Square and in the sea was a small island on which a fort was constructed
called Fort San Andres.Saint Ann's River was 1.88 kilometres in length and located
in the capital city of Trinidad Port Of Spain. The River is susceptible to
flooding in the late 1700s and it hindered the development and expansion of Portof-Spain and so Chacon had the rivers course altered so that it ran to the east of
the city along the foot of the Laventille Hills. The river was still susceptible to
flooding and during the rainy season the river would overflow and flood many
parts of the city. The city is the main retail and administrative centre of Trinidad

and has been the capital since 1757 there St Anns river is a perfect example of
how urbanization has affected a water course.

Objectives:
To observe the natural and/or anthropogenic activities that may influence
the river.
To observe flora and fauna present at the river.
To determine the effect of urbanization on the river by conducting water
quality tests

Activities:
Carried out by class:
Observations of Flora , fauna , colour of the water and the surrounding
environment were made.
Various Tests were carried out on water samples at different points in the
river to test water quality

Site used for:

Waste disposal from Hilton and Queens Hall

Drainage Point for some residents.
Bathroom facilities for the homeless
Disposal of small waste by local residents.

Observations :
For the duration of the visit the weather remained genrally sunny. As we walked
along the length of the river some vegetation was observed but were mainly grass.
Two homeless persons were observed taking a bath in the river and also many
pieces of litter and garbage were seen floating in the water. In close proximity to
the river a schools ground was observed and telecommunication poles.

Comments:
The river was located in a highly urbanized area.
It flowed along a paved pathway
The was little amount of litter observed which showed that the watercourse
was relatively well maintained..
The water itself was relatively clear,

Follow up Activities: The class proceeded to another site to conduct more water
quality tests.

Entry Number :2
Date:
Site Location: Cipero River located in San Fernando in Trinidad.
Background:
In the late 1700s and early 1800s sugar was the heart of The economy of
Trinidad. Sugar was transported from the sugar estates using boats and were
carried using the Cipero and Guaracara Rivers. On the Cipero River an
Embarcadere was erected near its mouth with a storage shed and wharfs and to
date the structure still exists. The Cipero River is a stream located in Victoria ,
Trinidad in the vicinity of Sandernando and on a map is found at the
coordinates1016'0" N and 6128'0" W in DMS (Degrees Minutes Seconds). The
river is also a tributary of the Gulf of Paria.
Objectives:
To observe the natural and/or anthropogenic activities that may influence
the river.
To observe flora and fauna present at the river.
To determine the effect of urbanization on the river by conducting water
quality tests.
Activities:

Carried out by class:

. Observations of Flora , fauna , colour of the water and the surrounding
environment were made.
Various Tests were carried out on water samples at different points in the
river to test water quality

Site used for:

Waste disposal from service stations

WASA waste water disposal for the plant on Riverside Drive
Waste disposal for businesses in the area
Livelihood dependent on catching crab

Observations:
The water in the river was brown in colour and foul odor was smelt in the area. As
we walked along the length of the river vegetion was observed and were mainly
tall grasses, trees and bamboos. Many crabs were seening running and crab holes
were present in the ground. At certain Points along the river it was concreteand
many pipelines and drains ran along and into the river bank. In the general area of
the river there were residential areas , small buissnesse and the Gulf View
Industrial Park.

Comments:
The river was located in a highly urbanized area.
The water was brown in colour.
There was litter found in close proximity to the river.

 There was clear anthropogenic influence as pipelines were seen leading into
the river.
Follow up Activities: The class proceeded to another site to conduct more water
quality tests..

Entry: #3
Date:
Site Location: Caparo River situated in Caroni Trinidad.

Background:
In the vicinity of caroni the Caparo River is located. It is approximately 1 metre
above sea level and is also a tributary of the Gulf of Paria. It is located in the
county of caroni which has an area of 557 km2 , the west central part of Trinidad. It
lies south and southwest of the County of Saint George, west of the Nariva County
and north of the Victoria County. To the west is is bounded but h Gulf of Paria.
Objectives:
To observe the natural and/or anthropogenic activities that may influence
the river.
To observe flora and fauna present at the river.
To determine the effect of urbanization on the river by conducting water
quality tests.
Activities:
Carried out by class:

 Observations of Flora , fauna , colour of the water and the surrounding

environment were made.
Various Tests were carried out on water samples at different points in the
river to test water quality.

