Changes of Water Quality and Water Surface Area in Inle Lake (Myanmar) : Facts and Perceptions

INTRODUCTIONS
The Rational of the Present Study

Water is one of the most necessary things for all forms of life: human, animals
and plants. Life, therefore, cannot exist without water on the earth.
It is a source of energy, an avenue of transportation, habitat for a myriad of
organisms and essential for life (Robert J. Naiman et.al, 1995). Nowadays, water
quality assessment is greatly important to natural ecosystem as well as human and it
becomes a global issue. One fifth of the world population is without access to safe
drinking water and half of the population is without access to adequate sanitation
(2000, UNDP). As the world's population is increasing, the fresh water demand is
rapidly growing.
On the earth surface, water existed in various forms: liquid, solid, ice or snow
and water vapor. About 75% of the earth surface is covered by water, 98% of the
available water is found in the ocean. Less than 1 percent of water is found in the
lake. Among them 20% of water is in Lake Baikal and 20% is in the Great Lakes.
Lake is one of the important valued resources for water of human society as
well as aquatic environment. They provided several uses such as agriculture, livestock
watering, irrigation, fisheries, transportation, domestic use and recreation. Lakes and
their wetlands are of great advantage: storehouses of biodiversity, groundwater
recharge and modification for water quality.
Nowadays, the world's fresh water resources are under increasing pressure.
Growth in population, increased economic activity and improved standards of living
lead to increased competition for and conflicts over the limited freshwater resources
(2000. TAC).
Fresh water bodies are facing some of today's major causes of water quality
degradation by pollutants and contamination. Some problems have been present for a
long time but have only recently reached a critical level, while others are newly
emerging (1996, UNEP/WHO). Water quality is affected by a variety of natural and
human influences. Challenges of quality degradation and water shortages are faced by
many countries of the world.
Fresh water comes from river, lake, underground water, etc. Among them lake
is one of the fresh water resources. Inle Lake is the third largest and it is a natural lake
among the 17 lakes in Myanmar. Indawgyi Lake in Myitkyina District, Kachin State
is the largest in Myanmar and Indaw Lake in Sagaing Division, is the second largest
lake, 11. Inle Lake is the most important lake in the country by virtue of its
distinguishable economic, social and cultural implications. In addition its nature the
natural wetland enhances a rich and a variety of biodiversity surroundings. It is the
most important water resources for hydroelectricity generation of Lawpita, which is
one of the biggest electric power plant in Myanmar, and agricultural uses for local
people especially hydroponics farming (floating cultivation), tourist attraction of its
beautiful scenery and ecotourism for its biologically rich ecosystems, home for the
race of the Inthas who have a unique way of livelihood and culture, habitat for
resident and migratory water fouls and a variety of aquatic lives altogether account for
those implications.
The present threat to the Inle lake is that the water quality is disturbed by
floating garden using fertilizer and pesticides, eutrophication from nutrients, domestic
effluents into the lake from catchments as well as local residents and non-point
sources of pollution problem are taking place in this region and it needs proper water
quality monitoring programme. Furthermore, Inle Lake has become shallower with
the problems of soil erosion in the watershed area, which is becoming serious due to
over-exploitation of natural resources, loss of vegetation cover by burning and cutting
forest, and unfavorable agricultural practices such as shifting and or slash and burn
cultivation method.
Problems and Objectives of the Research

Therefore, the main problems of this study could be used to address the
following basic questions:
Are there hydrologic water quality thresholds values beyond the quality of
water in Inle Lake?
How did the water surface area change in Inle Lake? Why? and
How do local people and visitors aware of the changes of water quality
and water surface area in Inle Lake?
The major objectives of the study are:
Preliminary Survey on Potentiality of Reforestation under Clean Development Mechanism in

Myanmar, with Particular References to Inle Lake, 1993.
1.
To investigate the present status of water quality in Inle Lake

seasonally and spatially,
2.
To assess the status of water quality in Inle Lake whether it is beyond

the quality thresholds value or not,
3.
To observe the changes of water surface area in Inle Lake,
4.
To analyze factors which influence the changes of water surface area,
5.
To observe the relationship between water quality and water surface

area changes of Inle Lake,
6.
To study the perceptions of local people and visitors regarding the

changes of water quality and water surface area Inle Lake and
7.
To suggest the tendency of water and environmental management in

Inle Lake from the perceptions of local people and visitors.
Concerning the water quality in Myanmar, most of the studies related to the
water quality have been carried out in many areas. Almost all of these studies were
conducted for drinking water quality and also in river water quality. Although there
are many studies concerning water quality, there is still lack of systematic studies on a
water quality of Inle Lake. In addition, another interesting problem is to study the
surface area changes of Inle Lake because it is facing shallowness and more shrinkage
by silting and agricultural extension. This study is typically based on the land cover
changes which finally produced a water surface area changes. These two factors have
strongly related to the perceptions and awareness of people and their activities in Inle
Region.
Definitions
Lakes are an impoundment of water. There are many definitions for lake.
Generally; the lake is defined simply as in "Water Quality Assessment"
(1996.UNESCO, WHO, UNEP) expressed that_
"A lake may be defined as an enclosed body of water (usually fresh water) totally
surrounded by land and with no direct access to the sea".
According to the I.A.E.Bayly and W.D. William (1973), a book of Inland

Water and their Ecology described more scholarly definition of lake as follow:
"A lake can be described as standing bodies of water. Usually a lake has an outlet
system as an open lake, however, there is no outlet at any time and then the lake is
said to be closed lake".
Furthermore, it is assumed that the deep definition of a lake described in

"Lakes and reservoirs: Similarities, Differences and Importance": (2000.UNEP, IETC,
ILEC) as_
"Lakes are naturally formed, usually bowl-shaped depressions in the island surface
that became filled with water over time. These depressions (also called basins) were
typically produced as a result of the catastrophic events of glaciers, volcanic activity
or tectonic movement."
In general, lakes can be defined as temperate lake and tropical lake as to their
location. Furthermore, lakes can be divided according to their basins origination. A
very comprehensive account of lake origin is given by I.A.E. Bayly and
W.D.Williams, there are many types of lake according to these lake originate that they
can be generally divided as:
(a)Tectonic Lake: basins are formed by movement of the deeper part of the
earth's crust. One such type of lake is formed by tilting or folding movements
reversing the previous drainage system. The fault-scarp lake is also this type of lake.
(b)Volcanic Lake_ those are associated with volcano activity. Maars, volcano
carter lakes, caldera, modified caldera lake, volcano-tectonic lake, collapse of lava
flows lake and volcanic damming lakes are formed by the volcano activity.
(c)Landslide Lake_ are formed when a landslide fills a floor or a valley and
dam a stream. Such lakes are often short-lived since once the lake rises and flows
over the top of the dam the out flowing water may carry away the unconsolidated
materials.
(d)Glacial Lake_ is formed by glacial activity. Kettle lakes, cirque lakes,
piedmont lakes, fjord lake and morainic dams' lakes are in glacial types of lake.
(e)Solution Lake_ are formed in limestone country, water may dissolve away
localized patches of material and from funnel-shaped hollows. The bottom of these
may then become choked with lumps of rock and fine insoluble materials washed in
form the surface so that after rain, water accumulate, and a solution lake or pond
temporarily comes into existence.
(f)Fluviatile Lake_ lake basins have been produced by fluviatile action or
processes associated with rivers. The lateral lake and oxbow lakes are such types of
fluviatile lake.
(g) Dune Lake and lakes in rock basins produced by deflation_ are formed
solely or partially as a result of wind action. Dune barrage lakes, parabolic lake,
lakes resting on impervious organically bonded sand-rock in dune depressions, lakes

in permeable depressions extending below a common extensive water-table, lakes in
clay basins produced by deflation include in this type.
(g)Coastal Lake or Lagoon_ formed is by the growth of a bar across some
marine inlets.
Fresh water is a crucial resource for human existence. The problem related to
fresh water quality of today is addressed in global challenges in 21st century. The
term water quality was defined in various forms. In "Environment words: A
Dictionary in plain English Published by Images Asia" defined clearly as follow:
"How good water is to use"(measure of water quality are based on, how the water
smells, its color, its taste, how pure it is).
In 1996, UNEP, WHO stated that the water quality in " Water Quality
Monitoring: A practical guide to the design and implementation of freshwater quality
studies and monitoring programme" as:
"Water Quality is a term used to express the suitability of water to sustain various
uses or processes".
A very brief general account of water quality is explained by Lo (1986) as

follow:
"Water quality refers to chemical, physical and biological characteristics of water.
The chemical characteristics include the organic substances such as heavy metal,
pesticides detergents and petroleum. The physical characteristic consists of turbidity,
color and temperature, and the biological characteristics include plankton and
pigment".
The term perception has many definitions. Actually, studying in perception is

in Psychological term. But, today, it is widely used in many subjects and it is one of
the important words in Geography. In Psychology, perception can be described as:
"Perception is the process by which we organize and interpret the sensory
information we received. Perception is a cognitive process."
In Environmental Geography Second Year Text Book, it was expressed more
related and more comprehensively for geography as follow:
"The term perception means process by which one becomes aware of changes
through the senses of sight, hearing, etc; act or power of perceiving. There is
a need to understand that the environment is being degraded and the public
awareness of environmental knowledge and education play a significant role

in resolving the conflicts between man and nature."
Reviews of the Previous Works

Before starting this research, literature surveys were made on the studying of
water quality of Inle Lake. Some previous works are related to geological background
of Inle Lake and the socio-economic condition. Furthermore water quality of Inle
Lake is also stated by some scholars but they did not mention seasonal and spatial
aspect. As yet all the scholars who studied the quality of water in Inle Lake are from
the Chemistry Department, Zoology Department, Irrigation Department and UNDP.
All these studies emphasized the small scale area or drinking water quality.
The first water quality measurement may be expressed in N.annadale (1918) at
"Fauna of the Inle Lake"; he referred another author, named Mr. R.V. Briggs.
Dr.annadale expressed in his study as:
"Mr. Briggs has analyzed a sample which came from the surface in the middle lake,
with the following results: _
Total Solids
0.1710 (per liter)
Organic matter
0.0160
Calcium
0.0222
Magnesium
0.0279
Chlorine
0.0017
Sulphate (So4)
0.0017
Silica
0.0010
Carbonic Acid (CO3)
0.1030
It was found that Mr. Briggs analyzed the quality status of water in Inle Lake
in 1918. But he has measured some parameters of water quality for only one sample
site on surface water. Although lake's water quality is typically based on measurement
of water samples from its deep center part, this data is a valuable document of
historical background of water quality of the lake. At that time the condition of water
quality of the lake was very good.
One of the previous works was done by Nu Nu Khin (1984), who studied of
"Abundance of Trace Elements in Representative Fish and Vegetables of Inle Area".
In this study, the researcher study only trace elements in water for fish and vegetable.
Another interesting previous works was done by Ni Ni Moe, (1997), who

studied "Chemical Analysis on the Quality of Inle Lake Water for Drinking and
Agricultural Purposes", on M.Sc Thesis of Chemistry Department, Mandalay
University. She studied the water quality of Inle Lake emphasizing on drinking water
and agricultural purposes and water quality parameters are quite complete and divided
into physical characteristics, metals, inorganic nonmetallic constituent, organic
constituents and bacteriological characteristics. In her study, six sample sites were
collected mainly in Ywama Village and Thale Village in summer and early winter.
This study was very interesting and valuable for the historical documents for Inle
water quality of Lake and it can be represented for the status of drinking water quality
and for agricultural purposes of water.
In 2004, the Chemistry Department, Taunggyi University has studied two
aspects of water quality in Inle Lake: one is "The Long Term Study on Sedimentation
in Inle Lake" (Khin Mu et. al) and another is "Study of Some Chemical
Characteristics of Water from Inle Lake"(Kyin Aye et al). In the study of "Long Term
Studied on Sedimentation in Inle Lake" emphasis is placed on sedimentation with five
parameters: Total Suspended Solid, Total Dissolved Solid, pH, Hardness and Total
Alkalinity. Samples were taken from 10 sample sites during the rainy season (from
June to October). This study was the pioneer of searching for silting and pollution in
Inle Lake and valuable fundamental data for further research of sedimentation.
In the study of "Some Chemical Characteristics of Water from Inle Lake" the
water samples were collected from three samples sites with six parameters and trace
elements. In this case, water quality parameter is quite enough. But the lake's water
quality was represented by only sample site 1, and the other two sample sites are
taken from the residential and floating garden areas.
In Inle region, there are many social development projects of UNDP and
NGOs. In 2004, UNDP tested the drinking water quality. Water is taken from tube
wells, streams and springs in Inle Area and investigated parameters are pH, Hardness,
E.C, Turbidity, Chloride, Fluoride, Nitrate, Arsenic, Fecal Coliform and Total
Coliform. They intended to use the test for drinking water. But some of the sample
sites are related with Inle Lake's water quality.
In 2001, consultants from the Ministry of the Environment of Japan and
Myanmar surveyed in Myanmar Wetland Areas. They surveyed all wetland areas of
Myanmar and also assessed the quality of water in Inle Lake in December. In this
7
survey, they collected nine water sample sites from Inle Lake and assessed pH,
Conductivity and Dissolved Oxygen.
These above mentioned studies are related to Inle Lake water quality. But
water quality of the whole lake with spatial and seasonal variation are still lacking.
Furthermore, there are some previous works regarding geology, geography,
botany and zoology with some specific aspects in Inle Lake and some are still under
study. Concerning the environment studies, there is a research of Forest Department
and CDM (Clean Development Mechanism), which proposed as "Preliminary Survey
on Potentiality of Reforestation under Clean Development Mechanism in Myanmar,
with a particular reference to Inle Region" (2000), mentioned land cover and land use
for Inle-Moebye Watershed. In this study, land cover is divided into eleven
classifications.
An Overview of the Study Area

In Myanmar, there are three main Wetland Wildlife Sanctuaries: Inle Wetland
Wildlife Sanctuary (602.32 sq. km), Indawgyi Wetland Sanctuary (775.25 sq.km) and
Moyongyi Wetland Wildlife Sanctuary (103.60 sq. km). According to the Davis et. al
(2004), Inle Lake is one of the most important lake in Southeast Asia for fish
endemism, it has very high cultural and scenic values, high water plants diversity and
it is one of highest located lakes in Myanmar.
Physical Environment of Inle Region

The Inle Lake is situated in Nyaung Shwe Township, in Taunggyi District,
Southern Shan State, between Latitude 19 58 0 and 20 43 05 North, Longitude
97 46 30 and 97 55 30 East. Inle Lake alone lies between 20 18 and 20 53
North Latitudes, and between 96 50 and 96 57 East Longitudes. Inle area is
technically referred to as Inle Watershed including Taunggyi Township, Nyaung
Shwe Township, Yaksauk Township, Pindaya Township, Kalaw Township and
Pinlaung Township which are wholly or partially falling within Inle area. (Figure 1)
N
9
4
9
6
9
8
1
0
1
0
2
2
8
2 8
9
2
2 4
2 2
1
0
1 0
1
2
1 2
1
4
1 4
1
6
1 6
1
8
1 8
2
0
2 0
0 100 200 Miles
2
4
100
2
6
2 6
9
2
9
4
9
6
9
8
1
0
9645'
9700'
1
0
2
2100'
21
2045'
20
Inle Lake
10
15
2030'
20
2015'
20
20 Miles
Figure 1 Location Map of the Study Area

