Abstract
This study was conducted in the summer of 2005 in Shindong-myeon, Chuncheon-si, Gangwon-do to assess the quality of drinking water and to evaluate their potential pollutants. Ninety four water samples were collected from three classes of water supplies such as simple piped water, supplied own water and others (Supplied local water). Most residents used simple piped water (72.63%). 31.25% residents thought the water quality was bad and landfill was the main source of pollution that affected water quality. To correspond this perception, water quality was measured according to Drinking Water Quality Standard. The general bacteria, coliforms, and $NO_3-N$ exceeded the standard but the water qualities in these four areas were suitable for Drinking Water Quality Standard. The simple piped water showed low mean concentration of excess rate compared to supplied own piped water except general bacteria. Hardness, pH, and $NO_3-N$ showed significantly higher effects on drinking water quality. To evaluate the effect of effluent from landfill, water quality was measured according to distance and altitude. However, there was no effect of landfill effluent. To find out the effect of rainfall, we compared water quality of the year 2003 with that of 2005. The result showed significant differences in hardness and $NO_3-N$ concentration. This study confirmed that $NO_3-N$, coliforms, and general bacteria are main pollutant of water supply in rural community. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly maintain simple piped water supply, supplement sewer facilities, and educate residents about public health risk associated with drinking water in rural area.
