Preliminary results of a water quality baseline study of lingayen gulf

Abstract

A water quality baseline study was conducted in Lingayen Gulf to serve as a basis in formulating a general water quality management plan for the area. This paper presents initial results of the study based on data collected from 21 off- shore, estuarine and river stations between March 1987 and March 1988. General water quality parameters were deter- mined, namely, hydrogen ion concentration (pH), temperature, salinity, transparency, suspended solids and dissolved oxygen. Nutrients (nitrite-nitrogen, nitrate-nitrogen and total phosphorus) and heavy metals (lead, zinc, cadmium and mercury) were also analyzed. The results indicate possible issues/problems related to siltation, domestic pollution and eutrophication from increased population/urbanization and various economic activities. Three rivers draining into the gulf (Patalan, Dagupan and Agno) are deemed important in the formulation of a management scheme. Recommenda- tions pertinent to the issues identified are briefly discussed.