Source: Digitizing on Topographic Map, Myanmar Survey Department
The lake is situated at 2900 feet above mean sea level, occupies the central
part of a trough between two mountain ranges, which runs almost from north to south.
This area of the Shan Plateau is formed with mountain ridges which split up and
parallel, formed the flat-bottomed basins or valleys namely, the Thamakhan Basin, the
Heho Basin and the Nyaung Shwe Valley (Yaungshwe Valley), which are separated
from each other by a mountain. It is evident that drainage must be taking place from
these three basins and directly drained into the Inle Lake. Generally, the watershed
can be divided into three parts: the eastern hilly part, the northern part and the western
hilly part, and several streams and rivers flow through these hilly areas and enter into
the lake. The following table shows that the watershed area of Inle Lake which was
characterized by eleven distinct land systems with an area of some 2169 square miles
designated as follow:
Table 1 Physical Characteristics of Inle's Watershed Area

Designation
Area (sq.mile)
Designation
Area (sq.mile)
Thamakhan Plain
178.6
Pinlaung Range
286.7
Lonpo Plain
116.0
Taunglaylone Range
244.7
Nyaung Shwe Valley
487.2
Taunggyi Range
244.7
Mobye Valley
195.3
Kyauktalone Range
241.3
Heho Basin
61.4
Thikaung Ridge
56.2
Kalaw South Mountains
168.2
Source: Mapping and Land use Planning for Watershed Management, GAF, and March 1996.
The whole of Shan States including Inle region is formed with limestone of
early Paleozoic to the Mesozoic Era. Around the lake the rocks are mainly limestone,
dolomites and marls of Ordovician and Permo-Carbonniferous age formation.
Structurally, the lake is bounded by a fault running east to west and can be called as a
graben. Along the western shores of the lake, the composition of silt and sandstone
were deposited. Moreover, the rocks present in the western ridge are of lower
resistance as compared to those in the eastern ridge, which rises more steeply above
sea level of the basin.
10
Figure 2 Physical Map of the Study Area

Source: 50 meter DEM
11
Strictly speaking, numerous streams enter into the lake, there are 29
streamlets, 17 streams from the eastern part, 11 streams from western part and only
one stream from northern part, and these are the major sources of water for Inle Lake.
Among them it receives water from swift streamlets of the eastern mountain range;
many of them dry up in winter and all are very short. None of these streams are of
great size. On the western side, rather larger streams enter by several mouths,
especially Thandaung Chaung (Kalaw Chaung) and Indein Chaung, which is the
major streamlets of the lake, their sources of water is from Pinlaung Ranges and
Kalaw Ranges entering the lake through tributaries and forming as large alluvial fan
and deltas. It is evident that some streams of the watershed, disappeared (underground
stream) while running for some miles at a great distance beneath the surface before
reaching the lake; which is a habit of the rivers of the Shan State. Likewise, in the
northern and northwestern part Namlit Chaung which is one of the major streams,
flow through Yatsauk and Shwe Nyaung Valley before entering the Inle Lake. From
the southern end of the lake, a larger stream, Nam Pilu Chaung flows through the
Sankha Basin into the Loi Kaw Basin, enters the Mobye Reservoir after flowing for
60 miles as Nam Pawn which drained into Thanlwin (Salween) river about 18 52
North latitude.
Due to the location, the climate in the Inle region has a tropical climate. The
annual maximum temperature is in the month of April and minimum temperature is in
the month of January. In Nyaung Shwe Township, the average minimum temperature
is 2.8 C and the average maximum temperature is 36.6 C (Myanmar Agriculture
Service, Nyaung Shwe, 2000). The average annual rainfall for the last 4 years is 855
mm for Nyaung Shwe Township. Not only south-west monsoon brings rainfall into
the region but also waves of whirlwind from South China Sea which brings rainfall in
the late monsoon.
Table 2 Climatic Data of Inle's Watershed Area (1990-2005)

Mean Temperature (degree centigrade) of Inle Watershed (1996-2005)
Township
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Kalaw
14.17
16.61
20.30
22.46
23.40
23.24
22.90
22.76
21.84
21.53
18.74
15.68
Nyaungshwe
17.73
19.06
22.81
24.91
24.70
23.61
23.11
22.92
22.90
22.21
20.32
18.15
Pinlaung
13.71
14.94
18.47
20.92
21.89
20.39
19.69
19.89
20.46
19.20
17.46
15.42
Taunggyi
16.00
18.14
20.86
22.74
22.18
21.68
21.21
21.16
21.11
20.74
18.56
16.47
Yaksauk
18.49
20.56
22.76
26.07
27.24
27.83
27.63
27.28
26.96
27.13
23.44
19.97
Total
80.10
89.31
105.20
117.10
119.41
116.75
114.54
114.01
113.27
110.81
98.52
85.69
12
Table 2 Climatic Data of Inle's Watershed Area (1990-2005)

Total Average Rainfall (inches)of Inle Watershed (1996-2005)
Township
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Kalaw
0.09
0.53
0.73
2.16
5.07
4.15
8.00
8.88
4.90
4.69
2.22
0.30
Nyaungshwe
0.01
0.15
0.27
1.02
3.72
6.16
7.66
10.19
8.28
3.99
2.03
0.22
Pinlaung
0.32
0.56
0.73
2.49
12.81
15.17
16.44
17.53
10.63
6.07
2.27
0.64
Taunggyi
0.20
0.38
0.83
2.12
8.53
6.20
9.55
8.92
9.10
6.33
2.39
0.47
Yaksauk
0.07
0.27
0.73
2.34
4.85
5.14
5.82
7.04
7.17
4.85
1.73
0.44
Total
0.69
1.89
3.29
10.13
34.98
36.82
47.47
52.56
40.08
25.93
10.64
2.07
Source: Meteorology and Hydrology Department, Taunggyi
30.00
800
700
25.00
Rainfall (mm)
20.00
500
15.00
400
300
10.00
Temperature ('c)
600
200
5.00
100
0
0.00
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Months
Nyaung Shwe
Kalaw
Yaksauk
Pinlaung
Taunggyi
Pinlaung
Taunggyi
Kalaw
Nyaungshwe
Yaksauk
Figure 3 Temperature and Rainfall of Study Area (1990 to 2005)

Source: Meteorology and Hydrology Department, Taunggyi
A general description of soils in Inle Lake watershed belong to the "sub

tropical monsoon zone" and yellow soils- up to 65 feet deep- dominate the plateau and
intra mountain basin. On the dissected mountains shallow and gravelly red soils
occur.
The vegetation is quite luxuriant and rich in a number of species around the
Inle Lake, generally: Wet Mixed Deciduous Forest, Dry Forest and Indaing Forest are
found over 3000 feet above mean sea level, Upper Mixed Deciduous Forest are
covered at 3000 feet above mean sea level, and at 4000 feet and over 4000 feet there
are Mountain Forest, Pine Forest and Grasslands. In the Wetland and Lake, the
13
aquatic vegetation of floating plants, marshes and weeds are common. According to
Dawan Mohinder Nath,2 "The Botanical Survey of the Southern Shan States With a
note on the Vegetation of the Inle Lake", University of Rangoon), fiftieth Anniversary
Conference: Subtropical Pine Forest are found growing in Kalaw, Aungban,
Taunggyi and their neighborhood; Subtropical Moist Forest with many species covers
the Taunggyi Ridge, Kalaw Hill; Indaing Forest are found on recent alluvium formed
by the Namlet Chaung and along the Shwe Nyaung-Yatsauk; and Subtropical Hill
Savannah Forest are commonly developed on the flat muddy soils in the Nyaung
Shwe basin from Taungni to Shweyanbye and along the foot of the mountain ridges.
Since Inle region is an expansion by agriculture land and settlement which cause the
deforestation.
Shallow lakes tend to be more biologically productive than deep lakes. Inle is
one of the natural shallow lakes, having rich biodiversity. Its wetland is more
remarkable for its various and luxurious biodiversity than other famous lakes in the
world. There are 1688 species of flora; among them 527 species of Traditional
Medicinal Plants, and 217 species of Local Orchids are notable. There are 25 species
of reptile in Inle Lake3. According to the 2003 census data, there may be about 400
species of bird in Inle Lake area and Eastern Sarus Crane is famous and predominant
only in Inle Lake around the world. 52 species of butterfly4, 3 species of turtle5 are
found around the lake. In aquatic animals, there are 23-43 species of fish in the lake,
among them under 2 Genera, 16 species can be found only in Inle Lake in the world6.
Socio-economic Scenario
There are seven townships and nearly all of this area fall into the Inle
catchments. All of these areas are suitable for agriculture, with favorable climatic
conditions, easily accessible to market with fairly high living standard and moderately
population. Total population and density of Inle watershed area is shown in Table 4.
2
3
4
5
6
Lecturer of Botany Department, Rangoon University (1961).

Surveying of Myanmar and California Scientific Inventory Group (Aug, 2002).
Inle Wetland Wildlife Sanctuary, (2003).
Sai Than Naing, 1993.
Dr. Jon Davies, (2001)
14
Table 3 Total Population and Density of Inle Watershed Area (2005)

Townships
Density (person
Area (sq. miles)
Total Population
Kalaw
553.00
137879
249.3
Nyaung Shwe
553.0
163231
295.1
Pindaya
233.50
71151
304.7
Pinlaung
1,295.60
83413
64.4
Ywangan
1,017.90
67306
66.1
Taunggyi
1928.23
272092
141.1
Yaksauk
1874.02
93368
0.01
per sq. miles)
Source: Immigration and Manpower Department, Taunggyi, Shan State.
In 2005, agriculture is the main occupation of Inle area and it is extensively

cultivated carried on in Heho Basin and Nyaung Shwe Basin. Large parts around Inle
Lake and Heho Basin are under irrigated agriculture. Rotational cultivation and
shifting cultivation are practiced in some mountain slopes. In Inle Region, paddy is
the chief crop and cash crop such as tomato, potato, sugarcane, peas, beans, maize,
cabbage, cauliflower, vegetables, etc are cultivated. Generally, land use in Inle
Watershed is shown in Table 5.
Table 4 Land use for Inle Watershed by Townships in 2000 (sq. miles)
Land use
Forestland
Townships
Rain-fed hill Lowland
Shifting
Multistory
agriculture
Agriculture
Agriculture
Garden
Kalaw
21,028.61
49,256.58
10,183.08
1,930.63
1,649.03
Nyaung Shwe
62,172.69
4,128.75
12,910.90
2,505.90
2,304.83
Pindaya
640.21
9,845.20
3,892.33
134.30
616.19
Pinglaung
35,758.78
28,565.70
2,866.80
2,616.11
124.20
Ywangan
0.00
283.89
73.73
0.00
186.85
Taunggyi
43,426.75
12,246.51
17,504.21
599.26
428.39
Yatsauk
14,228.12
2,120.50
5,388.55
38.90
66.27
Source: CDM (Clean Development Mechanism), 2000
Methods and Techniques

In this study, several methods and techniques were used. Firstly, water related
literature and initial secondary data on the physical data, methodological data,
15
ecological data, socio-economic data and small research related with Inle Region were
gathered through different offices at Taunggyi, Nyaung Shwe, Yangon and informal
personal interviews were conducted. The main proponent of this research is highlight
on waters and all the fundamental factors are considered on it. In this research, the
study is divided mainly into three parts: water quality, water surface area changes and
facts and perceptions on waters. Generally, an overview of the research design can be
worked out as shown in figure 2.
Water Quality
Field Measurement
Laboratory Test
One year round

Water Quality
Seasonal Changes
Water Surface area Changes
GIS Technique (Geomedia

& TNTSTART Software)
Ground Truth Survey
Three Different Times

Water Surface Area Changes
(1990, 2000 and 2005)
Based on Land Cover Changes
Perceptions on Environment
esp: Water Quality & Water
Surface Area Changes
Structured Interviews
Open Talks
Questionnaire Survey
Local People Perception

Visitors Perceptions
Management on Water and Suggestions

Figure 4 Research Design for the study of Changes of Water Quality and Water
Surface Area in Inle Lake: Facts and Perceptions
Choosing water quality parameters is an important factor to study the

limnology. To assess the quality of water variables physical characteristics, chemical
characteristics and biological characteristics were examined. Studying water quality
of a lake is a little different from those of river. Lake's water quality is typically based
on measurement of water samples from its vertical layers. Therefore, collection of
each water sample included three layers. The methods used in the present
16
investigations are field measurements with test kits for some parameters and some
water sample are taken in bottles and measured in laboratory. From the experimental
results, the quality of water in Inle Lake was compared with WHO Standard. In this
study, chemical investigations have been made to assess the quality of water data
obtained from nine different sampling sites in Inle Lake. Field observations and
collections of water samples are done three times in the three seasons. (Figure 5)
Literature Survey on
Water quality
Consideration on the study area

Natural System, Human Impact
Choosing Water Quality
Parameters of Lake
On Field Measurement
with Text-kit
Preliminary Survey
Laboratory
Operations
Sample Collection
(Field Measurement)
- Seasonal Changes
- Spatial Changes
Data Processing and

Data Interpretation
Assessment of
Water Quality
Figure 5 Flow Chart for Assessment on Changes of Water Quality in Inle Lake
Source: Author
GIS and Remote Sensing technique is used to obtain water surface area
changes and land cover changes. First, field observations on some of the ground
check in the watershed area were taken with GPS (Global Positioning System) and
checked for land cover condition. Technical work included, digitizing the topographic
map (Datum: Indian 1954), making projection on ENVI software and edit the physical
and rivers watershed boundary in Geomedia Software. Second, land cover
classification was calculated with supervised classification and maximum likelihood
17
classification technique by applying TNTSTART Software and the accuracy was

checked again with ground survey. Satellite images of Landsat 7 ETM with six
Bands, for three different times (1990, 2000 and 2005) are used to observe the
changes of water surface area, land cover changes of these different times. (Figure 6)
Topographic Map
(Scanning and
Conversion to
Digital Format)
Ground Truth
Data
Satellite Data:
Landsat 7 ETM
Image Processing
Georeference Image to Map
(Rectifications)
Georeference Geographic
(Lat/Lon), Projection
Datum: Indian 1954
Image Processing
Digital Classification (Supervised)
Algorithm (Maximum likelihood)
Digitizing and Editing

Physical Boundary
Extracted with Watershed Boundary
Ground Truth Data

Final Editing and Overlay
Analysis of Data on GIS
Land Cover
Data (2000)
Land Cover Data (1995)
Land Cover
Data (2005)
Water Surface Area Changes of these three periods
Figure 6 Flow chart for Determination of Water Surface Area Changes

Source: Author
18
An interesting aspect of this work is related to the environmental perceptions.

