Revealing the Extent of Pesticide Runoff to the Surface Water in Agricultural Watersheds
Author:
Kim Young-Eun1ORCID, Jeon Darae1, Lee Hyeri1, Huh Yujeong1, Lee Soohyung2, Kim Jong Guk3, Kim Hyoung Seop1
Affiliation:
1. Environmental Measurement & Analysis Center, National Institute of Environmental Research, 42 Hwangyong-ro, Incheon 22689, Republic of Korea 2. Fundamental Environment Research Department, National Institute of Environmental Research, 42 Hwangyong-ro, Incheon 22689, Republic of Korea 3. Department of Environmental Engineering, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju 54896, Republic of Korea
Abstract
Pesticides are beneficial in protecting crops from pests and improving agricultural productivity; however, concerns on pesticide pollution in water have increased due to their indiscriminate use and lack of adequate regulations. Many studies have focused on the risks of pesticides considering the limited number and types of pesticide residues in crops and soils, and duration, and very few have focused on surface water throughout the year. Therefore, this study comprehensively identified 308 pesticides in surface water samples collected monthly over one year in the Saemangeum Basin, Korea. Both targeted and non-targeted analyses were used to identify 171 and 24 pesticides, respectively. Results highlight the extensive extent of pesticide contamination. Among the quantified pesticides, bromobutide and pretilachlor consistently exhibited high concentrations and risk levels, as indicated by their elevated risk quotient (RQ) values. Seasonal variations in pesticide concentrations revealed distinct patterns with intensified herbicide use during summer and increased insecticide concentrations during autumn. This study highlights the presence, distribution, and associated ecological risks of pesticides in surface waters, emphasizing the necessity of comprehensive monitoring and regulatory measures to protect aquatic ecosystems. The high RQ values identified for specific pesticides underscore the urgent need to implement effective strategies to mitigate these environmental risks.
Funder
National Institute of Environmental Research
Subject
Water Science and Technology,Aquatic Science,Geography, Planning and Development,Biochemistry
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