Consequences of Agricultural Activities on Groundwater Quality

Water is arguably the most important resources of the earth. Of global water resources about 97.2% is salt water mainly in oceans, and only 2.8% freshwater - 2.2% surface water while 0.6% is available as groundwater. Scientists recognize that quality of water is just as important as its quantity which makes groundwater monitoring crucial. Assessment and management of the water resources, of any region is being increasingly realized at all levels. However, communities have a great potential for agriculture which is a major non point source of water pollution. In this book, sampling which is one of the scientifically designed surveillance system to monitor groundwater quality was carried out. Parameters were tested in situ and mainly in the laboratory to find traces of contaminants. The distinction between pollution and contamination has been debated by scientist over the years but in this book pollution shall signify degradation of natural water quality, while contamination shall be reserved for pollution that constitutes a hazard to human health. The book is relevant for students and professionals of hydrology, ecology, engineering, environmental experts and public health.