Actually, the environmental situation of the region is strongly reflected on the people
awareness, perceptions and their activities. In this study, perceptions are based on
local people perceptions and the visitors' perceptions. Flow chart in figure 7 expressed
the perceptions of the last study.
Local People Perception
Visitors Perception
Primary Observation and Talks

Local people and government
staff
Primary Observation and Talks

With guests (Tourists& National
Visitors)
Construction of Structural Interviews

Environmental Perceptions esp. on water
Ecosystem Perceptions
Policy and Management
Suggestions for Conservation
Construction of Questionnaires
- Perceptions on water
- Perceptions on management
- Suggestions
Structural Interviews
(150 Persons)
Structured Interviews
(150 persons)
Questionnaires Survey
(50 persons)
Data Entry and Analysis
Overview and Suggestions
Figure 7 Flow Chart for Assessment of Facts and Perceptions of Waters of Inle
Lake Area
Source: Author
In this study, to obtain perceptions, interviews were conducted with local

people from various villages in and around the lake. Operationally, the relevant
factors for these questionnaires were derived from the pilot observation and informal
talks. After the questionnaires were prepared, tests were conducted twice. For local
people perceptions, two types of interviews were conducted with:
19
i.
Structural interviews on ancestors to obtain the changing of

environmental situation, ecosystem changes and their management
on water
ii.
Open talk interviews with governmental employees especially from

Forest
Department,
Education
Agriculture
Departments,
and
Agriculture
Irrigation
Department,
Department,
Medical
Department and non government organization (NGOs) to know the

environmental problems and present taking management in this area.
In addition, a general exploratory questionnaire survey was conducted to
obtain perceptions of visitors from national and international sources who visited to
Inle Lake for various purposes. The questionnaire is structured mainly on perceptions
of waters on Inle Lake. Questionnaires were distributed by hotel staff, tourist guides
and self.
20
CHAPTER 1
CHANGES OF WATER QUALITY IN INLE LAKE
Fresh water is a finite resource, essential for agriculture, industry and even
human existence (1996, UNEP, WHO). The characteristics of water body are different
in sea, river, ground water and lake and reservoir. All forms of water quality are
affected by natural and human activities in global scale. The affect of human
influences as well as natural process are widespread and varied in the degree of bodies
of water.
Table 1.1 Important Process Affecting Water Quality

Process type
Major process within water body
Water body
Hydrological
Dilution
All body of water
Evaporation
Surface water
Percolation and leaching
Ground water
Suspension and setting
Surface water
Gas exchange with atmosphere
Mostly rivers and lakes
Volatilisation
Adsorption/desorption
All water bodies
Heating and cooling
Diffusion
Lakes and groundwater
Photo degradation
Lakes and rivers
Acid base reaction
All water bodies
Redox reaction
All water bodies
Dissolution of particles
All water bodies
Precipitation of minerals
All water bodies
Ionic exchange
Ground water
Primary production
Surface water
Microbial die-off and growth
All water bodies
Decomposition of organic matter
Mostly Rivers and lakes
Bioaccumulation
Biomagnifications
Physical
Chemical
Biological
Source: Water Quality Monitoring, UNEP & WHO, 1996
Water quality is a term used here to express the suitability of water to sustain
various uses or process. Any particular use will have certain requirements for the
21
physical, chemical or biological characteristics of water. For example, limits on the

concentration of toxic substances for drinking water use, recreation on temperature
and pH range for water supporting invertebrate communities. Consequently, water
quality can be defined by a range of variables which limit water use, which will have
its own demands and influences on water quality (1996.UNEP, WHO).
Lake may be defined as a closed body of water (usually fresh water) totally
surrounded by land and with no direst assess to the sea. A lake may also be isolated,
with no observable direct water input and on occasions, no direct input. Lakes are
traditionally undervalued resources to human society. They provide a multitude of
uses and are prime regions for human settlement and habitation. Uses include
drinking and municipal water supply; industrial and cooling water supply; power
generation; navigation; commercial and recreational uses. In addition, lake water is
used for agricultural irrigation canalization and for waste disposal. It has been
commonly believed that large lakes have an infinite ability to absorb or dilute
industrial and municipal waste, it is largely the result of human waste disposal
practices that monitoring and assessment are providing to be necessary in many large
lake (1996. UNESCO, WHO, UNEP).
Actually Inle Lake is important, like the other lakes of the world based on
these following factors.
i.
Habitat for wild life
ii.
Support for food chain
iii.
Ground water recharge
iv.
Flood Control
v.
Home for residents
vi.
Resource for agriculture
Indeed, lakes are important and valuable recourses of both human and other form
of lives. Therefore, the main purposes of this study are to investigate the present status
of water quality in Inle Lake spatially and temporally, to assess whether the status of
water quality in Inle Lake is beyond the quality of thresholds value or not and to study
the influencing factors effecting on the water quality of Inle Lake.
1.1. Sources of Water in Inle Lake

Generally, sources of water into Inle Lake are;
a. direct precipitation on the surface of the lake,
22
b. inflowing water of streams from the surrounding drainage basin, and

storm runoff over the surface and
c. groundwater-subsurface flow either as seepage or discrete spring.
In Inle Watershed, there are five townships and their rainfall influence the
lake's water via inflowing water and run off to the lake. In the months of July, August,
September and October are the highest rainfall period and the water level of the lake
is increased and gradually decreases again from December to April and May.
Ra infa ll (m m )
Therefore, the water level is fluctuation according to the seasonal change.
500
450
400
350
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Months
Nyaung Shwe
Kalaw
Pinlaung
Taunggyi
Yaksauk
Source: Agriculture Department, Taunggyi
Figure 1.1 Average Monthly Rainfall of Inle Lake Watershed Area from 1990 to
2005
There are 29 streams which are draining into the Inle Lake. Most of the
streams flow from the watershed area except some small streams that disappeared into
the underground which the usual phenomena of the limestone area, then appeared
again after running for a few miles distance beneath the surface. Some of the streams
which enter the Inle Lake dried up in the cold season and summer, especially in the
eastern part of the lake. They are very short. In the western part, most of the main
streams of Inle Lake flow into the lake. Streams entering into the Inle Lake and their
watershed area are shown in Table 1.2 and Figure 1.2.
23
River
Lakeboundary
W atershed Boundary
Figure 1.2 Drainage Pattern of Inle Watershed Area

Source: Digitizing on Topographic Map, Myanmar Survey Department
10 Miles
Table 1.2 Streams Flowing into the Inle Lake and their Catchments Areas
sr
Stream(Chaung)
Catchments
sr
Stream(chaung)
(Sq. Mile)
1
Namlit Chaung*
Catchments
(Sq. Mile)
528
Northern Catchments(528 sq miles)

1
Shwe Linban Chaung
10
Kho Pan Chaung
Chaung Chauk Chaung
2.5
11
Nyaung Pin Kan Chaun
2.5
Nam Zi Chaung
13
12
Ye Pu Chaung
16
Loi Tant Chaung
13
Mae Za Li Chaung
11
Wartaw Chaung
1.5
14
Ye Pok Chaung
28
Tapyaypin Chaung
15
Da Li Chaung
Chaung Sout Chaung
16
Kan Per Chaung
Tale Oo Chaung
13
17
Nam Me Sin Chaung
19
Nyaung Gyi Chaung
6.5
Eastern Catchments(146 sq miles)

1
Tanakha Chaung
2.5
Indein Chaung
312
Ye Pe Chaung
136
Sein Car Myauk Chaung
17.5
Tae Kone Chaung
4.5
Magyi Seik Chaung
Magyi Pin Chaung
10
Hti Kan Chaung
Ye Oo Chaung
1.5
11
Pauktaw Chaung
Thandaung Chaung
256
Western Catchments(748 sq miles)

Source: Irrigation Department, Nyaung Shwe Township.
* Chaung = Stream
Among these streams, Nantlit Chaung (with 528 sq miles), Indein Chaung
(with 312 sq miles), Thandaung Chaung (with 256 sq miles) and Ye Pe Chaung (with
136 sq miles) are the biggest catchments. Nantlit Chaung is originated in northern part
of the watershed area, near Yauk Hsauk Township and passes through the Nyaung
Shwe Basin which is occupied by the whole agriculture land and finally enters into
the lake. In the western part, Thandaung Chaung, Indein Chaung and Ye Pe Chaung
pass through Thamakan Plain, Lonpo Plain and Heho Basin which are forest land,
intensive agriculture and settlement area and finally reach to the lake with delta
formation.
25
Lake can be lost their water source by outflow (surface discharge),

evaporation, losses to ground water, and water withdrawn for domestic, agriculture
(floating garden agriculture) and livestock farming. Inle Lake has one outflow stream
called Belu Chaung, and it is one of the resources of navigation (transportation),
fishing and aquaculture and water supply for Law-Pi-Ta electric power plants. Water
quality of the lake is related to the utilization of it resources. In Inle Lake, utilization
of water is as follow:
Table 1. 3 Utilization of Water in Inle Lake

Water Uses
Consuming
Contaminating
Domestic use
Yes
Yes
Livestock watering
Yes
Yes
Irrigation
Yes
Yes
Aquaculture
Yes
Yes
Commercial fisheries
Yes
Yes
Forestry and logging
Yes
Yes
Food processing
Yes
Yes
Textile industry
Yes
Yes
Water transportation
Yes
Yes
Hydroelectric power generation
No
No
Recreation
No
Yes
Sources: Based on the Water Quality Monitoring (1996) UNEP, WHO
1.2. Physical, Chemical and Biological Characteristic of Water Quality

Generally, water quality refers to chemical, physical and biological
characteristics of water. The chemical characteristics include the organic substances
such as heavy metal, pesticides, detergents and petroleum. The physical characteristic
consists of turbidity, colour and temperature, and biological characteristics include
plankton and pigment. According to UNEP and WHO (1996), water quality can be
defined by a range of variables which limit water use. Although many uses have some
common requirements for certain variables, each use will have its own demands and
influences on water quality.
26
1.2.1. Physical Characteristics

Physical characteristic of the water quality included temperature, colour,
odour, turbidity, total suspended solid and total dissolved solid. In this research,
temperature, turbidity, total dissolved solid (TDS), conductivity and alkalinity were
measured for physical characteristics.
1.2.1.1. Temperature
The most desirable drinking water are consistently cool and do not have
temperature fluctuations of more than a few degrees. Temperature varies with
seasonally and the annual water temperature range is only 2-3 C at the surface even
less at depth greater than 30 m. In shallow lakes, there is always a constant diurnal
temperature variation.
Temperature is nearly uniform in the morning, stratification occurred in the
afternoon and it destroyed during the night. Most individuals find that water having a
temperature between 10- 15 C is palatable. (1998. David Conwell)
1.2.1.2. Turbidity
The presence of suspended materials such as clay, silt, finely divided organic
materials, planktons and other particulate materials in water is known as turbidity.
Turbidity is of great important one because of the aesthetic considerations and
pathogenic organisms can hide or in the tiny colloidal particles. It is determined by
reference to a chemical mixture that produces a reproducible refraction of light.
The measurement unit is TU (Turbidity Unit) or NTU (Nephlometric
Turbidity Unit). Turbidity in excess of 5 TU is easily detectable in a glass of water
and its use usually objectionable for aesthetic reasons.
1.2.1.3. Total Dissolved Solid (TDS)

The solids measured known as total solids, which divided into two fractions:
total dissolved solids and total suspended solids. Water passes over through a variety
of rocks, soils and dissolved salts, agriculture land, urban area, industrial zones, etc
and it carry many properties. These dissolved minerals determine the chemical
properties of water such as hardness, acidity, conductivity, which in turn affect the
physical properties of water such as color, taste and odor as well as the capacity of the
water to support life (1999.Gray N.F.).
27
The total dissolved solids content of portable waters usually ranges from 20 to
1000 mg/L (2003. Sawyer et al.).
1.2.1.4. Conductivity
Conductivity is a measure of water's ability to conduct an electric current
which linked to the concentration of mineral salts in solution. Conductivity is
controlled by the degree to which these salts dissociate into ions.
Conductivity is measured using a specific electrode and is expressed in microsiemens per centimeter (S-1). Natural rivers and lakes have conductivity between 10
and 1000 S cm-1.
1.2.1.5. Alkalinity
A parameter related to pH is alkalinity, or the buffering capacity of the water
against acids. Water that has a high alkalinity can accept large does of an acid without
lowering the pH significantly. Water with low alkalinity, can experience a drop in the
pH with only a minor addition of hydrogen iron. The concentration of hydroxyl ions
is negligible compared to carbonate and bicarbonate.
Alkalinity is a measure of the ability of water to neutralize H- ions. It is often
calculated as the sum of the carbonate and bicarbonate ion concentrations in mg/L.
1.2.2. Chemical Characteristics

Chemical characteristic of the water quality are organic substances such as
heavy metal, nutrient, pesticides, detergents, petroleum and other chemical
substances. In this work, pH, Alkalinity, conductivity, dissolved oxygen (DO),
chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrate, phosphate and Arsenic were measured.
1.2.2.1. pH
pH is a term used rather universally express the intensity of the acid or
alkaline condition of a solution. Moreover, the pH of a solution is a measure of
hydrogen ion concentration, which in turn, is a measure of its acidity. It is a way of
expressing the hydrogen-ion concentration, or more precisely, the hydrogen-ion
activity (2003. Sawyer et. al).
The measurement of pH is now almost universally by electronic. The most
acceptable rate for drinking water is pH 7.
28
1.2.2.2. Nitrate
Nitrogen is an important element in biological reactions. Nitrogen usually
becomes available to the aquatic in the form of nitrate ions (NO3). The sources of
nitrogen are from agriculture. Organic nitrogen may be in high energy compounds
such as amino acids. Ammonia is one of the intermediate compounds formed during
biological metabolism and together with organic nitrogen, is concerned as an indicator
of recent pollution. Aerobic decomposition (oxidation) eventually produces nitrate
(NO2) and finally nitrate (NO3) from organically bond nitrogen and ammonia. A high
nitrate and low ammonia nitrogen suggests that pollution occurred, but sometime
before.
1.2.2.3. Phosphate
Phosphorus compound is important in the aquatic environment and their
measurement of total phosphates was indicated as Lake Eutrophication. Phosphorus in
waste water may be either organic or inorganic. All phosphorus in nature by
biological action will revert to inorganic forms to be again used by plants in making
high- energy materials. The sources of phosphorus are from human waste, municipal
waste water and synthetic detergents.
1.2.2.4. Arsenic
While arsenic is a highly toxic substance, it does not readily accumulate in the
food chain of ecosystems, although elevated level may be found in some fish. It may
be found as a result of minerals, contamination by industrial discharge, or runoff from
the application of insecticide.
1.2.2.5. Dissolved Oxygen

Oxygen is essential to all form of aquatic life, including those organisms
responsible for the self-purification process in natural water (1996. UNSECO, WHO,
UNEP). Dissolved Oxygen is the most important measure of water quality. Oxygen is
fundamental to aquatic life and without Dissolved Oxygen, streams and lakes become
uninhabitable to gill-breathing aquatic life organism.
Inversely, proportional to temperature and the maximum oxygen that can be
dissolved in water at most ambient temperature is about 9 mg/ L.
29
1.2.2.6. Chemical Oxygen Demand

