Evaluation of lake water based on Iran Water Quality Index of Surface Water (IRWQISC) for sustainable development (Ardabil's Neor Lake)

This study was designed and conducted with the aim of evaluating the water quality of Neor Lake using water quality indicators and considering the existence of agricultural, recreational and fish farming activities around this lake and determining the water status. According to agricultural and livestock activities around Neor Lake, 5 sampling stations were identified and sampling was done in the spring and summer of 2016 in Neor Lake and the required parameters to calculate water quality indicators were measured according to the standard method. According to the Iran Water Quality Index for Surface Water (IRWQISC), which has been prepared with the aim of using the appropriate method with natural conditions, issues and problems of Iranian water resources, the calculation and parameters of fecal coliform, BOD, COD, nitrate, soluble oxygen, Electrical conductivity, chemical required oxygen, phosphate, turbidity, total hardness, pH and ammonium were analyzed. The results showed that the index of all stations was between 50 and 69 and according to the IRWQISC index, it was in two classes; medium (45-55) and relatively good (55-70). Due to the passage of livestock in the area and some tourist activities and agricultural activities in the warm seasons around the lake, it is not suitable for fish, especially cold-water fish, but it is suitable for agricultural and recreational purposes.