Environmental analysis of Talabaan River, Naawan, Misamis Oriental [Philippines]

The objectives of the study were to: 1) determine river water quality in relation to the various activities within its watershed through analysis of physico-chemical characteristics and aquatic biota; 2.) assess the role of institutions regarding, regulation of river utilization and management; 3.) assess the knowledge, perceptions and attitudes of the community residents towards river utilization and conservation; and 4) recommend possible management strategies for sustainable use of the river. Results of the study showed that Talabaan River is slightly polluted as indicated by the low mean diversity (d) values between 1-3 for all sampling stations for both sampling periods. However, the pollution sensitive groups of aquatic insects such as Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera can still be found Aquatic organisms continued to thrive in Talabaan River though lesser in number as compared to the previous years. Physico-chemical parameters measured showed values that were within national standards. Agriculture seemed to have negligible influence on the river's water quality due to: a minimal use of agro-chemicals; and poultry wastes were not thrown into the river. The closing of the diversion weir to maintain water volume to be used for irrigation appeared to have caused the drying-up of that portion below the weir down to Mapulog during summer while intermittent tributaries were probably due to denuded forests and dried-up areas around the headwaters. Some residents indicated that Gmelina sp plantations may possibly be related to the aforementioned condition. Community residents at upper reaches appeared to value the river highly as shown by the apparently clean river water condition within their communities. Communities at the lower reaches on the other hand, appeared to have less regard for the resource as the river condition along these areas appeared dirty with the presence of the garbage dumping site. The following are possible recommendations for Talabaan River's sustainable use: a.) conduct of a barangay [village] tree planting of denuded areas; b) increase environmental awareness of residents and LGU [local government units] officials; and c.) plan and implement a solid waste management project for the communities found in the lower reaches of the river