Janaury to March 2005

(Collaborative program between FRC/PSMC-PLEACB)

Introduction
The main objective of water quality monitoring programs is to improve conservation management of Phewa Lake (particularly water quality) by enabling local communities and institutions for letting take initiatives on environmental awareness, capacity building and conservation programs. In connection with this, Phewa Lake Environment Awareness and Capacity building Project of Pokhara Sub-Metropolitan City (PLEACBP-PSMC) and Fisheries research Center, Pokhara signed a Minute of Understanding (MOU) on 1st March 2005 in order to evaluate water qualities and assist in promoting awareness program for the benefit of target group. Although the MOU was signed in March a detailed water quality-monitoring program have been prepared and implemented since January 2005.

General overview of limnological condition and its effect
It is acclaimed that eutrophication of water resources of Phewa lake is a serious problem. Different water quality parameters were monitored in past showed the lake is currently characterized by high nutrient level due to high rate of material discharge and as the flooded terrestrial vegetation decays. The decomposition of these large quantities of organic matter in the water produces inorganic nutrients such as ammonia, nitrate and phosphorus. This increased productivity caused by excessive organic loads resulting in decline in water quality; and these symptoms of overproduction are called eutophication. Water hyacinth tends to flourish under such eutrophic conditions.