Hydrogeological-hydrochemical investigation of Solakli basin and investigation of the effects of hydroelectric power plants (HEPP) on water quality

This study aims to investigate the hydrogeology-hydrochemistry of the Solaklı basin and the effects of HEPPs in the basin on water quality. 10 points were measured in the study area and 32 water parameters were analyzed. Water quality classes and water quality indices were calculated using the weighted arithmetic water quality index method and the Canadian Water Quality. It was determined that the waters were generally mixed in terms of cations, HCO3 in terms of anions, and had very low concentrations of trace elements with the exception of the trace metals aluminum (Al), manganese (Mn) and iron (Fe). According to the same standards, with the exception of the BOD and COD parameters, the other parameters are class I in terms. The water quality index calculated using the weighted arithmetic method (AAY) and the Canadian Water Quality Index (CWQI) and it was determined that the waters were respectively in the "Excellent", "Good" and "Average" class. The individual effects of HEPPs were evaluated, HEPPs had no effect on major ion concentrations, but were effective on parameters such as temperature, fecal coliforms, DO, BOD, total phosphate and total nitrate, which can change with the amount of water. This effect generally increases as the amount of water decreases from the point where water is drawn from the regulator.