An oxidation is accomplished with the chemical oxygen demand (COD) test
measured the organic strength of domestic and industrial waste. The test allows that
measurement of a waste in terms of the total quantity of oxygen required for oxidation
to carbon dioxide and water. Chemical oxygen demand values are always higher than
biochemical oxygen demand.
The concentration of COD observed in surface waters range from 20 mg/L
oxygen or less in polluted waters to greater than 200 mg/L oxygen in water receiving
effluents.
1.2.3. Biological Characteristic

Biological characteristic include plankton and pigment. And a bacteriological
characteristic of water is one of the biological characteristic of the water quality. In
this study, an e-coli form was measured for biological characteristic of water quality.
1.2.3.1. Total Coliform

The bacteriological quality of water is an important as the chemical quality
and for public health standpoint. It can be measure for bacteriological quality with the
concept of indicator organisms that indicate the possible presence of bacteria which
are pathogenic. This indicator most often used is a group of microbes of the family EColi (Escherichia coli) often called coli form bacteria. The total coliform for drinking
water was within 20 per 100ml.
1.3. Materials and Methods

To assess the water quality, collections of water samples are important in
water analysis and it is fully representative of the water of the Inle Lake. Similarly,
materials and method are also important in water quality measurement. In order to this
work, on field measurement with water analyzer for some water quality parameters
and laboratory tests for some of the water quality parameters were used.
1.3.1. Collection of Water Samples

Before the planning of water sampling and analysis can be started, it is
necessary to define clearly what information is needed and what is already available
and identify, as a major objective of the monitoring programme, the gaps thats need
30
to be filled. Lakes can be subject to several influences that cause water quality to vary
from place to place and from time to time (1996.Jamie Bartram and Richard Balance).
As a general rule, samples should be taken from each section of a lake which
can be regarded as homogeneous water mass. A small lake with single water mass
may be described by a single sampling station. If only sample is taken, it should be
located at the deepest part of the lake where oxygen deficits are likely to be greatest
(1996. UNESCO, WHO, UNEP).
The sampling of lakes for the purposes of assessing of water quality is a
complex process. As Inle Lake is a natural shallow lake and its depth varies
seasonally with the deepest part is 20 feet in rainy season and 12 feet in summer. In
this study, water samples were collected at (9) sample points (see in Figure 1.3) with
consideration for some factors as follow:
N
INLE LAKE
v
v v
v
v
v
v
12 Miles
Sample Sites
Watershed Boundary
Inle Lake
River
Figure 1.3 Collection Sites of Water Samples in Inle Lake

Source: Field Measurement
Sample 1
Sample 2
Sample 4
Sample 5
Sample 7
Sample 9
Sample 8
Bird Watching Tower
Plate 1.1. Collection Sites of Water Samples in Inle Lake

Source: Field Observation, 2006
Table 1.4 Collection Sites of Water Samples in Inle Lake

Sr.
1
Position
Coordinate
Thangdaung Spring
Code
N 20 32' 18.4"
S.S.1
Elevation
3090 ft
E 96 49' 34.8"
2
Ywama Village
N 20 29' 32.8''
Indein Stream
S.S.2
2948 ft
N 20 27' 32.5"
Myaynigone Village
S.S.3
2921 ft
At the month
N 20 32' 14.5"
S.S.4
E 96 55' 30.5"
Kela Village
N 20 30' 8.3"
2918 ft
S.S.5
2915 ft
S.S.6
E 96 54' 39.3"
Rest House
N 20 34' 32.4"
2918 ft
S.S.7
2899 ft
Nyaung Shwe Jetty
quality
Lake water quality (passing
Inflow
water
quality
Floating Garden, Human
Outflow
water
quality
(Southern)
S.S.8
2946 ft
E 96 55' 16.3"
9
water
impact
Between Inya and N 20 22' 31.5"

Taungto Village
Inflow
(Eastern)
E 96 53' 39.3"
7
Population growth, Shallow
villages, agriculture land)
of N 20 31' 6.9"
Tale-U Stream
quality
(Western)
E 96 50' 38.5"
5
water
part of the lake
E 96 50' 38.5"
4
Inflow
(Western)
E 96 53' 19''
3
Reasons
Open Space (central point

of the lake)
N 20 39' 0.17"
S.S.9
E 96 55' 36.8"
2837 ft
Starting Point of the lake

(Northern)
Source: Field Observation, 2006
There are some differences between lake and river to assess the quality of
water. The quality of water in rivers is usually measured horizontally but quality of
water in lake is measured vertically according to their physical characteristics such as
temperature, turbidity, etc. Naturally, lakes are stratified with three layers or three
zones. These are
1. the epilimnion or surface water of constant temperature (usually warm) mixed
throughout by wind and wave circulation,
2. the deeper high density water or hypolimnion (this is usually much colder,
although in tropical lakes the temperature difference between surface and
bottom water may be 2-3 C), and
3. a fairly sharp gradational zone between the two which is defined as the
metalimnion.
33
The name metalimnion is not commonly used and the gradation is normally
referred to as the thermocline. The thickness of the epilimnion may be quite substantial,
and it is dependent on the lake surface area, solar radiation, air temperature and lateral
circulation and movement of the surface water. Commonly, it extends about 10 meter
depth but in large lakes it can extend up to 30 meter depth. Stratification in very shallow
lake is generally rare since they have warm water mixing throughout their water column
due to wind energy input. However winter and cold water stratification can occur even
in the shallowest lakes under certain climatic conditions.
Surface Layer (Layer a)
Middle Layer 1 meter

(Layer b)
E p il i m ni on
Thermocline
Hypolimnion
4
8
12
16
20
24
Layer c (Deepest Part)
Figure 1.4 Collections of Water Samples for Layers in Inle Lake

Source: Oliver S. Owen (1985), Natural Resource Conservation: An Ecological Approach
Since Inle Lake is a natural shallow lake in tropical area, it has some limitation
to define stratification because the shallowest part of the lake's water body is only 1.4
feet (0.5 meter) but in rainy season the water body has more increased about 6 feet
more (1.8 meter) than the summer condition. Therefore, in this study water samples
were collected with three layers of surface layer (layer a), one meter depth layer (layer
b) and the deepest of the layers (layer c).
Besides, three layers water samples is intended for some parameters such as
pH, Temperature, Turbidity, Conductivity, TDS, DO, COD and took samples for one
layer of Nitrate, Phosphate, Alkalinity, Arsenic, Total Coliform. For seasonal changes,
water samples were taken in April (28.4.2006 to 30.4.2006) for summer water quality
condition, in August (2.9.2006 to 4.9.2006) for rainy season and in December
(5.12.2006 to 7.12.2006) for cold season water quality condition.
1.3.2. Analysis of Water

To examine the water quality, two methods were used. One was on-field
measurement and another was collection on water in bottles and measured in
laboratory. The methods used for this investigation are as follow:
1.3.2.1. Temperature
Temperature of the water sample was measured by Water Analyzer
(HORIBA- Sensor of Water Quality Monitor, Made in Korea).
1.3.2.2. Turbidity
The turbidity of the water sample was measured by Water Analyzer
(HORIBA- Sensor for Water Quality Monitor, Made in Korea).
1.3.2.3. Total Dissolved Solid (TDS)

Total Dissolved Solid of the sample was measured by Water Analyzer
(HORIBA-Sensor for Water Quality Monitor, Made in Korea).
1.3.2.4. Conductivity
The conductivity of the water sample was measured by Water Analyzer
1.3.2.5. Alkalinity
Alkalinity of the water sample was measured by with direct reading titrator.
1.3.2.4. pH
The pH value of the water sample was measured by Water Analyzer
(HORIBA- Sensor for Water Quality Monitor, Made in Korea).
35
1.3.2.7. Nitrate
Nitrate of the water sample was measured by Cadmium Reduction Method.
1.3.2.8. Phosphate
Phosphate of the water sample was measured by Ascorbic Acid Reduction
Method.
1.3.2.9. Arsenic
Arsenic of the water sample was measured by with Atomic Absorption
Spectrophotometry Method.
1.3.2.10. Dissolved Oxygen (DO)

Dissolved Oxygen of the water sample was measured by Water Analyzer
1.3.2.11. Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)

Chemical Oxygen Demand was measured by Closed Reflux, Titrimetric
Method.
1.3.2.12. Total Coliform

A total coli form of water sample was measured by (MPN) Fermentation
Technique.
1.4. Spatial Distribution of Water Quality in Inle Lake

Interpretation of water quality data cannot provide meaningful conclusions
unless based on the temporal and spatial variability of the hydrological regime
(1996.UNESCO, WHO, UNEP). Spatial variation in water quality is one of the main
features of different type of water body.
In this work, 9 sample sites were collected from the Inle Lake. Collection in
water samples, sample 1 and 3 are for inflow water quality, sample 2 and 6 are for
human impact on the water (agriculture, settlement, transportation and industries),
sample 4 and 5 are water quality of the lake where water passes through settlement
and agriculture, sample 8 is for central point of the lake, sample 7 is for outflow and
sample 9 is for starting point of the lake.
36
Sample 1 was collected at Thandaung Spring; it is also called as Kalaw

Chaung when it passes Kalaw and Aung Ban, and it flows through the Thamakhan
Valley which is shifting cultivation and rotational cultivation land, and as it near Inle
Lake it disappeared as a subterranean system flowing beneath the ground was called
Ngot Chaung. For some distance, than it is appeared again at Thangdaung Village as
spring.
Kalaw Chaung or Thangdaung Chaung is one of the biggest streams of its
catchments for Inle Lake and it entered the lake forming deltas formation, one of the
tributaries enters at Myaynigone village: collected for sample 4. Therefore, sample 3
represented water quality of lake as well as it can compare with sample 1 the
difference between inflow water quality and lake water quality that passed through
settlement, agriculture and industries.
Similarly, sample 3 is intended for inflow water quality at Indain, which is
also one of the biggest catchments stream of the lake and it originate at Pinlaung the
southwestern part of the Inle Watershed area. This area is shifting agriculture area and
flows to the lake formatting delta formation but it has one sediment trapping dam.
Another sample was Ywama village sample 2, was collected from for
shallow part of the lake and one of the populated areas of Inle Lake.
For inflow water of eastern part of the lake was collected at mouth of Thale-U
stream as sample 5. Turbidity is varied between inflowing water and lake's water
quality and it is very significant in sample1 and sample 3.
Sample 6 was collected for intensive floating garden cultivation, populated
area as well as shallow part of the lake. For outflow water, sample 7 was collected
between Inya and Taungto Village and sample 8 was collected for central point of the
open lake at the Rest House.
The last one was collected for starting point of the lake at Nyaung Shwe jetty.
All these samples, some of the parameters were found nearly the same value but some
variables were found different from one place to another. See in Table 1.5, 1.6 and 1.7
37
8.60
8.50
8.51
7.9
7.5
7.3
5
54
35
2.52
.17
0
918
8.63
8.63
3.01
0.24
0
+2400
8
68
8.2
7.8
184
40.4
40.7
260
260
+2400
2.87
.03
0
16
65
7.2
7.2
8.37
8.09
120
37.7
28.3
180
180
36
11
22.2
21.1
17:45
S.S.5
+1609
0
.19
0
22
79
4.1
5.2
8.02
8.02
240
40.8
32.0
260
270
14
15
22.1
22.3
17:00
S.S.6
38
21.9
21.4
21.5
130
430
680
220
230
240
33.7
35.3
36.2
160
22.5
22.6
37
13
15:25
11:49
S.S.4
15:30
10:00
Time
Physical Characteristic
Temperature
a
23.7
22.4
(C)
b-1m
23.5
22.1
c
23.0
Turbidity
a
180
150
(NTU)
b-1m
190
160
c
200
TDS(mg/l)
a
350
260
b-1m
350
280
c
340
Conductivity
a
53.8
40.5
(m s/m)
b-1m
53.0
32.0
c
53.0
Alkalinity (ppm) a
230
200
Chemical Characteristic
pH
a
8.05
8.51
b-1m
8.05
8.50
c
8.04
DO
a
7.0
7.5
(mg/l)
b-1m
6.7
7.3
c
6.6
COD
a
4
16
(mg/l)
b-1m
54
76
c
32
Nitrate(ppm)
b
0
0
Phosphate(ppm) b
1.24
0.36
Arsenic (ppm)
b
0
0
Biological Characteristic
Total Coliform
a
+2400
+2400
*Weather Condition: Storm and raining
S.S.1
S.S.3
Layer
S.S.2
Sample
+2400
7.58
8.39
8.42
5.7
6.5
7.1
26
51
38
2.87
.26
0
21.3
21.2
21.3
9
10
13
230
200
200
35.0
31.0
31.1
148
9:30
S.S.7
NA
8.70
8.88
8.64
7.6
7.9
7.3
50
68
42
0
.17
0
23.1
23.3
22.8
6
7
8
220
190
200
31.9
29.9
30.6
128
14:40
S.S.8
+1609
0
.24
0
56
60
6.4
6.7
8.23
8.47
200
47.0
46.9
130
300
93
170
22.6
22.8
15:20
S.S.9
10
0.01
7.0-8.5
250
0.15-15.0
1.000
50
0-0.5
10.0
6.5-9.2
400
mg/l
50-1500
25
WHO Standard
Drinking Potable
Table 1.5 Physical, Chemical and Biological Characteristics of Water Quality of Inle Lake from 28. 3.2006 to 30.3. 2006
Layer
Time
Temperature
a
(C)
b
c
Turbidity
a
(NTU)
b
c
TDS
a
(mg/l)
b
c
Conductivity
a
(m s/m)
b
c
Alkalinity (ppm) a
pH
a
b
c
DO
a
(mg/l)
b
c
a
COD
b
(mg O2/l)
c
Nitrate (ppm)
b
Phosphate (ppm) b
Arsenic (ppm)
b
Total Coliform
b
*Weather Condition: Raining
Sample
0
0.29
0
35
80
4
59
6.0
6.1
7.90
8.10
210
31.7
29.8
210
190
150
210
23.6
23.7
S.S.2
7.95
7.92
7.92
7.1
7.0
7.0
4
52
30
0
0.44
0
27.8
28.0
27.6
540
560
590
150
150
150
23.5
23.8
23.7
200
S.S.1
35
7.65
8.05
8.14
8.3
8.0
8.0
24
48
32
2.00
0.39
0
28.2
28.0
28.0
25
53
54
260
240
240
41.0
36.7
36.5
145
S.S.4
7.10
6.90
7.20
5.7
4.3
3.1
4
60
26
3.05
0.17
7.0
26.0
25.4
25.1
19
22
21
270
240
230
41.5
37.0
36.2
115
S.S.5
250
7.10
7.40
8.10
8.2
8.1
8.0
9
39
33
2.98
0.24
0
23.3
23.1
23.1
500
450
430
200
190
180
31.6
28.9
27.1
190
S.S.3
39
7.66
7.82
7.70
2.1
3.2
3.8
27
70
20
0
0.24
0
26.3
25.7
27.4
40
41
62
230
220
330
35.1
34.3
52.1
225
S.S.6
35
7.50
7.30
7.80
2.6
4.1
4.6
30
45
35
3.0
024
0
26.7
26.5
26.5
18
19
26
210
230
200
32.5
35.1
30.9
145
S.S.7
8.85
9.02
8.99
8.5
9.0
8.7
48
59
39
0
0.21
0
27.5
26.4
25.8
26
30
34
180
170
170
27.2
26.8
26.5
120
S.S.8
25
7.77
7.90
8.01
6.3
6.4
6.2
50
55
20
1.0
0.55
0
29.1
29.2
28.8
190
160
130
430
220
210
34.8
33.3
32.8
220
S.S.9
10 mg/l
0.01
7.0-8.5
250
0.15-15.0
1.000
mg/l
50 mg/l
0-0.5
10.0
6.5-9.2
400
mg/l
50-1500
25
WHO Standard
Drinking Potable
Table 1.6 Physical, Chemical and Biological Characteristics of Water Quality of Inle Lake from 2.9.2006 to 4.9.2006
Layer
8.25
8.58
8.66
8.4
8.0
7.8
30
0
0
2.0
0.20
0
250
8.76
8.81
8.85
8.0
8.0
7.8
24
0
0
0
0.20
0
350
8.29
8.00
8.02
6.5
6.9
7.0
26
22
0
0
0.23
0
20.0
19.6
19.4
250
220
190
230
260
220
45.1
43.6
42.7
200
S.S.3
20.8
20.5
20.4
130
130
160
300
280
280
44.5
41.6
41.3
215
S.S.2
21.1
20.9
20.9
100
68
73
360
390
410
56.7
58.4
63.0
200
S.S.1
Nitrate (ppm)
b
Phosphate (ppm) b
Arsenic (ppm)
b
Total Coliform
b
550
Weather Condition: shiny and fine
Time
Temperature
a
(C)
b
c
Turbidity
a
(NTU)
b
c
TDS
a
(mg/l)
b
c
Conductivity
a
(m s/m)
b
c
Alkalinity (ppm) a
pH
a
b
c
DO
a
(mg/l)
b
c
COD
(mg O2 /l)
Sample
40
8.25
8.23
8.01
5.2
5.9
4.1
2
0
0
3.0
0.10
0
20.1
20.6
20.0
24
23
36
310
260
260
32.4
31.4
33.0
110
S.S.5
40
250
8.02
8.02
8.10
4.0
4.4
4.5
6
0
6
0
0.24
0
21.3
21.1
20.9
31
33
38
230
260
260
47.2
39.7
39.3
220
S.S.6
350
7.93
8.00
8.90
4.9
5.3
5.0
25
5
0
2.0
0.29
0
19.5
20.1
20.1
23
37
25
210
200
210
35.5
40.5
33.5
150
S.S.4
20
7.93
8.00
8.90
2.6
3.9
4.2
8
0
0
3.0
0.20
0
19.5
20.1
20.1
23
37
25
230
260
220
35.5
40.5
33.5
150
S.S.7
8.25
8.50
8.25
8.9
8.9
8.0
4
0
27
0.9
0.18
0
22.8
22.4
21.3
60
38
40
260
230
230
40.3
35.5
35.0
120
S.S.8
95
8.20
8.30
8.50
6.9
6.7
6.3
22
0
23
1.0
0.40
0
20.2
20.4
20.9
240
220
210
320
320
380
54.9
52.4
52.4
200
S.S.9
10 mg/l
0.01
50 mg/l
0-0.5
10.0
250
400
mg/l
0.15-15.0
50-1500
1.000
mg/l
6.5-9.2
25
7.0-8.5
WHO Standard
Drinking Potable
Table1.7 Physical, Chemical and Biological Characteristics of Water Quality in Inle Lake from 5.12.2006 to 7.12. 2006
1.4.1. Temperature
According to the results of water quality in April (see in table. 1.5),
Temperature variation of lake is important because vertical measurement of lake
temperature formed thermocline and it influences on DO and aquatic life. The
weather condition of the collection time, in April was storm, windy and raining.
Therefore the variation of temperature was not much different in all the sample sites
as well as in vertical measurements. Some of the sample sites, temperature slightly
decreases to layer c and in some sample sites layer b and layer c are not significantly
different.
1.4.2. Turbidity
The most prominent spatial variation characteristic of water in Inle Lake is
turbidity. Maximum turbidity level was found in sample 4, Myaynigone Village,
located at the mouth of Thangdung Stream with the value of 130 NTU for layer a, 430
NTU for layer b, 680 NTU for layer c and minimum turbidity was in sample 8, Rest
House, located at the middle part of the lake or open space of the lake, with the value
of 6 NTU for layer a, 7 NTU for layer b, 8 NTU for layer c. In comparing the inflow
water quality of sample 1(Thangdaung River) with sample 3 (Indain River), before
reaching the lake, sample 1or Thandaung Stream carries many substances which
causes turbidity 180 NTU for layer a, 190 for NTU layer b, 200 NTU for layer c but
sample 3 or Indain Stream has less turbidity 37 NTU for layer a, 13 NTU for layer b.
The reason for lesser turbidity of sample 3 is due to the construction of silt trapping
dam at the upper part of the Indain Stream. This data represents that the turbidity
causes sedimentation and it deposits at the mouth of Thandaung Stream, near
Myaynigone Village (sample 4). Turbidity is significantly varied with these inflowing
water and lake water condition, in sample 5 with 36 NTU for layer a and 11 NTU for
layer b.
1.4.3. Total Dissolved Solid (TDS)

