Reservoir limnology in the arid northern mountains of Oman: Problems and prospects

A limnological survey of 10 traditional and 18 modern man-made reservoirs in the arid northern mountains of Oman was conducted from October 1996 to March 1997. The physical and chemical quality of water in these reservoirs was determined and compared against universally accepted water quality standards. Water quality parameters relevant to the study area are discussed. The water quality of traditional and modern reservoirs was not significantly different except for sulfate concentrations. Eutrophication is the major problem in these reservoirs. Management strategies to improve the water use efficiency with particular reference to eutrophication are proposed.