PHYSIO-CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF WATARI IRRIGATION WATER

Much of the interpretation of results of water analysis is based on a prediction of the consequences for the soil. Typically, the quality of irrigation water is assessed based on the salt contents and salt inducing parameters, abundance of nutrients, trace elements, alkalinity, acidity, hardness and the amount of suspended solids. The physiochemical properties of the Watari irrigation water were assessed and the Findings indicated that the mean pH of water ranged from 7.10 to 7.50, while the EC values across the sectors ranged from 50 to 60?S/m. Metal cations in the water ranged from 15.00 to 20.07; 5.41 to 16.22; 3.29 to 6.57; 14.83 to 15.00cmol/l for Na, Ca, Mg and K respectively. The SAR ranged from 6.87 to 10.17, while the range of TDS values was from 31.00 to 36.00mg/l. The mean carbonates concentration detected in the irrigation water was from 4.00 to 12.00cmol/l, while the mean bicarbonate content ranged from 22.00 to 55.00cmol/l. Chloride and nitrate were within 9.87 to 31.58 and 1.00 to 1.65mg/kg, respectively. The residual sodium carbonate (RSC) ranged from 8.00 to 30.69.There was no detectable NH4 in the irrigation water. It was recommended that adequate drainage with emphasis on surface drainage should be provided to reduce the risk of salinity whereas salt and sodium build up should be monitored regularly.