Site used for:

Water being used for the disposal of waste by both residents and commercial
activities
Residential Areas along the river banks
Drains and sewer lines flowing into the river
Site for religious practices and dumping of religious artifacts
Location of auto shops around and along the river

Observation:

A water was a pale brown colour. Anthropogenic signs were clearly observed as
deeyas were seen at the bottom of the river. Along the length of the river there was
a high presence of vegetation main consisting of grass, trees and bamboo stalks.
Many pipelines were observed running into the river from a nearby temple. Birds ,
crabs and tiny insects were observed and on the surface of the water it had a
reflective surface which was assumed to be oil.

Comments
The water was pale brown in colour

 There was high presence of vegetation and wildlife

There was signs of human influence eg. The deeyas , film of oil on the
surface
It was located in a residential area
Follow up Activities: The class proceeded to another site to conduct more water
quality tests.

Entry #4
Date:
Site Location: Guaracara River
Background:
The Guaracara River was one of the rivers that was used to transport sugar in the
late 1700s. It is located in south Trinidad and run westward out of the central
range and drains into the gulf of paria. It is the boundary between the city of
Sanfernando and the Couva-Tabaquite-Talparo Regional Corporation. Basiclly it
separates Marabella and Point-a-Pierre. It is approximately 8 metres above sea
level and also a tributary of the Gulf of Paria.The river is highly polluted by
agricultural and residential surface run off from marabella and Gasparillo , and
from industrial waste from the oil refinery at Point a Pierre.
Objectives:
To observe the natural and/or anthropogenic activities that may influence
the river.
To observe flora and fauna present at the river.
To determine the effect of urbanization on the river by conducting water
quality tests.

Activities:

Carried out by class:

Observations of Flora , fauna , colour of the water and the surrounding
environment were made.
Various Tests were carried out on water samples at different points in the
river to test water quality
Site used for:
Waste disposal/ runoff from an oil refinery at Pointe-a-Pierre.
Waste water disposal from the nearby community.
Recreational fishing
Observation:
The river was dark brown in colour. On the surface of the river a thin layer of an
unknown shiny substance was observerd. Slight vegetation was observed as we
walked along the length of the river. The effect of human activities greatly affected
the water as it looked polluted. A few empty bottles and food containers were
observed floating on the surface of the water and there was a fould scent emanating
from the river water.
.
Comments:
This river was highly polluted.
There was surface runoff from a community and refinery plant in close
proximity to and leading into the river.
The water was opaque and dirty brown in colour.
The river was located in a highly urbanized area.
Follow up Activities: The class proceeded to another site to conduct more water
quality tests.

Entry #5
Date:
Site Location: Diego Martin River.

Background:
The Diego Martin River is a stream and is located in Diego Martin , Trinidad. It is
approximately 29 metres above sea level and also it is another tributary of the Gulf
of Paria. Initially the Diego Martin River had huge mangrove deltas west of
Cocorite which could accommodate the large volumes of water but recently the
area was urbanized with concrete buildings and asphalt which are unable to contain
water and therefore causing flooding Dieogo Martin is an urban commercial
centre and is in the refion just west of the capital city of Trinidad , Port of Spain
and east of the town of Carenage. In 1835 a wheel was built of cast iron and was
used to power the rollers that crushed sugar canes from the river estate lands. The
water for turning the wheel came from the Diego Martin River.
OBJECTIVES
To observe the natural and/or anthropogenic activities that may influence
the river.
To observe flora and fauna present at the river.

 To determine the effect of urbanization on the river by conducting water

quality tests.

Activities:
Carried out by class:
Observations of Flora , fauna , colour of the water and the surrounding
environment were made.
Various Tests were carried out on water samples at different points in the
river to test water quality

Site used for:

Waste disposel from businesses.
Water being used for the disposal of waste by both residents and commercial
activities
Residential Areas along the river banks
Drains and sewer lines flowing into the river
Industrial facility located nearby
Water and Sewage Authority (WASA) plant closely located in the area
Observations:
The river water was mostly clear and clean.Slight vegetation was seen as we
walked along the length of the river. Many pipelines were running into the river
and most of the surrounding land were developed or cleared for preparation to be
developed / urbanized since little to no wildlife was seen around the river however
some aquatic life was seen in the river.
Comments:
This river is a perfect example of a river located in an urban area.
Little vegetation seen due to the fact that the land was cleared to be
developed

 The water was colourless

Little wildlife was observed around the river itself some aquatic life was
seen.
Pipelines were seen running into the river that could have been use for
disposal.
From the graphs it was observed that the Diego Martin river was not
severely polluted and only did not meet international standards for levels of
salinity. This could be because of the amount of detergents and contaminants
from house hold products, coming from drains and sewer lines along the
river.

