Abstract

Objective: To evaluate temporal and spatial nutrient level regimes and thermotolerant coliform counts (TTC) as water quality determinants. Methods: The annual research was conducted from November 2014 to November 2015, over six sampling seasons at seven selected sites within the greater City of Mostar, the regional centre of Herzegovina. For determination of physical, chemical and microbiological parametres Standard Methods for the Examination od Water and Wastewater (APHA, 1995) were used. Results: The results indicate that nutrient levels are within prescribed limits, although they are raised along a longitudinal gradient, correlating with wastewater outlests. The water quality was found to be within the I/II class during all tested seasons, suggesting that the river Neretva is in good condition and meets the requirements of the EU Water Framework Directive (2000). The TTC counts, however indicate a high level of contamination, due to communal wastewater outlets. Conclusions: Raised nutrient and bacterial contents are noted in high number of waterways, worldwide. Hence a more thorough investigation from epidemiological and toxicological aspects is warranted for setting the water quality standards.

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