Dimensions of water contamination in the subprovinces of Adana province, Turkey

Aim: To determine the dimension of the contamination of the drinking and utility water in the touristic Bahçe district of the Karataş subprovince of Adana province, and to share our views on how to raise the quality of the water in the district. Materials and methods: In 2007 and 2008, 80 samples were taken 8 times, on a seasonal basis, from the drinking water and sea water of the Bahçe district. Eleven organic and inorganic parameters were measured and presented following a comparison with criteria values Results: Ni, Zn, Cu, Pb, NO3-N, COD, and phenol contamination parameters were found to be high in the stations that provide drinking water and utility water for the Bahçe district. Conclusion: This level of contamination was attributed to the extensive use of natural and artificial fertilizers and pesticide, agricultural contamination, and the fact that polluters were not at a safe distance from the stations and were particularly hazardous types of polluters. It is of the utmost importance that training be provided in order to ensure use of fertilizers and pesticides in standard amounts and at standard times. The training should be supported with warnings and inspections.