MELLIZAS, MARIAN MAE L., MISTIO, REYNELYN LOU E. (MARCH 2010)
Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus – Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PSHS WVC), Brgy. Bito-on, Jaro, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
ABSTRACT
Wells and septic tanks in Amerang, Cabatuan were not yet characterized and profiled. Also, the groundwater from wells in Barangay Amerang were not tested for the presence of Escherichia coli.
In this study, wells and septic tanks were categorized, profiled and mapped. Groundwater collected from each well was tested for the presence of E. coli using the three-tube fermentation method.
Out of 11 groundwater samples, one is safe, seven are risky, and three are classified as unsafe. Three wells were classified as poorly constructed. One of the eight wells with cement or metal lining was classified as a safe source for drinking water. The depths of wells profiled do not exceed 20 ft. The presence or type of material used for the well casing did not affect the level of contamination significantly.
The presence of unsealed contaminant sources in the vicinity of wells can possibly contribute to the bacterial contamination of the groundwater in the wells. Wells having unsealed contaminants sources in its vicinity have higher possibilities of contamination.