Follow up Activities: The class proceeded to another site to conduct more water
quality tests.
Entry #6
Date:
Site Location: Blue River/Aripe River

Background:
Blue River is also referred to as the Aripe River and is a stream found in San
Juan/Laventille , Trinidad. The estimate terrain elevation is approximately 5 metres
above seas level and is also another tributary of the Gulf of Paria.

Objectives:
To observe the natural and/or anthropogenic activities that may influence
the river.
To observe flora and fauna present at the river.
To determine the effect of urbanization on the river by conducting water
quality tests.

Activities:
Carried out by class:
Observations of Flora , fauna , colour of the water and the surrounding
environment were made.
Various Tests were carried out on water samples at different points in the
river to test water quality

Observation:
The water was pale brown in colour and slight vegetation was observered at
specific points along the rivers length while some areas were cleared down and
vegetation removed to facilitate development. Some wildlife was seen, mainly
birds and at one point in the river a pipeline was seen running from a small
business into the river. Some degree of pollution was seen ad there were some
bottles and plastics floating in the river.

Comments:

The water was pale in colour.

Wildlife and vegetation were seen as we walked along the rivers length
The river was located in an urbanized area.
Pipelines were seen leading into the river from a small business
Water was stagnant which led to a high presence of mosquitoes.

Follow up Activities: The class proceeded to another site to conduct more water
quality test.

Entry#7
Date:
Site Location: Gran Couva River
Background:
The Gran Couva River can be located in Gran Couva Trinidad and is a tributary of
the Gulf of Paria. Gran Couva is internationally know for its Trinitario Cocoa and
is part of the Montserrt hills in the Central Range of Trinidad where the
combination of the trinitatrio cocoa , the weather and the soil coverage it makes the
finest cocoa in the world. Valrhona , a French chocolate sources it cocoa from
Gran Couva in order to manufacture their chocolate bars.

Objectives:
To observe the natural and/or anthropogenic activities that may influence
the river.
To observe flora and fauna present at the river.
To determine the effect of urbanization on the river by conducting water
quality tests.

Activities:
Carried out by class:
Observations of Flora , fauna , colour of the water and the surrounding
environment were made.
Various Tests were carried out on water samples at different points in the
river to test water quality

Site used for:

Recreational Fishing.

Observation:
The water was colourless. There was a high presence of vegetation such as grass,
trees and bamboo, there was also an abundance of wildlife such as birds, insects
and small land animals as even a possum was seen. It appeared as though there was
was no anthropogenic influence as no pipelines were sited.

Comments:

The river was situation in a rural village

The water was colourless
There was an abundance of vegetation
There was an abundance of wildlife
It had an absence of anthropogenic influence

Follow up activities: The results from all the sites visits were collated and
organized into lab reports.

TITLE: LAB #1
AIM: TO TEST FOR SALINITY, PH, TEMP, CONDUCTIVITY, DISSOLVED
O2, USING THE YSI55 DIGITAL METRE.
MATERIALS: Bucket, YSI55 metre , Distilled water.
METHOD:
1.The calibrated probe was removed from the YSI55 casing and then lowered into
the water.
2. Readings of dissolved oxygen, concentration, temperature, pH conductivity,
salinity were taken.
3. The probe was then pulled up and washed with distilled water and replaced.
4.Steps 1-3 were repeated for 2 other points along the river.
DATA COLLECTION/ RESULTS
BLUE RIVER
PARAMETE TEST TEST TEST AVERAG
R
1
2
3
E
Temperature
C
28.1
27.5 28.1
27.90
pH
6.9
6.72 7.14
6.92
Conductivity
S
268
276 271
271.67

