Monitoring of heavy metals for assessing water quality in Southern Bug basin
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26565/2410-7360-2026-64-29Keywords:
environmental monitoring, river water pollution, pH value, heavy metal pollution, seasonal pollution dynamics, hydro-ecosystems, environmental safety, regulatory value, anthropogenic pressure, river basinsAbstract
Introduction. The article presents the results of comprehensive studies on the chemical composition of river waters in the Southern Bug River basin (central Ukraine), formed under the influence of combined natural geochemical processes and anthropogenic pressure. As the main water artery of the central region, the river serves as a key source of domestic and drinking water supply and acts as a strategic resource for ensuring the state’s energy and food security. Monitoring this system is essential for forecasting changes in water discharge and quality under climate challenges.
The purpose of the article. The aim of the study is to identify spatio-temporal patterns of heavy metal distribution in the waters of the Southern Bug basin and to assess their impact on water quality and the environmental safety of river ecosystems.
Data and methods. A comprehensive approach was applied, including hydrochemical monitoring, analysis of seasonal pH fluctuations, determination of iron, copper, and manganese concentrations, and evaluation of the influence of natural and anthropogenic factors (precipitation, land use, redox potential).
Results. Groundwater, which accumulates degradation products of crystalline rocks of the Ukrainian Shield, was found to be the primary source of river recharge. Spatial heterogeneity of water composition is caused by varying mineralization of aquifers. Zones of the most intense technogenic impact were identified. Seasonal pH fluctuations (6.5–8.76) regulate solubility, migration, and toxicity of heavy metals. Iron concentrations (0.2–0.36 mg/dm³) exceeded regulatory values during spring floods, while copper remained relatively stable (0.0013–0.095 mg/dm³). Manganese concentrations reached 0.12 mg/dm³, exceeding standards due to both natural and anthropogenic factors, including mobilization from sediments under changing redox and temperature regimes. The intensity of metal leaching correlated with precipitation and agricultural land use.
The scientific novelty. For the first time, a correlation between seasonal pH fluctuations and heavy metal concentrations was established for the Southern Bug basin, determining water quality and ecological stability of the river system.
Practical significance. The identified patterns of spatio-temporal metal distribution provide a scientific basis for developing environmental protection measures aimed at reducing anthropogenic impacts, preventing secondary pollution, and ensuring sustainable functioning of the Southern Bug basin. The proposed approaches can be applied to optimize the regional environmental monitoring system for water resources.
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