Variations in TDS of the all sample sites are not different. These are in the
range between 350 mg/L and 180 mg/l. Of those samples, the highest was found at
sample 1 or Thandaung Chaung and sample 9 or Nyaung Shwe jetty with over 300 g/l
and the lowest was found at sample 5 or Tale-U Village.
1.4.4. Conductivity
In Inle Lake, conductivity was not significantly varied within the entire sample
sites. The value of conductivity lies between 20 to 50 m s/m.
1.4.5. Alkalinity
Alkalinity has between 100 ppm to over 200 ppm. Among the water sample
sites, maximum Alkinnity was found in sample 6 and sample 1 with the value of 240
ppm and 230 ppm. But minimum alkalinity occurred in sample 5 with the value of
120 ppm. This value showed that the water is more alkaline than acidity.
1.4.6. pH
Value for the pH is not significantly different from one sample to another. In
vertical measurements, layer a, layer b and layer c were slightly different, e.g. in
sample 7 or out flowing water, pH value was 7.58 for layer a, 8.39 for layer b and
8.42 for layer c, and pH value of sample 8 or Rest House (central point of the lake)
was 8.70 for layer a, 8.88 for layer b and 8.42 for layer c.
1.4.7. Nitrate
Nutrient of nitrogen and phosphate is one of the important variables of lake's
water quality. In this work, nitrates of all samples are different. Sample 1 or
Thangdaung Stream, sample 2 or Ywama Village, sample 6 or Kela Village , sample
8 or Rest House and sample 9 or Nyaung Shwe Jetty have no nitrate. Nitrate is
found at sample 3 or Indain Stream, sample 4 or near Myaynigone Village, sample 5
or mouth of Tale-U Stream and sample 7 or between Inya and Taungto Village. First,
Sample 1 at Thandaung Chaung has no nitrate but it passes through the agriculture
land and settlement area and arriving at sample 4, near Myaynigone Village, nitrate
reached to 2.52 ppm. In winter and rainy season, see table 1.6 and table 1.7, nitrate
was found at sample 3 or Indain Stream, sample 4 or Myaynigone Village, sample 5
or Tale-U Village, sample 7 or between Taungto and Inya Villages and, sample 8 or
Rest House and sample 9 or Nyaung Shwe Jetty.
1.4.8. Phosphate
Phosphate was found in every sample in Inle Lake. The phosphate distribution
in Inle Lake was between 0.03 to 1.34 ppm. The maximum rate was found at sample 1
42
or Thandaung Chaung and the minimum rate was found at the sample 5 Tale U
Village or at the mouth of inflow water quality from eastern part.
1.4.9. Arsenic
Arsenic is one of the trace elements of water quality. In Inle Lake, there is no
significant arsenic in all the samples sites. But arsenic was found in sample 5 (mouth
of Tale-U Stream) in only in rainy season.
1.4.10. Dissolved Oxygen (DO)

Dissolved Oxygen (DO) measurement depends upon the collection time and
sample sites condition because DO is influenced by temperature and wind blow
condition or turbulence. Within all sample sites, DO range was the highest in sample
3 Indain Stream with the value of 8.2 mg/l for layer a, 7.8 mg/l for layer b and the
lowest is found at sample 6 or Kela Village with the value of 4.2 mg/l for layer a, 5.2
mg/l for layer b.
1.4.11. Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)

The variation of Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) in Inle Lake was different
from one sample to another. The maximum COD was found at sample 8, the middle
part of the lake or open space of the lake, with the value of 50 mg O2/l for layer a, 68
mg O2/l for layer b, 42 mg O2/l for layer c and the minimum COD was found at
sample 1 or Thangdaung Stream with the value of 4 mg O2/l layer a, 54 mg O2/l layer
b, 32 mg O2/l layer c and sample 4 or Myaynigone Village with the value of 5 mg O2/l
for layer a , 54 mg O2/l for layer b, 35 mg O2/l for layer c. Generally, COD was the
highest in layer c (the lowest layer) and in layer a (surface layer).
1.4.12. Total Coliform

Total Coliform is found in all sample sites of the Inle Lake. Total Coliform is
varied spatially. The highest coliform was found at samples 1 (Thangdaung Stream),
sample 2 (Ywama Village), sample 3 (Indain Stream), sample 5 (Tale-U Village) and
sample 6 (Kela Village) with +2400 MPN/100l and the lowest coliform was found at
sample 4 with 918 MPN/100l.
43
1.4.13. Summery of Spatial Variation of Water Quality in Inle Lake

In this study, the most significant of water quality variation were turbidity and
Dissolved Oxygen (DO). The others parameters were not significantly varied
spatially. The maximum turbidity was found in sample 4 or near Myaynigone Village
which located at the mouth of Thandaung Stream. The minimum turbidity was found
in the middle part of the lake. This data represent that the turbidity causes
sedimentation and deposited at the mouth of Thandaung Stream. These processes will
be increased delta formation in the western part of the lake.
DO variable depend upon the collection time and algae growth. Generally, DO
is increased in day time and decrease in at night. It is very obvious that the DO varied
depending upon the algae bed condition. Table 1.8 and 1.9.
Table 1.8 Spatial and Temporal Variations of Some Water Quality Parameters
(Between Bird Watching and Rest House) in 4th August, 2006
Sr
Location
1 Bird Watching
N 20 36' 15.4"
E 96 54' 1.01"
Time
Tem:
DO
(*)
mg/l
Condu:
Turbity
TDS
m s/m
NTU
mg/l
6:30
25.1
25.2
25.2
1.3
2.7
2.7
7.20
7.63
7.80
34.5
32.0
31.5
31
28
43
220
210
210
12:30
27.1
26.0
25.6
25.7
25.7
25.6
24.9
25.3
25.1
25.3
25.6
25.6
29.2
27.7
26.3
26.3
25.7
27.4
26.2
27.2
26.3
4.4
2.9
2.3
0.2
0.2
0.2
1.5
2.8
2.7
8.2
7.8
7.6
8.1
8.7
5.2
6.3
6.4
6.2
8.4
8.4
8.5
7.93
7.96
7.89
7.77
7.79
8.01
7.72
7.88
7.83
8.21
8.50
8.78
8.53
8.91
8.50
8.85
9.02
8.99
7.80
8.50
8.77
32.0
31.8
31.9
24.8
33.3
32.8
34.1
32.6
32.3
30.5
28.3
27.8
28.3
28.2
28.6
27.2
26.8
26.5
31.4
27.8
26.9
24
27
41
190
160
130
34
29
26
28
27
27
24
38
37
26
30
34
23
22
24
210
210
210
430
220
210
230
220
210
200
280
180
190
180
190
200
180
180
200
180
180
18:30
24:30
2 Rest House
pH
6:00
N 20 34' 32.4"
E 96 55' 16.3"
12:00
18:00
24:00
*Weather Condition was raining and windy

44
Water quality can be varied with spatially and temporally. In this study, some
of the water quality was varied with different situation on samples. Tables 1.8 and 1.9
showed that the measurement of some water quality parameters variation in two
different places: at Bird Watching Center and at Rest House.
Table 1.9 Spatial and Temporal Variations of Some Water Quality Parameters
(Between Bird Watching and Rest House) in 5th December, 2006
Sr
1
Location
Bird Watching
N 20 36' 15.4"
E 96 54' 1.01"
Rest House
N 20 34' 32.4"
E 96 55' 16.3"
Time(*)
Tem:
C
DO
mg/l
pH
Condu:
(m s/m)
Turbidly
(NTU)
TDS
mg/l
6:30
21.7
20.1
19.9
5.7
3.5
3.5
8.07
7.93
7.95
43.7
39.5
38.5
29
27
25
290
260
250
12:30
21.6
20.5
19.8
2.4
5.7
3.1
7.96
8.02
8.01
39.2
38.2
38.0
180
140
110
260
250
250
18:30
21.7
20.1
19.9
5.7
3.5
3.5
8.07
7.93
7.95
43.7
39.5
38.5
29
27
25
290
260
250
24:30
19.4
19.8
19.8
1.6
3.5
2.9
7.84
7.93
7.95
38.8
37.8
38.2
23
25
23
250
250
250
6:00
20.2
20.7
21.0
7.4
7.5
7.6
8.42
8.65
8.65
36.6
34.3
33.6
22
21
23
240
220
220
12:00
22.7
22.6
22.2
7.2
7.9
8.1
8.48
8.75
8.81
38.8
34.1
32.0
26
57
59
250
220
220
18:00
22.8
22.4
21.3
8.9
8.9
8.0
8.25
8.50
8.25
40.3
35.5
35.0
60
38
40
260
230
230
24:00
21.0
21.1
21.2
8.7
8.4
6.6
8.72
8.75
8.55
38.0
34.0
33.4
20
20
20
250
220
220
* Weather Condition was Fine and shiny

At Bird watching Center site, there is very thick algae bed but at Rest House
site, there is thin algae bed. Between these two different algae weed beds, pH,
temperature, conductivity, turbidity, TDS and DO are different in value with spatially
and temporally.
45
It is very significant that Dissolved Oxygen different between these two

places: at Bird Watching DO was very low 0.2mg/l to 4.4 mg/l but at Rest House DO
was 6.2 mg/l to 8.5 mg/l. Dissolved Oxygen was varied from time to time. At Bird
Watching Center site, DO was the lowest in the evening (18:30) with the value of 0.2
mg/l for layer a, b and c in rainy season but DO was the lowest at midnight (24:30) in
winter with the value of 1.6 mg/l for layer a, 3.5 mg/l for layer b and 2.9 mg/l for
layer c. At the same time, at Rest House site, DO was the lowest in the evening
(18:00) with the value of 6.3 mg/l for layer a, 6.4 mg/l for layer b and 6.2 mg/l layer c
in the rainy season.
Therefore, DO value was varied from time to time depend upon the condition
of algae bed. Besides, pH value was also different, at Bird Watching Center was 7.2
to 8.0, but at Rest House was 8.2 to 9.0.
Turbidity was not much different between these two places, but at day time
some turbidity value was high because of motorboats transportation in the lake. Total
Dissolved Solid was not much different but Bird Watching Center site has more TDS
than Rest House site.
Therefore, algae conditions are one of the important influencing characteristic
of water quality in Inle Lake. See in Table 1.8 and 1.9.
Spatial variation of water quality in Inle Lake can be shown in figure 1.5, 1.6
and 1.7.
46
Temperature ( C)
< 21
21.1 - 22
> 22
No Data
TDS (mg/L)
< 150
151 - 250
> 251
No Data
Turbidity (NTU)
< 50
50 - 200
> 200
No Data
pH
Conductivity (m s/m)
< 30
31 - 40
> 41
No Data
Alkalinity (ppm)
< 100
101 - 200
> 200
No Data
< 8.3
8.31 - 8.6
> 8.61
No Data
Figure 1.5(a) Distributions of Water Quality Variables for Summer

