Water quality and sediment contamination assessment of the Batllava Lake in Kosovo using fractionation methods and pollution indicators

The quality of water and sediment in the Batllava Lake were determined using the inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), fractionation method, and pollution indicators. The quality of the water has complied with the Council Directive (98/83 EC) and Kosovo Administrative Instruction (AI No.16/2012), except for Al and Fe. The total metals in the sediment Ba, Ni, and V exceeded the limits according to Dutch Target and Intervention Values, 2000 (the New Dutch List). Most of the analyzed metals were strongly associated with crystalline sedimentary components and were found at high levels in the residual fraction. The pollution load index (PLI), enrichment factor (EF), index of geoaccumulation (I-geo), and ecological risk index (ERI) were used for assessment of sediment contamination. The PLI values indicate a progressive deterioration. The contamination factor values indicate moderate to a considerable degree. The EF values for Ni, Cr, Cu, Zn, and V were at moderate levels, while those of As and Pb at significant levels. The ERI values for all analyzed elements were at low-risk levels. The significant percent of the Pb content was found in the organic fraction and Fe-Mn oxides, Zn in the fraction of Fe-Mn oxides, Mn in the exchangeable and carbonate fractions, and Cu in the organic fraction. The metals related to sediments in non-residual fractions should be carefully treated with a strategic management plan, and with frequent monitoring.