Water Quality Assessment of Aflaj in the Mountains of Oman

The research was conducted to assess the aflaj water quality in Al Jabal Al Akhdar, Oman. 9 aflaj were sampled during summer and winter seasons in 2012-2013 to evaluate for the physico-chemical characteristics of major quality parameters; and assess the suitability of aflaj for irrigation purposes. Samples collection, handling and processing followed the standard methods recommended by the American Public Health Association and analysed in quality assured laboratories using appropriate analytical methods and instrumental techniques. The quality parameters of the selected aflaj water indicated their suitability for irrigation as most of the quality parameters were within the permissible limits set by Omani regulations of wastewater reuse for irrigation. These selected water resources are excellent or good in quality for irrigation purposes based on the evaluation of different hazards parameters including the salinity-alkalinity hazards which indicate good to admissible water based on electrical conductivity and sodium adsorption classification; and water quality indices which reveal high or moderate classes, indicating the suitability of aflaj for irrigation of the majority of crops and soils. This study is a first comprehensive assessment towards providing indicators and classification indices on irrigation water quality of this fragile mountain ecosystem, which will be the basis for future planning decisions on agricultural demand management
measures to protect these principal resources for agricultural production in Al Jabal Al Akhdar.