Source: Based on Analysis Data (b layer)
12 M
DO (mg/L)
< 6.1
6.1 - 7.0
> 7.0
No Data
Phosphate (ppm)
< 0.167
0.167 - 0.304
> 0.304
No Data
COD (mg O /L)

< 60
61 - 70
> 70
No Data
Arsenic (ppm)
0
No Data
Nitrate (ppm)
< 2.5
2.51 - 3
> 3.01
No Data
Coliform (MPN/1
< 1500
1501 - 2100
> 2100
No Data
Figure 1.5 (b) Distributions of Water Quality Variables for Summer

Temperature (C)
< 25
25.1 - 27
> 27.1
No Data
< 28
28 - 33
> 33
No Data
Turbidity (NTU)
< 180
180- 210
>210
No Data
Alkalinity (ppm)
< 150
150- 200
> 200
No Data
Extract from
< 180
181 - 210
> 210
No Data
pH
< 7.6
7.6 - 8.3
> 8.3
No Data
Figure 1.6(a) Distributions of Water Quality Variables for Rainy Season

DO (mg/L)
< 5.1
5.2- 7.0
> 7.0
No Data
Phosphate (ppm)
< 0.297
0.297- 0.42
> 0.42
No Data
COD (mg O2/L)

< 50
50 - 65
> 65
No Data
Arsenic (ppm)
<4
4-6
>6
No Data
Nitrate (ppm)
< 1.0
1.0- 2.0
> 2.0
No Dat
Coliform (MPN
1 - 250
251 - 500
500 - 900
No Data
Figure 1.6 (b) Distributions of Water Quality Variables for Rainy Season
Temperature ( C)
< 20
20 - 21
> 21
No Data
< 38.4
38.4 - 45.3
> 45.3
No Data
Turbidity (NTU)
< 70
71- 160
> 161
No Data
Alkalinity (ppm)
< 150
151 - 200
> 201
No Data
TDS (mg/L)
< 290
291 - 380
> 381
No Data
pH
< 8.27
8.27 - 8.54
> 8.54
No Data
Figure 1.7 (a) Distributions of Water Quality Variables for Cold Season
DO (mg/L)
< 5.5
5.5- 7.2
> 7.2
No Data
Phosphate (ppm)
< 0.2
0.2 - 0.3
> 0.3
No Data
COD (mg O2/L)

<2
2 .0- 4.0
> 4.0
No Data
Arsenic (ppm)
0
No Data
Nitrate (ppm)
<1
1- 2
>2
No Data
Coliform (MPN/ 1
< 150
150- 300
> 300
No Data
Figure 1.7(b) Distributions of Water Quality Variables for Cold Season

1.5. Temporal Variation of Water Quality in Inle Lake

Water quality of the lake is also different from time to time. At day time,
temperature is high and at night time temperature decreased. Some of the water
quality parameters and aquatic life change according to this process.
According to the UNESCO, WHO, UNEP on the water quality assessment, it is
important to define temporal variability, and five major types are considered here;
i. minute-to-minute to day-to-day variability resulting from water mixing,
fluctuations in inputs, etc., mostly linked to meteorological conditions and water
body size (e.g. variations during river flood)
ii. diel variability (24 hour variations) limited to biological cycles, light/dark cycle
etc. (e.g. O2, nutrients, pH) and to cycles in pollution inputs (e.g. domestic waste)
iii. days-to-months variability mostly in connection with climatic factors (river
regime, lake overturn, etc.) and to pollution sources (e.g. industrial waste waters,
run-off from agricultural land).
iv. the seasonal hydrological and biological cycles (mostly in climatic factors).
v. year-to-year trends, mostly due to human influences
According to the measurement, likes other tropical shallow lake, the Inle lake's
water quality has seasonal variation. But unfortunately, the summer water quality
condition was affected by storm influences during the time of measurement.
Therefore, in this study, the lake's water quality can only represent for this weather
condition. As Inle Lake is a natural shallow lake, vertical measurement is divided into
three layers: layer a (surface water), layer b (middle layer or 1 meter depth) and layer
c (the deepest part of the water at sample site) in this study.
1.5.1. Sample 1
Sample 1 was taken from Thangdaung Stream. It is one of the inflowing water
to the lake from the western part of the lake. This sample was collected for the
purpose to measure the water quality of inflowing water into the lake. Temperature of
in this sample was 23.7C for layer a, 23.5C for layer b and 23.0C for layer c. The
temperature was decreasing to the layer c. The temperature of water in the rainy
season was 5 C greater than that of summer condition. But in the cold season, the
temperature was 2 C lower than that of summer.
Turbidity was the highest in the rainy season with 540 NTU for layer a, 560
NTU for layer b and 590 NTU for the layer c. The lowest value was in the cold season
53
with 100 NTU for layer a, 68 NTU for layer b and 73 NTU for layer c. Total
Dissolved Solid was the highest in the cold season with 360 g/l for layer a, 390 g/l for
layer b and 410 g/l for layer c and in summer 350 g/l for layer a, 350 g/l for layer b
and 360 g/l for layer c. The lowest in rainy season was 150 g/l for all layers because
of dilution.
The maximum value of pH was found in the cold season with 8.29 for layer a,
8.00 for layer b and 8.02 for layer c and in summer 8.05 layer a, 8.05 for layer b and
8.04 for layer c. The minimum value was found in rainy season. Conductivity was the
highest in the cold season and summer over 50 m s/m and the lowest in rainy season
with about 20 m s/m.
Alkalinity was not much different and has within around 200 ppm. Nitrogen
was not found in all three seasons but phosphate was found in all three seasons and
the highest in summer. This figure shows that inflowing water of Thangdaung Stream
has more phosphate than nitrogen. This is because of types of utilization of fertilizers
in the watershed area. Arsenic was not found in this sample in all three seasons.
Dissolved oxygen (DO) was not different in all three seasons. COD was the
highest in the cold season with 26 mg/l for layer a, 22 mg/l for layer b and 0 mg/ l for
layer c and COD for summer and rainy season was the same condition in this sample
site.
Total Coliform was very prominent characteristics of seasonal changes. The
highest amount of Total Coliform was found in summer with +2400 MPN/100 ml.
But it decrease to 80 MPN/100 ml in rainy season. See in table 1.10.
1.5.2. Sample 2
This sample was collected at Ywama Village. It represents the lake water
which comes from Indain Chaung and concentrated at one of the most populated
areas. In this sample, temperature was not much different between these three seasons
and it value was between 20 and 23 C for all layers.
Turbidity, TDS, conductivity and alkalinity were also not much different in
these three seasons. The turbidity was found in 150 to 210 NTU for all seasons. TDS
was found about 0.30 g/l. Arsenic and nitrate were not found in this sample.
For pH value, the highest in the cold season with 8.76 for layer a, 8.82 for
layer b and 8.85 layer c and the lowest in rainy season with 7.90 for layer a, 8.10 for
layer b.
54
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) was not significantly different within these three
seasons, the highest value in the cold season with 8.0 mg/l for layer a, 8.0 mg/l for
layer b and 7.8 mg/l for layer c.
The significant changes was Total Coliform, with the maximum value was in
summer with +2400 MPN/100ml and the minimum value was in rainy season 35
MPN/100 ml. Table 1.11.
1.5.3. Sample 3
Sample 3 was collected from Indain Chaung, one of the biggest streams and it
flow from the western part of the lake. It has silt trapping dam. In this sample, the
temperature of winter was only 2 or 3 C less than summer and rainy season.
The significant variation was turbidity in this sample site. Turbidity was 37
NTU layer a, 13 NTU for layer b in summer, but turbidity was dramatically increased
to 540 NTU for layer a, 450 NTU for layer b and 430 NTU for layer c in rainy season.
In the cold season, it was still turbid with 250 NTU for layer a, 220 NTU for layer b
and 190 NTU for layer c.
TDS was not much varied for three seasons. pH value was the lowest in rainy
season with 7.10 for layer a, 7.40 for layer b and 8.10 for layer c and nearly the same
condition in summer and the cold season from 8.2 to 8.6.
Conductivity was not significantly varied around 30 to 40 m s/m and also
alkalinity was nearly the same value in three seasons with around 200 ppm.
In this sample sites, nutrients of nitrate and phosphate were found in all
seasons that nitrate was the highest in rainy season with 2.98 ppm and phosphate was
not significantly varied and the value was around .20 ppm.
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) was found that the variation was not much different.
The maximum COD was found in rainy season with the value of 9 mg O2/ l for layer
a, 39 mg O2/ l for layer b and 33 mg O2/ l for layer c.
Similar to other samples, Total Coliform was varied with seasons, the highest
was in summer with +2400 MPN/100ml and coliform was the same condition for both
rainy and cold season. Table 1.12.
55
1.5.4. Sample 4
This sample was collected near Myaynigone Village. The water source is from
Thandaung Chaung, on western part of the lake, and enters to the lake as 5 tributaries
and delta formation.
In this sample, temperature was not different for the three seasons. The
temperature is the highest in the rainy season with 28.2C for layer a, 28.0C for layer
b and 28.0C for layer c because of it was influenced by weather condition the
collection time. pH value was the same for the other samples, the lowest in rainy
season with 7.65 for layer a, 8.05 for layer b and 8.14 for layer c.
Conductivity, Alkalinity and TDS are not much varied with seasons, the value
were within 220 g/l to 260 g/l. Turbidity varied with seasonal in which the maximum
rate was found in summer because it was raining in this time with the value of 136
NTU for layer a, 430 NTU for layer b and 240 NTU for layer c.
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) was lowest in the cold season with 4.9 mg/l for layer
a, 5.3 mg/l for layer b and 5.0 mg/l for layer c, compare to the rainy season of 8.3
mg/l for layer a, 8.0 mg/l for layer b and 8.0 mg/l for layer c.
COD was the highest in rainy season with 24 mg O2/ l for layer a, 48 mg O2/ l
for layer b and 32 mg O2/ l for layer c. The lowest COD was in the cold season with
the value of 25 mg O2/ l for layer a, 0 mg O2/ l for layer b and 0 mg O2/ l for layer c.
Nitrate and phosphate was found in all seasons and it was not significantly
varied. The value of nitrate was between 2.00 ppm to 2. 52 ppm and the value of
phosphate were between 0.17 ppm to 0.39 ppm. Arsenic was not found in this sample.
Total Coliform was varied with season, in which the lowest in rainy season
with only 35 MPN/100ml. Table 1.13.
1.5.5. Sample 5
Sample 5 was collected from Tale-U Village. Actually this sample was taken at
the mouth of Thale-U Stream, one of the inflowing water from the eastern part of the
lake. In this sample, temperature of all seasons was varied according to weather
condition. The highest temperature was found in rainy season and the lowest was
found in winter.
Turbidity was not significantly changed with seasons in this sample site, with
the values 10 and 30 NTU. Similarly, TSD was not also significantly varied around
200 g/l and conductivity was between 20 ms/m and 40 ms/m.
56
Nutrients of nitrate and phosphate were found in every season but they are not
much varied: nitrate value was between 2ppm to 3 ppm and phosphate value was
between 0.03 ppm to 0.17 ppm.
Dissolved Oxygen was found within 3 mg/l to 7. 2 m g/l: the highest in
summer and the lowest in the cold season. COD was the highest in summer with the
value of 16 mg O2/ l for layer a, 65 mg O2/ l for layer b and the lowest in the cold
season with 2 mg O2/ l for layer a, 0 mg O2/ l for layer b, 0 mg O2/ l for layer c.
Arsenic was found in rainy season with the value of 7.0 ppm in this sample
and it is the only one sample that arsenic was found.
Similar to other samples, Total Coliform was the highest in summer with
+1200 MPN/100ml and the lowest in rainy season with 0 MPN/100ml. Table 1.14
1.5.6. Sample 6
This sample collected at Kela Village was intended for representing the water
is near intensive floating garden. In this sample, temperature varied seasonally. The
maximum temperature was in rainy season with the value of 26.3C for layer a, 25C
for layer b and 27C for layer c. The minimum temperature was in winter with the
value of 29.5C for layer a, 20.1C for layer b and 20.1C for layer c.
pH value was the lowest in the rainy season with 7.50 for layer a, 7.30 for
layer b, 7.80 for layer c and the lowest in summer and the cold season.
TDS and conductivity of this sample were not much different. Alkalinity was
nearly the same; the value was within 220ppm to225 ppm.
For nutrients such as nitrate and phosphate; nitrate was not found in this
sample but phosphate was found and the highest value was found in rainy and the
cold season of 0.24 ppm.
Dissolved oxygen (DO) was the lowest in rainy season with 2.1 mg/l for layer
a, 3.2 mg/l for layer b, 3.8 mg/l for layer c and the highest in the cold season and
summer. COD was the highest in rainy season with 27 mg O2/ l for layer a, 70 mg
O2/ l for layer b and 20 mg O2/ l for layer c and the lowest COD can be found in the
cold season with the value of 6 mg O2/ l for layer a, 0 mg O2/ l for layer b, and 6 mg
O2/ l for layer c.
The maximum Total Coliform can be found in summer with the value of
+1609 MPN/100ml and there was no coliform in the rainy season in this sample site.
Table 1.15.
57
1.5.7. Sample 7
Out flowing water of Inle Lake was represented by in sample 7. This sample
was collected between Taungto Village and Inya Village. In this sample, temperature
varied with seasonally. The highest temperature was observed in the rainy season with
the value of 26.7C for layer a, 26.5C for layer b, 26.5C for layer c and the lowest
temperature was observed in the cold season with the value of 19.5C for layer a,
20.1C for layer b and 20.1C for layer c.
Turbidity and TDS were not varied significantly: the value of turbidity was
within 9 NTU to 27 NTU and the value of TDS was within 200 g/l to 260 g/l for all
three seasons.
Conductivity and turbidity was nearly the same value for all seasons. Nitrate
and phosphate of nutrients were found in this sample and nitrate value was within 2
ppm to 8 ppm; phosphate value was around 20 ppm. Arsenic was not found in this
sample.
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) was found to be highest in summer with the value of
5.7mg/l for layer a, 6.5 mg/l for layer b, 7.1 mg/l for layer c and the lowest in both
rainy and the cold season with the value of within 2mg/l to 4 mg/ l.
The maximum COD was found in summer with the value of 26 mg O2 /l for
layer a, 51 mg O2 /l for layer b, 38 mg O2 /l for layer c and the minimum value was
found in the cold season with the value of 8 mg O2 /l for layer a, 0 mg O2 /l for layer b
and 0 mg O2 /l for layer c.
Total Coliform was found with the highest value of +2400 MPN/ 100l in
summer but very few in the cold and rainy season with the value of 20 MPN/100l and
35 MPN /100 l. Table 1.16.
1.5.8. Sample 8
Sample 8 was collected at the Rest House, center location of the open space.
In this sample, the range between the highest temperature and the lowest temperature
was about 7C. The highest was found in rainy season and the lowest was found in the
cold season.
The turbidity value varied with season. The maximum value was found in the
cold season with 60 NTU for layer a, 38 NTU for layer b and 48 NTU for layer c, the
minimum value was found in summer with 6 NTU for layer a, 7 NTU for layer b and
8 NTU layer c.
58
TDS was not much varied seasonally within the value range of 180 g/l to 290
g/l. In all three seasons, pH value was within 8 to 9. Conductivity and alkalinity were
not much varied with the seasons. Similarly, Dissolved Oxygen (DO) was not
significantly varied but the highest DO was in rainy season with 8.9 mg/l for layer a,
9.0 mg/l for layer b and 8.7 mg/l layer c.
Nitrate was not found in summer and rainy season but in the cold season
nitrate value was 0.9 ppm. Phosphate was found in every season with the value of
0.17 ppm for layer a, 0.21 ppm for layer b and 0.18 ppm for layer c.
Arsenic was not found in all three seasons. Total Coliform was not found in
rainy and the cold season in this sample. Table 1.17
1.5.9. Sample 9
Nyaung Shwe jetty represented the starting point of the lake and it is one of
the most crowded places for transportation. In this sample, the temperature was
usually the highest in rainy season with the value of 29.1C for layer a, 29.2C for
layer b and 28.8C for layer c.
The maximum turbidity was found in the cold season with the value of 240
NTU for layer a, 220 NTU for layer b and 210 NYU for layer c because of
transportation rate is the highest in the cold season and the lowest in summer. TDS
was nearly the same value within 210 g/l to 430 g/l.
pH value was the lowest in the rainy season with the value of 7.77 for layer a,
7.90 for layer b and 8.01 for layer c and the highest in the cold season and summer
with the value of over 8.
Conductivity was the highest in the cold season with 54.9 m s/m for layer a,
52.4 m s/m for layer b and 2.4 m s/m for layer c and the lowest was in rainy season
with 34.8 m s/m for layer a, 33.3 m s/m for layer b and 32.8 m s/m for layer c.
Alkalinity varied not significantly within 200 ppm for all three seasons.
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) was not varied within the three seasons with the value
between 6.2 mg/l to 6.9 mg/l.
Nitrate was not found in summer but it was found in rainy season and the cold
season with the value of 1.0 ppm. Phosphate was found in every season with 0.24
ppm in summer, 0.55ppm in rainy and 0.40 ppm in the cold season. Arsenic was not
found in all seasons.
59
The highest COD was found in summer with the value of 56 mg O2 /l for layer
a, 60 mg O2 /l for layer b and the lowest is found in the cold season with 22 mg O2 /l
for layer a, 0 mg O2 /l for layer b, and layer 23 mg O2 /l for layer c.
Total Coliform was the highest in summer with the value of +609 MPN/100l
and in the cold and rainy season it decrease to 25 MPN/100l and 95 MPN/100l. Table
1.18
1.5.10. Summary of Seasonal Variation of Water Quality Parameters

