Application of PCLake Model to Predict Water Quality in Tropical Reservoirs, a Case Study of Khlong Luang Ratchalothorn Reservoir

Pongsakorn Wongpipun; Sanya Sirivithayapakorn; Narumol Vongthanasunthorn

Authors

Pongsakorn Wongpipun Kasetsart University, Thailand
Sanya Sirivithayapakorn Kasetsart University, Thailand
Narumol Vongthanasunthorn Saga University, Japan https://orcid.org/0009-0008-0220-9322

Keywords:

Chlorophyll a, nutrient, PCLake, rainfall, water resources

Abstract

This study addresses a previously unexamined water quality issue in the Khlong Luang Ratchalothorn (KLR) reservoir, which suffered severe eutrophication in 2018 due to the cyanobacteria Microcystis aeruginosa. This phenomenon led to the development of green scum, alterations in color, foul odors, and diminished dissolved oxygen levels, negatively impacting the reservoir's usability. Utilizing the calibrated and validated PCLake water quality model, the research assessed the impact of varying reservoir inflow scenarios—minimum, average, and maximum—based on rainfall data from 2013 to 2022 on Chlorophyll a (Chla) levels. Additionally, the effects of reducing nutrient and suspended solids loading by 10%, 30%, and 50% were evaluated under worst-case scenarios. Findings indicate that the reservoir maintains an eutrophic status across drought, normal, and wet conditions, with drought having the most significant adverse impact on water quality, potentially persisting for up to two years. Despite a 50% reduction in nutrient and suspended solids, the reservoir does not transition to a mesotrophic state; however, water users do not face significant challenges even under these extreme conditions. This research offers new insights into effective strategies for managing water quality in similar aquatic systems.

Author Biographies

Pongsakorn Wongpipun, Kasetsart University, Thailand

Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University, Ngamwongwan Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand

Sanya Sirivithayapakorn, Kasetsart University, Thailand

Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kasetsart University, Thailand

Narumol Vongthanasunthorn, Saga University, Japan

Faculty of Science and Engineering, Saga University, Honjo-machi, Saga City, Saga 840-8502 , Japan

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