A Study of Fecal Contamination of Cagayan de Oro River Along the Upstream (Lumbia) and the Factors Affecting Contamination, August 2008-March 2009

The main objective of this study was to determine the extent of fecal contamination of Cagayan de Oro River along Barangay Lumbia. The study was conducted from August 2008 to March 2009. Taking samples of the river was done to identify the presence of fecal coliform in the 3 different sampling periods done every first week of the month as well as confirm the presence of the indicator organism Escherichia coli. The water samples were collected approximately 25 meters from the sides. Proper collection procedures were followed in order to obtain accurate analytical results. The Multiple Tube Fermentation Technique which consisted of the Presumptive Phase, Confirmed Phase, and Completed Phase. A survey was also conducted to determine possible factors that contribute to fecal contamination of the river. In Barangay Lumbia the results showed a high mean MPN value of 3,500 fecal coliform/100ml, followed by an increased value of 5,400 fecal coliform/100ml, and a decreased value of 1,300 fecal coliform/100ml. The total coliform values computed showed fluctuating average MPN score from all the samples which exceeded the standard acceptable value set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources water quality guidelines (DENR) at 1000 fecal coliform organisms/ 100ml. The results revealed that the river near Barangay Lumbia is fecally contaminated. It indicates a threat to the residents in the area since it is infested with many bacteria and other types of microorganisms which could lead to diarrhea and other types of diseases. The factors that may have contributed to the river’s fecal contamination were: the improper disposal of animal manure in the river, the number of comfort rooms having no appropriate drainage allowing it to directly drain into the river, and the discarding of human wastes on the river for those who don’t have comfort rooms.

 

Keywords - Fecal contamination, E. coli, River, Barangay Lumbia