GROUNDWATER QUALITY ASSESSMENT IN DOMESTIC WELLS OF HODĂI-BOIAN, CEANU MARE COMMUNE, ROMANIA

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive chemical assessment of groundwater quality from 37 domestic wells in the rural village of Hodăi-Boian, Ceanu Mare commune, Romania, with emphasis on contamination risks arising from anthropogenic activities. Key water quality parameters—nitrites(NO₂⁻), nitrates(NO₃⁻), ammonium(NH₄⁺), pH, turbidity, and electrical conductivity(EC)—were determined according to standardized analytical protocols and compared against Romanian and European regulatory thresholds. Exceedances of the maximum admissible concentration for NO₂⁻ were detected in seven wells, indicating recent contamination events likely linked to the proximity of animal shelters and latrines. NO₃⁻ and NH₄⁺ concentrations remained below legal limits, although elevated NH₄⁺ levels signal persistent microbiological activity. The findings revealed pronounced mineralization and frequent surpassing of conductivity limits, while pH values below 7.0 in selected wells suggested active organic fermentation processes. Water temperature ranged from 11–13 °C, confirming the shallow aquifer character. Correlative analysis demonstrated strong associations between well proximity to pollution sources, livestock density, and water quality deterioration. The results underscore the necessity of regular water quality monitoring, rigorous enforcement of protective distances, and technical improvements to well construction. Strengthening public health education and upgrading sanitation infrastructure are imperative to mitigate health risks and safeguard the safety of groundwater resources in vulnerable rural environments.