Seasonal variation of Inle Lake was significant for some parameters and some
sample sites. Naturally, temperature was varied with season due to changes of weather
condition.
pH value is varied seasonally. In the cold season and summer, pH value was 8
and 9 but in the rainy season pH value decreased to 7 because of precipitation and
run-off water.
Conductivity was not significantly varied. Turbidity was changed seasonally
and the highest value was founded in the rainy season.
In summer, Dissolved Oxygen (DO) was low and in rainy season DO
increased. DO was also varied with layers of water.
Nutrients of phosphate and nitrogen were not significantly varied but in
sample site 4, phosphate was slightly varied with others.
COD was not much varied in seasons. Generally, COD was high in summer
and rainy but decrease in the cold season. It is very obvious that the maximum COD
was found in the middle layer (1 meter depth) in summer and in the rainy seasons in
nearly all the sample sites, but there is very low value in middle layer in the cold
season.
The most significant seasonal variation was found for Total Coliform and it
was the highest in summer but it was found very low in the cold and rainy season.
According to the table 1.8 and 1.9, water quality varied daily from time to
time. For example Dissolved Oxygen (DO) was lowest in the morning and it
gradually increased into the evening. The highest value of DO was in the evening and
it gradually decrease again to the midnight and until to morning.
60
Table 1.10 Seasonal Variation of Water Quality in Inle Lake for Sample 1 (or)
Thandaung Stream
Parameters
Depth
(ft)
temperature
(C)
Turbidity
(NTU)
TDS
(g/l)
Conductivity
(m s/m)
Alkalinity
(ppm)
pH
DO
(m g/l)
COD
(Mg O2/l)
Layer
Summer
Rainy
Winter
4.1
4.10
4.8
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
23.7
23.5
23.0
180
190
200
350
350
360
53.8
53.0
53.0
230
27.8
28.0
27.6
540
560
590
150
150
150
23.5
23.8
23.7
200
21.1
20.9
20.9
100
68
73
360
390
410
56.7
58.4
63.0
215
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
b
8.05
8.05
8.04
7.0
6.7
6.6
4
54
32
0
7.95
7.92
7.92
7.1
7.0
7.0
4
52
30
0
1.24
Nitrate
(ppm)
Phosphate
b
(ppm)
Arsenic
b
(ppm)
Total Coliform
b
(MPN/100l)
Remark: not algae weed bed
WHO Standard
Drinking
Potable
25
1.000 mg/l
500
0.15-15.0
400
250
8.29
8.0
8.02
6.5
6.9
7.0
26
22
0
0
7.0-8.5
6.5-9.2
10.0
10
50
0.44
0.23
0.05
+2400
80
550
61
Ywama Village
Parameters
Depth
(ft)
temperature
(C)
Turbidity
(NTU)
TDS
(g/l)
Conductivity
(m s/m)
Alkalinity
(ppm)
pH
DO
(m g/l)
COD
(Mg O2/l)
Layer
Summer
Rainy
Winter
1.14
4.9
4.1
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
22.4
22.1
23.6
23.7
150
160
150
210
260
280
210
190
40.5
32.0
31.7
29.8
200
210
20.8
20.5
20.4
130
130
160
300
270
270
44.5
41.8
41.3
215
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
b
8.51
8.50
7.90
8.10
7.5
7.3
6.0
6.8
16
76
4
59
Nitrate
(ppm)
Phosphate
b
(ppm)
Arsenic
b
(ppm)
Total Coliform
b
(MPN/100l)
Remark: not algae bed
WHO Standard
Drinking Potable
25
1.000
mg/l
500
0.15-15.0
400
250
7.0-8.5
6.5-9.2
10.0
8.76
8.81
8.85
8.0
8.0
7.8
24
0
0
0
10
50
0.36
0.29
0.20
0.05
+2400
35
350
62
Indein Stream
Parameters
Depth
(ft)
temperature
(C)
Turbidity
(NTU)
TDS
(g/l)
Conductivity
(m s/m)
Alkalinity
(ppm)
pH
DO
(m g/l)
COD
(Mg O2/l)
Layer
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
b
Nitrate
(ppm)
Phosphate
b
(ppm)
Arsenic
b
(ppm)
Total Coliform
b
(MPN/100l)
Summer
Rainy
Winter
3.9
4.9
22.5
22.6
23.3
23.1
23.1
540
450
430
200
190
180
31.6
28.9
27.1
190
20.0
19.6
19.4
250
220
190
300
280
280
45.1
43.6
42.7
200
7.10
7.40
8.10
8.2
8.1
8.0
WHO Standard
Drinking
Potable
25
1.000
mg/l
500
0.15-15.0
400
250
8.25
8.58
8.66
8.4
8.0
7.8
7.0-8.5
6.5-9.2
30
0
0
2.0
10.0
3.01
9
39
33
2.98
10
50
0.24
0.24
0.20
0.05
+2400
250
250
37
13
260
260
40.4
40.7
184
8.63
8.63
8.2
7.8
8
68
63
Myaynigon Village
Parameters
Depth
(ft)
temperature
(C)
Turbidity
(NTU)
TDS
(g/l)
Conductivity
(m s/m)
Alkalinity
(ppm)
pH
DO
(m g/l)
COD
(Mg O2/l)
Layer
Summer
Rainy
Winter
6.8
6.6
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
21.9
21.4
21.5
130
430
680
220
230
240
33.7
35.3
36.2
160
28.2
28.0
28.0
25
53
54
260
240
240
41.0
36.7
36.5
145
19.5
20.1
20.1
23
37
25
230
260
220
35.5
40.5
33.5
150
a
b
c
a
b
c
8.60
8.50
8.51
7.9
7.5
7.3
7.65
8.05
8.14
8.3
8.0
8.0
a
b
c
b
5
54
35
2.52
Nitrate
(ppm)
Phosphate
b
(ppm)
Arsenic
b
(ppm)
Total Coliform
b
(MPN/100l)
WHO Standard
Drinking
Potable
25
1.000
mg/l
500
0.15-15.0
400
250
7.93
8.00
8.90
4.9
5.3
5.0
7.0-8.5
6.5-9.2
24
48
32
2.00
25
5
0
2.00
10.0
10
50
0.17
0.39
0.29
0.05
918
35
350
64
Table 1.14 Seasonal Variation of Water Quality in Inle Lake for Sample 5 (or) at
the Mouth of Tale-U Stream
Parameters
Depth
(ft)
temperature
(C)
Turbidity
(NTU)
TDS
(g/l)
Conductivity
(m s/m)
Alkalinity
(ppm)
pH
DO
(m g/l)
COD
(Mg O2/l)
Layer
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
b
Nitrate
(ppm)
Phosphate
b
(ppm)
Arsenic
b
(ppm)
Total Coliform
b
(MPN/100l)
Remark: algae bed
Summer
Rainy
Winter
4.0
4.6
9.8
22.2
21.1
26.0
25.7
25.1
19
22
21
270
240
230
41.5
37.0
36.2
115
20.1
20.6
20.0
24
23
26
210
200
210
32.4
31.4
33.0
110
2.87
7.10
6.90
7.20
5.7
4.3
3.1
4
60
26
3.05
0.03
WHO Standard
Drinking
Potable
25
1.000
mg/l
500
0.15-15.0
400
250
8.25
8.23
8.01
5.2
5.9
4.1
2
0
0
3.0
7.0-8.5
6.5-9.2
10.0
10
50
0.17
0.10
7.0
0.05
+1200
40
36
11
180
180
37.7
28.3
120
8.37
8.09
7.2
7.2
16
65
65
Kela Village
Parameters
Depth
(ft)
temperature
(C)
Turbidity
(NTU)
TDS
(g/l)
Conductivity
(m s/m)
Alkalinity
(ppm)
pH
DO
(m g/l)
COD
(Mg O2/l)
Layer
Summer
Rainy
Winter
3.2
8.4
6.6
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
22.1
22.3
26.3
25.7
27.4
40
41
62
230
220
330
35.1
34.3
52.1
225
19.5
20.1
20.1
31
33
38
310
260
260
47.2
39.7
39.3
220
a
b
c
a
b
c
8.02
8.02
7.50
7.30
7.80
2.1
3.2
3.8
8.02
8.02
8.10
4.0
4.4
4.5
27
70
20
0
6
0
6
0
0.19
0.24
0
+1609
a
b
c
b
Nitrate
(ppm)
Phosphate
b
(ppm)
Arsenic
b
(ppm)
Total Coliform
b
(MPN/100l)
Remark: algae bed
14
15
260
270
40.8
32.0
240
4.1
5.2
22
79
WHO Standard
Drinking
Potable
25
1.000
mg/l
500
0.15-15.0
400
250
7.0-8.5
6.5-9.2
10.0
10
50
0.24
0.05
20
66
Table.1.16 Seasonal Variation of Water Quality in Inle Lake for S.S.7 (or)
Between Inya and Taoungto Village
Parameters
Depth
(ft)
temperature
(C)
Turbidity
(NTU)
TDS
(g/l)
Conductivity
(m s/m)
Alkalinity
(ppm)
pH
DO
(m g/l)
COD
(Mg O2/l)
Layer
Summer
Rainy
Winter
10
14.1
12
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
21.3
21.2
21.3
9
10
13
230
200
200
35.0
31.0
31.1
148
26.7
26.5
26.5
18
19
16
210
230
200
32.5
35.1
30.9
145
19.5
20.1
20.1
23
37
25
230
260
220
35.5
40.5
33.5
150
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
b
7.58
8.39
8.42
5.7
6.5
7.1
26
51
38
2.87
7.50
7.30
7.80
2.6
4.1
4.6
30
45
35
3.0
0.26
Nitrate
(ppm)
Phosphate
b
(ppm)
Arsenic
b
(ppm)
Total Coliform
b
(MPN/100l)
Remark: dense algae bed
WHO Standard
Drinking
Potable
25
1.000
mg/l
500
0.15-15.0
400
250
7.93
8.00
8.90
2.6
3.9
4.2
8
0
0
3.0
7.0-8.5
6.5-9.2
10.0
10
50
0.24
0.20
0.05
+2400
35
20
67
Rest House
Parameters
Depth
(ft)
temperature
(C)
Turbidity
(NTU)
TDS
(g/l)
Conductivity
(m s/m)
Alkalinity
(ppm)
pH
DO
(m g/l)
COD
(Mg O2/l)
Layer
Summer
Rainy
Winter
11.2
11.4
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
23.1
23.3
22.8
6
7
8
220
290
200
31.9
29.9
30.6
128
27.5
26.4
25.8
26
30
34
180
170
170
27.2
26.8
26.5
120
20.2
20.4
20.9
60
38
40
260
230
230
40.3
35.5
35.0
120
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
b
8.70
8.88
8.64
7.6
7.9
7.3
50
68
42
0
8.85
9.02
8.99
8.5
9.0
8.7
48
59
39
0
0.17
Nitrate
(ppm)
Phosphate
b
(ppm)
Arsenic
b
(ppm)
Total Coliform
b
(MPN/100l)
Remark: algae bed
WHO Standard
Drinking
Potable
25
1.000
mg/l
500
0.15-15.0
400
250
8.25
8.50
8.25
8.9
8.9
8.0
4
0
27
0.9
7.0-8.5
6.5-9.2
10.0
10
50
0.21
0.18
0.05
NA
68
Nyaung Shwe Jetty
Parameters
Depth
(ft)
temperature
(C)
Turbidity
(NTU)
TDS
(g/l)
Conductivity
(m s/m)
Alkalinity
(ppm)
pH
DO
(mg/l)
COD
(Mg O2/l)
Layer
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
a
b
c
a
b
c
a
b
c
b
Nitrate
(ppm)
Phosphate
b
(ppm)
Arsenic
b
(ppm)
Total Coliform
b
(MPN/100l)
Summer
Rainy
Winter
2.5
4.9
22.6
22.8
29.1
29.2
28.8
190
160
130
430
220
210
34.8
33.3
32.8
220
20.2
20.4
20.9
240
220
210
320
320
330
54.9
52.4
52.4
200
7.77
7.90
8.01
6.3
6.4
6.2
50
55
20
1.0
0.24
WHO Standard
Drinking
Potable
25
1.000
mg/l
500
0.15-15.0
400
250
8.20
8.30
8.50
6.9
6.7
6.3
22
0
23
1.0
7.0-8.5
6.5-9.2
10.0
10
50
0.55
0.40
0.05
+609
25
95
93
170
310
300
47.0
46.9
200
8.23
8.47
6.4
6.7
56
60
69
1.6. Statistical Analysis of Water Quality Variables

