SEASONAL-VARIATIONS IN THE QUALITY OF SPRING WATERS USED AS PRIVATE SUPPLIES

The quality of water issuing from four springs which act as private wa ter supplies was monitored regularly over a twelve-month period. Bacte riological analyses for faecal coliforms and chemical analyses for iro n, manganese, aluminium and lead were carried out and related to meteo rological conditions. Bacteriological quality, which was influenced by the amount and duration of rainfall, deteriorated rapidly after heavy rain and improved markedly during dry periods. Chemical quality was a function of both the rainfall and atmospheric pollution emanating fro m the nearby urban conurbation. The results are discussed with relatio n to the statutory requirements for local authorities to monitor small private water supplies.