INTERNATION
AL STANDARD
23-30
6.5-9.0
below 1500-1800

Salinity ppm
Dissolved O
mg/L

128

137

132

132.33

7.84

7.65

8.11

7.87

500
at 28 degrees
Celsius 7.8

CAPARO RIVER
PARAMETE TEST TEST TEST AVERAG
R
1
2
3
E
Temperature
C
26.1
27.2
24.6
25.97
pH
6.72
7.1
6.9
6.91
Conductivity
S
881
795
956
877.33
Salinity ppm
619
581
640
613.33
Dissolved O
mg/L
3.14
4.2
4.3
3.88

INTERNATION
AL STANDARD
23-30
6.5-9.0
below 1500-1800
500
at 26 degrees
Celsius 8.1

CAPARO RIVER
PARAMETE TEST TEST TEST AVERAG
R
1
2
3
E
Temperature
C
26.1
27.2
24.6
25.97
pH
6.72
7.1
6.9
6.91
Conductivity
S
881
795
956
877.33
Salinity ppm
619
581
640
613.33
Dissolved O
mg/L
3.14
4.2
4.3
3.88

INTERNATION
AL STANDARD
23-30
6.5-9.0
below 1500-1800
500
at 26 degrees
Celsius 8.1

DIEGO MARTIN RIVER

PARAMETE TEST TEST TEST AVERAG
R
1
2
3
E
Temperature
C
27.4
24.8
25.1
25.77
pH
6.9
7.71
7.5
7.37
Conductivity
S
1965 1878 1184 1675.67
Salinity ppm
957
852
911
906.67
Dissolved O
mg/L
6.4
6.1
5.8
6.10

INTERNATION
AL STANDARD
23-30
6.5-9.0
below 1500-1800
500
at 26 degrees
Celsius 8.1

GRAN COUVA
TEST
INTERNATIONAL
PARAMETER TEST1 TEST2 3
AVERAGE
STANDARD
Temperature
C
25.2
27.6
25.76
26.19
23-30
pH
7.3
7.08
7.5
7.29
6.5-9.0
Conductivity
S
221
218.6
197.5
212.37
below 1500-1800
Salinity ppm
111.3
110.2
97.5
106.33
500
Dissolved O
at 26 degrees Celsius
mg/L
9.24
8.57
9.12
8.98
8.1

GUARACARA RIVER

PARAMETE TEST TEST TEST AVERAG

R
1
2
3
E
Temperature
C
30
29.2 31.2
30.13
pH
5.15
5.4 5.28
5.28
Conductivity 3357. 3412. 3245.
S
1
3
5
3338.30
Salinity ppm
2000
1900 1875
1925.00
Dissolved O
mg/L
4.81
4.87 4.9
4.86

INTERNATION
AL STANDARD
23-30
6.5-9.0
below 1500-1800
500
at 30 degrees
Celsius 7.6

ST. ANN'S
PARAMETE TEST TEST TEST AVERAG
R
1
2
3
E
Temperature
C
25.3
25.1 25.6
25.33
pH
7.8
8.3 7.9
8.00
Conductivity
S
1521
912 864.3
1099.10
Salinity ppm
498
512 487
499.00
Dissolved O
mg/L
5.9
6.4 4.2
5.50

INTERNATION
AL STANDARD
23-30
6.5-9.0
below 1500-1800
500
at 25 degrees
Celsius 8.3

DISCUSSIONWater quality refers to the chemical, physical and biological characteristics

of water. It is a measure of the condition of water relative to the requirements of
one or more biotic species and or to any human need or purpose. The most
common standards used to assess water quality relate to health of ecosystems,
safety of human contact and drinking water. Water pollution refers to the
contamination of water bodies such as rivers, oceans, lakes, and groundwater
caused by human activities. This can be harmful aquatic life in these water bodies..
Water pollution occurs when pollutants are discharged directly or indirectly into
water bodies without proper treatment to remove harmful compounds.Salinity
refers to the total concentration of salt ions in the water. The pH of water is how
acidic or alkali it with 7 being neutral and anything below 7 being acidic and above

it being alkaline.. Conductivity is the measure of the ability of water to carry an

electrical current. [D0] is a measure of the amount of dissolved oxygen in water.

