Assessing the environmental impact of water runoff at selected sites in Gozo

Abstract

The marine coastal environment is largely affected by both by sea-based activities as well as land use in the catchment areas. Water runoff acts as the main connection between land and sea which carries a considerable load of substances, usually pollutants, thus significantly contributing to marine quality. This study aimed at assessing the extent to which water runoff impacts the marine environment at Mgarr Harbour, Mgarr ix-Xini, Xlendi, Dwejra, Marsalforn and Ramla in Gozo Seasonal monitoring of various water quality parameters, nutrient levels and faecal coliform concentration was conducted at designated stations in the mentioned coastal areas during June 2010, October 2010 and March/April 2011. Superficial marine sediments from the six locations were also sampled in June 2010 and March/April 2011 so as to identify levels of heavy metals (zinc, lead, cadmium and copper), petroleum hydrocarbons and total organic carbon.