Assessment of the Microbiological Indicators of the River Water Used for Irrigation in the Field of Korca

Today, pollution of ecosystems from various sources constitutes one of the most significant concerns in our society. The objective of this study is to evaluate the microbiological quality of the Devoll and Dunavec rivers using key indicators to determine their suitability for agricultural irrigation and food safety. The river water quality for agricultural purposes is evaluated through physical, chemical, and biological indicators. It is estimated that the primary contamination of agricultural products, especially vegetables, by pathogens originates from water. Microbiological indicators are quite important for assessing water quality for agricultural purposes as well as for identifying various pollutants. The present study utilized standard analytical methods to evaluate the most important microbiological and chemical indicators in the waters of the Devoll and Dunavec rivers. Based on the analyzed data of microbiological and chemical indicators such as Escherichia coli, Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD₅), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and Total Suspended Solids (TSS), the waters of the Devoll and Dunavec rivers are classified as Class 2. These waters are not suitable for food crops to be consumed fresh, where the edible parts are in direct contact with the water, or for root crops that are consumed raw. Overall, the waters of these rivers are considered suitable for irrigating other crops. The study's reliance on microbiological indicators of the waters of the Devoll and Dunavec rivers identified potential sources of pollution, contributing so in determining pathways for improving ecosystems and food safety.