CONCLUSIONThe experiment was carried out and successfully completed and the results were
compared with their international standard. From the comparison it was concluded
that the Guaracuara river was found to be the most polluted, not meeting any of the
international standards.
TITLE:LAB #2
AIM : TEST FOR NITRATES
MATERIALS: test tube, mixed acid reagent, nitrate reducing agent, nitrate-N &
phosphate comparator bar, 0.1g spoon, stopwatch.
METHOD:
1.The test tube was filled to 2.5mL with sample water.
2. Mixed acid reagent was used to dilute to 5mL line, which was then capped and
mixed for 2 minutes.
3. The 0.1g spoon was used to add one level measure of nitrate reducing agent,
which was then capped and inverted 60 times in one minute, and waited on for 10
minutes.
4. The cap was mixed and removed. The test tube was then inserted into the low
range comparator with the nitrate- N and Phosphate comparator bar. The sample
colour was then matched to a colour standard. This was recorded as ppm Nitrate-N.
5. The result was converted to nitrate by multiplying reading by 4.4.This was
recorded as ppm nitrate.
DATA COLLECTION/ RESULTS
TEST FOR NITRATES
River

Test
1

Test2 Test3 Average

International
Standard

Cipero
Guaracar
a
Diego
Martin
Caparo
St. Ann's
Gran
Couva
Blue
River

0.06

0.04

0.00

0.03

1 ml /L

0.05

0.02

0.10

0.06

1 ml /L

0.02
0.00
0.04

0.10
0.10
0.20

0.03
0.00
0.06

0.05
0.03
0.10

1 ml /L
1 ml /L
1 ml /L

0.03

0.02

0.03

0.03

1 ml /L

0.06

0.06

0.20

0.11

1 ml /L

DISCUSSIONWater quality refers to the chemical, physical and biological characteristics

of water. It is a measure of the condition of water relative to the requirements of
one or more biotic species and or to any human need or purpose. The most
common standards used to assess water quality relate to health of ecosystems,
safety of human contact and drinking water. Water pollution refers to the
contamination of water bodies such as rivers, oceans, lakes, and groundwater
caused by human activities. This can be harmful to plants aquatic life in these
water bodies.. Water pollution occurs when pollutants are discharged directly or
indirectly into water bodies without proper treatment to remove harmful
compounds. . Nitrogen is a nutrient which acts as fertilizers for the aquatic plants.
If these nutrient levels get too high then plant algae growth would increase and
water quality problems would arise. Human and animal waste , decomposing
organic matter and surface run-off are the main ways nitrogen get into water
courses. Often the nitrogen (N) comes from ammonia (NH3) or ammonium
(NH4).Waters that are unpolluted have nitrate levels below 4ppm or in
concentration of 1ml per litre. If over 4ppm then the water becomes unsafe for
drinking and cannot sustain aquatic life.

CONCLUSIONThe experiment was carried out and successfully completed and the results were
compared with their international standard From the comparison it was concluded
that all rivers were below the international standard.

TITLE: LAB#3
AIM: TEST FOR PHOSPHATES
MATERIALS: test tube, pipette, phosphate reducing reagent, low range
comparator, Nitrate- N & Phosphate low range comparator bar.
METHOD:
1.The test tube was filled to the 10mL line with sample water.
2. The 1.0 mL pipette was used to add 1.0 mL of phosphate acid reagent, which
was then capped and mixed.
3.The second 0.1 spoon was used to add one level measure of phosphate reducing
reagent, which was then capped and mixed until dissolved then waited on for 5
minutes.
4. Cap was removed and placed into the low range comparator with the nitrate-N &
Phosphate low range comparator bar. The sample colour was then matched to a
colour standard, and recorded as ppm phosphate.

DATA COLLECTION/ RESULTS

TEST FOR PHOSPHATES
River

Test
1

Test2 Test3 Average

International
Standard

Cipero
Guaracar
a
Diego
Martin
Caparo
St. Ann's
Gran
Couva
Blue
River

1.50

1.00

1.00

1.17

0.2 mgP/litre

1.00

1.00

1.00

1.00

0.2 mgP/litre

0.60
0.60
0.75

0.65
0.70
0.50

0.50
0.60
0.50

0.58
0.63
0.58

0.2 mgP/litre
0.2 mgP/litre
0.2 mgP/litre

0.30

0.35

0.35

0.33

0.2 mgP/litre

0.40

0.50

0.40

0.43

0.2 mgP/litre

DISCUSSIONWater quality refers to the chemical, physical and biological characteristics

