Spatial and temporal variations in water quality trends concerning land use dynamics and environmental management

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Water quality is a major global environmental concern because the impact of land use changes on water quality is usually studied by analyzing the relationships between water quality and land use indicators. Jordan is among the countries with the most limited water resources, grappling with climate change, increasing pressure from groundwater depletion, and a rising population. This situation calls for immediate action and sustainable water management. This study aims to assess spatial and temporal variations in water quality in northwestern Irbid between 2006 and 2023, as well as examining the impact of the land use dynamics and environmental management on water quality metrics and trends using geographic information system-based analysis. METHODS: This study evaluated water quality changes in northwestern Irbid by analyzing selected physicochemical characteristics from several water source sampling sites for 2006 and 2023. These are electrical conductivity, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, chloride, sulfate and nitrate. The analysis of spatial and temporal aspects was executed, leading to the classification of physicochemical water quality changes into improved, declined, or stable. Geographic information system-based analysis for spatial distribution and temporal changes was applied. The dynamics of land use changes and management were explored to propose the potential basic causes of the observed variations in water quality. This holistic approach supports the creation of data-informed water management strategies for the locality and delivers a detailed comprehension of water quality patterns. FINDINGS: The findings indicate that the change concentrations of electrical conductivity, potassium, sodium, magnesium, bicarbonate sulfate and chloride are increased at several sites across the study area. In contrast, the concentrations of nitrate, sulfate, and calcium have diminished in specific locations. Notably, there is an improved change in water quality, due to the decrease of nitrate accounting for 93 percent of the overall area. Also, the electrical conductivity is 89.2 percent of the area experienced a rise in EC readings, indicating a decline in water quality. The observed trends in water quality could potentially be associated with recent alterations in land use, where urban growth and agricultural activities may have influenced pollution dynamics. Moreover, it may be associated with better management practices, implementation of effective environmental protection measures, which may influence by land use dynamics change and management.CONCLUSIONS: The study was evaluated water quality variations in north-west Irbid governorate. It detects both advancements and declines, potentially influenced by alterations in land use and management dynamics, as well as natural and socioeconomic elements. Improved water quality indicates that proper water management measures may be implemented. The recommendations include land use planning, regular monitoring, and public awareness campaigns and stakeholder involvement. Future studies of water quality scenarios and risk evaluations must be part of long-term planning. Geographic Information System is an effective tool for mapping water quality trends and identifying hotspots, thereby supporting informed decision-making for sustainable water resource management.