Short−Term Assessment of Heavy Metals in Surface Water from Xiaohe River Irrigation Area, China: Levels, Sources and Distribution

The aims of this study were to determine the pollution characteristics heavy metals and their potential harm human health in surface water agricultural irrigation areas, China, over a short term. In study, Cu, Zn, Pb, Hg, Ni, Cr, Cd, As Xiaohe River area detected analyzed. results showed that concentrations exceeded national environmental quality standard for varying degrees. October significantly lower than November December due impact extreme precipitation events. Point source (industrial sewage, etc.) was main factor affecting spatial distribution metals. domestic sewage. Domestic sewage industrial sources November. relatively diverse, source. temporal variation metal changed significantly. Industrial area. urban activities cannot be ignored. risk mainly depends on As. Policy recommendations also proposed better control river ecosystems involving areas.