of water. It is a measure of the condition of water relative to the requirements of
one or more biotic species and or to any human need or purpose. The most
common standards used to assess water quality relate to health of ecosystems,
safety of human contact and drinking water. Water pollution refers to the
contamination of water bodies such as rivers, oceans, lakes, and groundwater
caused by human activities. This can be harmful to plants aquatic life in these
water bodies.. Water pollution occurs when pollutants are discharged directly or
indirectly into water bodies without proper treatment to remove harmful
compound. Phosphates enter waterways from human and animal waste,
phosphorus rich bedrock, laundry, cleaning, industrial effluents, and fertilizer
runoff. These phosphates become detrimental when they over fertilize aquatic
plants and cause stepped up eutrophication. Eutrophication is the natural aging
process of a body of water such as a bay or lake. This process results from the
increase of nutrients within the body of water which, in turn, create plant growth.
The plants die more quickly than they can be decomposed. If too much phosphate
is present in the water the algae and weeds will grow rapidly, may choke the
waterway, and use up large amounts of precious oxygen (in the absence of
photosynthesis and as the algae and plants die and are consumed by aerobic
bacteria.) The result may be the death of many fish and aquatic organisms.

Rainfall can cause varying amounts of phosphates to wash from farm soils into
nearby waterways. Phosphate will stimulate the growth of plankton and aquatic
plants which provide food for fish. This may cause an increase in the fish
population and improve the overall water quality. However, if an excess of
phosphate enters the waterway; algae and aquatic plants will grow wildly, choke up
the waterway and use up large amounts of oxygen. This condition is known as
eutrophication or over-fertilization of receiving waters. This rapid growth of
aquatic vegetation eventually dies and as it decays it uses up oxygen. This process
in turn causes the death of aquatic life because of the lowering of dissolved oxygen
levels.

CONCLUSIONThe experiment was successfully carried out and completed and the results
collected were compared to those of the international standard value. From the
comparison it was concluded that all rivers were found to be over the international
standard for phosphates and it was due to the amount of urbanization taking place.

TITLE: LAB#4
AIM: TEST FOR DISSOLVED NITRITE NITROGEN
MATERIALS: test tube, mixed acid reagent, 0.1g spoon, colour developing
reagent, nitrite nitrogen octaslide 2 bar, octa slide 2 viewer, nitrite nitrogen, stop
watch.
METHOD:
1.Thetest tube was filled to the 2.5 mL line with the water sample.
2. The sample was then diluted to the 5mL line with mixed acid reagent.
3. The 0.1g spoon was used to add 0.1g of colour developing reagent.
4. The sample was then capped and mixed by inverting for one minute.
5. 5 minutes was allowed to pass.
6. Nitrite nitrogen octaslide 2 bar was inserted into the octa slide 2 viewer.
7.The test tube was inserted into octa slide 2 viewer (1101).
8. The sample colour was matched to colour standard. Results were recorded as
pm Nitrite Nitrogen.

9. The results were multiplied by 3.3 to convert to nitrite, and recorded as ppm
Nitrite.

DATA COLLECTION/RESULTS
TEST FOR DISSOLVED NITRITE NITROGEN
River
Cipero
Guaracar
a
Diego
Martin
Caparo
St. Ann's
Gran
Couva
Blue
River

Test
1
0.05

Test2 Test3 Average

0.05 0.05
0.05

International
Standard
0.02 (mg/L)

0.05

0.05

0.05

0.05

0.02 (mg/L)

0.05
0.05
0.05

0.05
0.05
0.05

0.05
0.05
0.05

0.05
0.05
0.05

0.02 (mg/L)
0.02 (mg/L)
0.02 (mg/L)

0.05

0.05

0.05

0.05

0.02 (mg/L)

0.05

0.05

0.05

0.05

0.02 (mg/L)

