THE ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF SMALL RIVERS IN UKRAINE UNDER CONDITIONS OF INTENSIVE WAR IMPACT

Abstract

Aquatic ecosystems are perpetually exposed to anthropogenic sources of pollution, wherein the quality of subterranean and surface waters undergoes influence from both natural and anthropogenic processes. This interaction results in environmental predicaments and, occasionally, environmental crises. Small rivers, in particular, bear a pronounced impact from human interventions on the environment. The investigation undertaken by the researchers commenced in 2021 with the primary objective of scrutinizing the ecological condition of the Irsha River. Regrettably, due to the military aggression of the Russian Federation, the regions through which the river courses were temporarily occupied, subjecting it to considerable anthropogenic disturbances. Specifically, two bridges spanning the Irsha River in the Malyn area were demolished, and military operations transpired along the riverbanks, leading to the accumulation of damaged military equipment. Consequently, it was deemed imperative during the course of our study to conduct an analysis of the natural water in the Irsha River subsequent to the military activities. The outcomes of a comprehensive assessment of surface water quality, employing a graphical method, revealed that, during the period of 2021-2022, the river waters within the Irsha River exhibited an overall failure to meet quality standards in both monitoring locations. Elevated values of Maximum Permissible Concentration (MPC) exceeding the norm were noted for the Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) indicator, the dissolved oxygen indicator, as well as the general iron and iron of permanganate oxidizability parameters in both samples. The highest degree of pollution was discerned in the Malyn Reservoir, whereas the Irsha Reservoir manifested comparatively lower pollution levels in the aquatic environment.