Analysis of the Biophysical Quality of Domestic Water in Toro Local Government Area, Bauchi State, Nigeria

Abstract

Water quality analysis of surface and groundwater was carried out in Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi
state located on the central highlands of northern Nigeria. Samples were collected from streams, rivers, ponds,
wells and boreholes. The area was stratified into three districts and six samples were collected from each district
(a total of 18 samples). The samples were subjected to laboratory analysis to taste for the physical and biological
parameters in the water, and the results were compared with the World Health Organization (WHO) standard.
The results of the analysis showed that only 3 of the 18 samples fell below the WHO standard in terms of
biological fitness. The result of the physical parameters showed that the temperature of all the samples fell
below the WHO standard; while turbidity of 11 of the samples fell below the WHO standard. In the case of
appearance and taste, 5 samples are objectionable as set by WHO. The odors of all samples are unobjectionable
as set by WHO. Based on these findings, recommendations were made on how to improve the quality of water
in the study area.