DISCUSSIONWater quality refers to the chemical, physical and biological characteristics

of water. It is a measure of the condition of water relative to the requirements of
one or more biotic species and or to any human need or purpose. The most

common standards used to assess water quality relate to health of ecosystems,

safety of human contact and drinking water. Water pollution refers to the
contamination of water bodies such as rivers, oceans, lakes, and groundwater
caused by human activities. This can be harmful to plants aquatic life in these
water bodies.. Water pollution occurs when pollutants are discharged directly or
indirectly into water bodies without proper treatment to remove harmful
compound. Nitrates and nitrites are nitrogen-oxygen chemical units which combine
with various organic and inorganic compounds. Infants below six months who
drink water containing nitrite in excess of the maximum contaminant level (MCL)
could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness
of breath and blue baby syndrome. Nitrite is a potential problem in aquatic
environments. Freshwater fish actively take up nitrite across the gills, leading to
high internal concentrations. Seawater fish are less susceptible but do take up
nitrite across intestine and gills. Nitrite has multiple physiological effects. Its
uptake is at the expense of chloride, leading to chloride depletion. Nitrite also
activates efflux of potassium from skeletal muscle and erythrocytes, disturbing
intracellular and extracellular K(+) levels. Nitrite transfer across the erythrocytic
membrane leads to oxidation of haemoglobin to methaemoglobin (metHb),
compromising blood O(2) transport. Other haem proteins are also oxidised.
Hyperventilation is observed, and eventually tissue O(2) shortage becomes
reflected in elevated lactate concentrations. Heart rate increases rapidly, before any
significant elevations in metHb or extracellular potassium occur.

CONCLUSION :
The experiment was carried out successfully completed and the results collected
were compared to the international standard values. From the comparison it was
concluded that all rivers were above the international standard.

TITLE: LAB # 5
AIM: TEST FOR BIOLOGICAL OXYGEN DEMAND (BOD)
MATERIALS: 7 water bottles, foil, YSI55 metre
METHOD:
The seven 300mL water bottles were filled with water, each from one of the test
sites. The bottles were wrapped in foil to prevent photosynthesis and stored in the
dark for 5 days at approximately 20 degrees Celsius. After day 5, the samples were
tested for dissolved oxygen using the YSI55. The final reading for DO after day 5
was subtracted from the initial reading for DO at each site to give a value for
biological oxygen demand.
DATA COLLECTION/ RESULTS
TEST FOR BIOLOGICAL OXYGEN DEMAND
River

Initial
DO

DO after
Day5

BOD

Cipero

7.74

1.82

5.92

International
Standard
5 milligrams
per liter

Guaracar
a
Diego
Martin

4.86

0.30

4.83

6.10

2.48

3.62

Caparo

3.80

0.41

3.39

St. Ann's
Gran
Couva
Blue
River

5.50

1.90

3.60

8.97

6.02

2.95

7.86

5.26

2.60

5 milligrams
per liter
5 milligrams
per liter
5 milligrams
per liter
5 milligrams
per liter
5 milligrams
per liter
5 milligrams
per liter

DISCUSSIONBiological oxygen demand (BOD) refers to the amount of oxygen that would be
consumed if all the organics in one litre of water were oxidised by bacteria.
Bacteria would thrive if there is a large quantity of organic waste in the water
supply. This in turn increases the demand for oxygen. Nitrates and phosphates in
water are also factors which contribute to high Biological Oxygen Demand.
Nitrates and phosphorus are plant nutrients and therefore would promote plant and
algae growth and when these plants die they contribute to organic waste in water.
The phosphate and nitrates would allow plants to grow quickly which means as
fast as they die they grow as fast which means there is a constant increase in
organic waste. Bacteria begins to decompose the organic waste and therefore the
BOD level rises. When BOD increases the concentration of dissolved oxygen
decreases and as the oxygen levels are depleted the fishes and other aquatic would
be unable to survive.

CONCLUSION

The experiment was carried out and successfully completed and the results
collected were compared with their international standard values. From the
comparison it was concluded that only the cipero river was above the international
standard.

DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
Of all the sites visited and tested Guaracara river was proved to have the highest
salinity level. This is because the Guaracara river is bordered by the Pont a Pierre
oil refinery and many urban districts such as Marabella and Gasparillo. The
presence of these urban districts cause the high salinity levels due to the fact that
sewer lines , pipes and drains from these urban areas all lead to the river whereby
releasing household products , oil from cars and detergents. The factors combined
with the refinery in close proximity to the river explains why salinity levels in the
Guaracara River are so high. At the gran couva river the lowest salinity level was
recorded and this was because the surround area wasnt urbanized compared to all
the other areas visited and since there is less urbanization the effect of pollution
from chemicals from household products and detergents would leave salinity levels
low.
According to the websters online dictionary temperature is a measurement in
degrees showing the heat of something. The Oil refinery and the urban areas that
was in close proximity to the guaracara river was the reason for the river having
the highest temperature to be recorded from all the sites visited as pollution from
those areas were high. At the St. Anns River the lowest temperature was recorded

but it was suspected that this was so due to the higher level of rain compared to the
other rivers. Although it is suspected one thing that can be sure is that the the
northern range which dispenses it water to the river has a higher level of rainfall
compared to other areas around Trinidad. Due to the water coming from the
northern range the temperature of the St Anns river was lowest.

The physical factors that affect the amount of dissolved O are

temperature, salinity and stream structure. As we look at the
results it shows that Gran Couva River has the highest amount of
dissolved oxygen. Compared to the other sites Gran Couva river
had much less evidence of urbanization then the other sites
visited. Due to little urbanizations the salinity level and
temperature is not affected and therefore more oxygen is able to
be dissolved. Since Caparo was the most urbanized area the
lowest concentration of dissolved oxygen was recorded due to the
many pollutants flowing into the Caparo River whereby affecting
the salinity level and temperature and so oxygen is unable to
dissolve readily. From the results Guaracara River was shown to
have the highes conductivity which was easily explained by the
high salinity level. The Gran Couva River on the other hand had
the lowest salinity which in turn caused it to have the least
conductivity. It can be said that the conductivity of the rivers was
affected by the salinity level.

According to chemistry.about.com it shows that pH is a measure

of acidity or alkalinity of a solution. Once again due to Guaracara
River being the most urbanized area with a refinery , it is
exposed to a high level of pollution making its water is the most
acidic. St Anns on the other hand had the most alkaline water as
it was urbanized with a high population therefore there would be
a lot of disposal and drainage of household chemicals and

detergents which are alkalis therefore reducing the pH of the

water.
Dissolved oxygen refers to the amount of oxygen dissolved in a litre of water.
From the results none of the rivers had acceptable concentration of dissolved
oxygen. Dissolved oxygen depends on the Biochemical oxygen demand of water
and also the amount of organic decomposers present in the water which are
necessary to decompose organic material. Blue river had the highest amount of
dissolved oxygen and the least was present in the Cipero and Caparo rivers. These
results show that Blue River was more affected by agricultural runoff and is highly
influenced by pollutants from agricultural practices. The results obtained are
important in showing and proving how nearby agricultural runoff and human
activities leads to decreased oxygen levels which make the river less sustainable
for aquatic life.

RECOMMENDATIONS
Development of more adequate water treatment plants - Better plans
should be enforced at rivers close to urbanized areas due to the fact that
urban areas tend to discharge a lot of pollution which makes the rivers
unsuitable for any use.
Implementation of new laws- The new laws would prevent persons from
disposing their waste into these rivers whereby protecting them from any
harmful substances that could affect their quality and aquatic life would be
able to thrive and suitable for enjoying recreationally
Educating the population- The population should be educated about the
effects of pollution and ways to prevent them because they are the main
contributors to pollution in rivers.
Strict penalties If there are strict penalties for those caught polluting rivers
then everyone would think twice before polluting them.
Registration of all industrial activity in close proximity to rivers All industrial activity along water ways should be registered
and
monitored, in accordance with local and international
environmental laws.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

BOOKS :
Philips Certificate Atlas for the Caribbean (2000) London, Great
Britain Philips
Environmental Science for the Caribbean by Navindra Ramsaroop

INTERNET :

http://www.trinoutdoors.com/pages/other%20places.htm
http://water.epa.gov/drink/contaminants/basicinformation/nitrite.cfm
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12727546
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/temperature
http://chemistry.about.com/od/chemistryglossary/a/phdef.htm
http://chennette.net/2011/01/30/gran-couva-cocoa-and-la-vega/
http://www.ima.gov.tt/home/images/pdf/land_cover_changes_in_caroni_swa
mp_in_trinidad.pdf

OTHER SOURCES

Trinidad and Tobago : State of the Environment 1998 Report.

A CASE STUDY IN POLLUTION IN A MAJOR RIVER CATCHMENT, TRINIDAD

by WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT.