The Influence of the Transition to Ecological Farming on the Quality of Runoff Water

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to analyze and evaluate the long-term impacts of the transition from agricultural production to ecological farming on the quality of runoff water in small catchments based on the analysis of water samples in the period 1986–2022. A total of 111 samples were analyzed. The following parameters were determined: nitrites, nitrates, chlorides, sulphates, phosphates, iron, coliform bacteria, and pH. Until 2006, the catchment was intensively managed by using artificial fertilizers and chemical preservatives. Since 2006, the catchment has been managed exclusively in an ecological way without the use of fertilizers and chemicals. The results of the analysis confirmed the positive impact of the transition of agricultural production to ecological farming, especially in the parameters of nitrates and chlorides. The greater use of organic fertilizers has caused an increase in coliform bacteria in the runoff water. The long period of the research also caused it to be possible to assess the impact of other potential factors. Changes in pH parameters and sulphates indicate an improvement in air quality. Changes in nitrite and iron parameters may indicate climate change associated with more intense precipitation activity.