The process of data analysis and presentation, require a working knowledge of
all the preceding step of the water quality assessment as well as a good understanding
of statistic as it applies to the science of water qualities assessment (1996. UNESCO,
WHO, UNEP).
In this study, water quality variables of summer, rainy and the cold seasons
can be analyzed by descriptive statistical method with the standard deviation,
variance, mean and frequency distribution. See Figures 1.8, 1.9, 1.10 and 1.11.
As results of descriptive statistical analysis, some data such as temperature,
pH, alkalinity, nitrate and E.Coliform were not significantly different. Standard
deviations of these parameters were less than their mean values. But some of the
water quality variables such as turbidity, conductivity and nitrate variation are slightly
different. In this case, mean values were less than standard deviations. Therefore, it is
necessary to take more samples for accuracy.
As a result, temperature values were high in summer and rainy seasons but
low in the cold season. Similarly, mean values of turbidity, COD and phosphate were
high in summer and rainy seasons but low in the cold season. Some of the water
quality variables such as TDS, pH, DO, conductivity, alkalinity and Total Coliform
were high in summer and the cold season but low in rainy season. Nitrate was high in
the cold season but low in summer and rainy seasons. Arsenic was not significant
among the water samples results.
In the study of frequency distribution curve, some data such as temperature
and nitrate were normally distributed. But some data such as turbidity, TDS, DO,
COD, conductivity, phosphate and Total Coliform were not normally distributed. For
example, COD in winter was quite different from summer and rainy seasons.
However, this study did not focus on detailed statistical analysis on water quality
variables.
Beside, the cumulative frequency distribution of water quality can also be
study. In this study, it is only to demonstrate the relationship between water quality
variables by using raw data.
70
Table 1.19 Correlations between Water Quality Variable for Summer

Correlation
Surface
Layer
Middle
Layer
Lowest
layer
Temp and Turbid
0.43
-0.09
-0.34
Temp and TDS
0.60
0.59
Temp and pH
0.43
Temp and Cond
Surface
Layer
Middle
Layer
Lowest
layer
pH and Alkali
-0.26
-0.45
N/A
N/A
pH and Nitrate
-0.02
0.03
N/A
0.21
N/A
pH and Phosp
-0.28
-0.35
N/A
0.59
0.60
N/A
pH and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
Temp and DO
0.32
0.08
N/A
pH and Coli
-0.23
-0.12
-0.99
Temp and COD
0.07
0.17
N/A
Cond and DO
-0.14
-0.39
-0.99
Temp and Alkali
0.31
0.46
0.42
Cond and COD
-0.14
0.06
-0.78
Temp and Nitrate
-0.60
-0.69
-1.00
Cond and Alkali
0.74
-0.59
-0.57
Temp and Phosp
0.66
0.58
0.61
Cond and Nitrate
-0.45
0.30
0.64
Temp and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
Cond and Phosp
-0.45
0.76
0.99
Temp and Coli
0.23
0.15
0.40
Cond and Arsenic
0.77
N/A
N/A
Turbid and TDS
0.58
0.33
0.22
Cond and Coli
N/A
0.00
0.64
Turbid and pH
0.14
0.03
0.01
DO and COD
-0.23
-0.16
0.73
Turbid and Cond
0.59
0.35
N/A
DO and Alkali
-0.44
-0.61
N/A
Turbid and DO
0.35
0.17
0.19
DO and Nitrate
0.29
0.31
0.41
Turbid and COD
-0.41
-0.41
N/A
DO and Phosp
0.04
-0.13
N/A
Turbid and Alkali
0.45
0.17
N/A
DO and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
Turbid and Nitrate
-0.32
-0.04
N/A
DO and Coli
0.13
0.16
N/A
Turbid and Phosp
0.67
0.23
N/A
COD and Alkali
-0.20
0.27
N/A
Turbid and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
COD and Nitrate
-0.20
-0.39
-0.04
Turbid and Coli
0.11
-0.68
N/A
COD and Phosp
-0.35
-0.33
N/A
-0.25
-0.32
-0.93
N/A
N/A
N/A
0.89
0.85
N/A
COD and Coli
-0.16
0.10
N/A
-0.14
-0.31
-0.90
Alkali and Nitrate
-0.57
-0.57
-0.57
TDS and COD
0.00
0.01
-0.88
Alkali and Phosp
0.55
0.55
0.55
TDS and Alkali
0.81
0.89
0.99
Alkali and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
TDS and Nitrate
-0.58
-0.56
N/A
Alkali and Coli
-0.39
-0.11
-0.11
TDS and Phosp
0.80
0.76
N/A
Nitrate and Phosp
-0.39
-0.39
-0.39
TDS and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
Nitrate and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
TDS and Coli
0.08
0.00
N/A
Nitrate and Coli
0.10
0.10
0.10
pH and Cond
-0.27
-0.18
N/A
Phosp and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
pH and DO
0.75
0.73
0.98
Phosp and Coli
0.30
0.30
0.30
pH and COD
0.02
0.02
0.85
Arsenic and Coli
N/A
N/A
N/A
TDS and pH
TDS and Cond
TDS and DO
Source: Based on Water Quality Test Results
71
Correlation
COD and Arsenic
Table 1.20 Correlations between Water Quality Variables for Rainy Season
Correlation
Surface
Layer
Middle
Layer
Lowest
layer
Temp and Turbid
-0.24
-0.13
-0.17
Temp and TDS
0.43
0.12
Temp and pH
0.38
Temp and Cond
Surface
Layer
Middle
Layer
Lowest
layer
pH and Alkali
-0.18
-0.15
-0.13
0.32
pH and Nitrate
-0.73
-0.75
-0.49
0.24
-0.01
pH and Phosp
0.13
0.20
0.09
0.04
0.11
0.28
pH and Arsenic
-0.44
-0.58
-0.63
Temp and DO
0.05
0.04
-0.08
pH and Coli
-0.42
-0.26
0.08
Temp and COD
0.62
0.05
-0.45
Cond and DO
-0.17
-0.56
-0.61
Temp and Alkali
0.46
0.45
0.36
Cond and COD
-0.04
0.11
-0.65
Temp and Nitrate
-0.11
-0.10
-0.42
Cond and Alkali
-0.07
-0.01
0.28
Temp and Phosp
0.60
0.73
0.73
Cond and Nitrate
0.59
0.63
-0.07
Temp and Arsenic
-0.09
-0.16
-0.32
Cond and Phosp
-0.13
-0.15
-0.19
Temp and Coli
-0.53
-0.45
-0.62
Cond and Arsenic
0.53
0.43
0.14
Turbid and TDS
-0.26
-0.70
-0.54
Cond and Coli
-0.26
-0.37
-0.43
Turbid and pH
-0.16
-0.05
0.03
DO and COD
-0.03
-0.43
0.59
Turbid and Cond
-0.59
-0.73
-0.53
DO and Alkali
-0.15
-0.18
-0.05
0.38
0.38
0.38
DO and Nitrate
-0.09
-0.25
-0.32
Turbid and COD
-0.41
-0.43
0.38
DO and Phosp
0.23
0.25
0.30
Turbid and Alkali
0.33
0.23
0.47
DO and Arsenic
-0.06
-0.38
-0.59
Turbid and Nitrate
-0.18
-0.24
-0.27
DO and Coli
0.38
0.39
0.43
Turbid and Phosp
0.35
0.36
-0.10
COD and Alkali
0.33
-0.08
-0.66
-0.27
-0.28
-0.27
COD and Nitrate
-0.17
-0.56
0.17
0.78
0.72
0.69
COD and Phosp
0.27
-0.15
-0.38
-0.21
-0.53
-0.42
COD and Arsenic
-0.40
0.24
-0.20
0.54
1.00
0.99
COD an Coli
-0.36
-0.73
0.25
-0.07
-0.54
-0.58
Alkali and Nitrate
0.01
0.01
0.01
TDS and COD
0.46
0.05
-0.70
Alkali and Phosp
0.38
0.38
0.38
TDS and Alkali
0.26
0.03
0.32
-0.21
-0.21
-0.21
TDS and Nitrate
0.19
0.66
-0.05
Alkali and Coli
0.22
0.22
0.22
TDS and Phosp
0.53
-0.11
-0.10
Nitrate and Phosp
-0.28
-0.28
-0.28
TDS and Arsenic
0.15
0.40
0.10
Nitrate and Arsenic
0.50
0.50
0.50
TDS and Coli
-0.25
-0.32
-0.42
Nitrate and Coli
0.23
0.23
0.23
pH and Cond
-0.57
-0.51
-0.43
Phosp and Arsenic
-0.41
-0.41
-0.41
0.28
0.63
0.85
Phosp and Coli
-0.01
-0.01
-0.01
0.53
0.25
pH and COD
0.60
Arsenic and Coli
-0.24
-0.24
-0.24
Turbid and DO
Turbid and Arsenic

Turbid and Coli
TDS and pH
TDS and Cond
TDS and DO
pH and DO
72
Correlation
Alkali and Arsenic
Table 1.21 Correlations between Water Quality Variables for Cold Season
Correlation
Surface
Layer
Middle
Layer
Lowest
layer
Temp and Turbid
-0.09
-0.46
-0.16
Temp and TDS
0.33
-0.15
Temp and pH
0.32
Temp and Cond

Temp and DO
Surface
Layer
Middle
Layer
Lowest
layer
pH and Alkali
0.30
0.15
0.10
0.33
pH and Nitrate
-0.47
-0.21
0.28
0.06
-0.47
pH and Phosp
-0.22
-0.19
0.27
0.28
-0.19
0.33
pH and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
0.51
0.34
0.18
pH and Coli
0.26
-0.10
-0.01
Temp and COD
-0.34
0.07
0.70
Cond and DO
0.35
0.06
0.41
Temp and Alkali
-0.02
-0.29
0.07
Cond and COD
0.50
0.70
0.07
Temp and Nitrate
-0.63
-0.44
-0.66
Cond and Alkali
0.76
0.62
0.60
Temp and Phosp
-0.18
-0.19
0.30
Cond and Nitrate
-0.74
-0.48
-0.58
N/A
N/A
N/A
Cond and Phosp
0.58
0.62
0.44
Temp and Coli
-0.05
-0.22
-0.02
Cond and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
Turbid and TDS
0.57
0.39
0.46
Cond and Coli
0.51
0.61
0.60
Turbid and pH
0.39
0.54
0.24
DO and COD
0.39
0.06
0.33
Turbid and Cond
0.61
0.48
0.48
DO and Alkali
0.13
0.02
0.29
Turbid and DO
0.63
0.41
0.59
DO and Nitrate
-0.40
-0.35
-0.50
Turbid and COD
0.66
-0.16
0.18
DO and Phosp
0.00
-0.16
0.06
Turbid and Alkali
0.53
0.55
0.59
DO and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
Turbid and Nitrate
-0.20
-0.15
-0.26
DO and Coli
0.12
0.11
0.27
Turbid and Phosp
0.45
0.49
0.44
COD and Alkali
0.59
0.19
-0.16
Turbid and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
COD and Nitrate
-0.26
-0.36
-0.25
Turbid and Coli
0.12
0.09
0.13
COD and Phosp
0.47
0.08
0.39
TDS and pH
0.36
-0.20
-0.32
COD and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
TDS and Cond
0.97
0.99
1.00
COD an Coli
0.70
0.74
-0.50
TDS and DO
0.38
0.08
0.43
Alkali and Nitrate
-0.68
-0.68
-0.68
TDS and COD
0.53
0.78
0.04
Alkali and Phosp
0.48
0.48
0.48
TDS and Alkali
0.83
0.55
0.62
Alkali and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
TDS and Nitrate
-0.81
-0.52
0.42
Alkali and Coli
0.61
0.61
0.61
TDS and Phosp
0.44
0.53
0.42
Nitrate and Phosp
-0.31
-0.31
-0.31
TDS and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
Nitrate and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
TDS and Coli
0.61
0.69
0.64
Nitrate and Coli
-0.57
-0.57
-0.57
pH and Cond
0.28
-0.18
-0.32
Phosp and Arsenic
N/A
N/A
N/A
pH and DO
0.69
0.80
0.08
Phosp and Coli
0.18
0.18
0.18
pH and COD
0.28
-0.42
-0.22
Arsenic and Coli
N/A
N/A
N/A
Temp and Arsenic
73
Correlation
1.7. Relationship between Water Quality Parameters

According to the correlation method, there are some relationships between
water quality parameters in the Inle Lake. It is shown in Tables 1.19, 1.20, and 1.21.
1.7.1. Temperature
Temperature is closely related to Total Coliform, phosphate and alkalinity.
Temperature is related to Total Coliform in three layers in summer and rainy seasons.
If temperature is decreased coliform will decrease. Temperature is also related to
phosphate in all layers in summer and rainy seasons. If temperature is high, phosphate
will be high. Temperature is slightly related to COD in summer and rainy seasons in
the surface and the deepest layer.
1.7.2. Turbidity
There are relationships between turbidity and TDS, conductivity, DO,
phosphate and Total Coliform. Turbidity is related to TDS surface layer in summer
and winter and middle and deepest layer in rainy and the cold season. Turbidity is also
related to conductivity in all layers and for all seasons. And there is a relationship
between turbidity and DO in all layer in winter but there is no relationship between
turbidity and DO in summer and rainy season, except for the deepest layer of rainy
season.
1.7.3. Total Dissolved Solid (TDS)

It is significant that there is strongly relationship between TDS and COD,
alkalinity, nitrate and phosphate. If the TDS is increased alkalinity, COD, phosphate
and nitrate will increase. The relations of TDS and pH, DO, COD, Alkalinity were
found in the deepest layer. The relationship of TDS and nitrate and phosphate is in the
surface and middle layer. The most significant relationship is TDS and alkalinity in
three layers and for all three seasons.
1.7.4. Conductivity
Conductivity is related to phosphate in all seasons and all layers mostly in the
surface layer and middle layer. Beside, conductivity is related to COD in the lowest
layer in summer and rainy seasons, and surface layer and middle layer in the cold
season. Conductivity is strongly related to phosphate in all layers in summer and
74
surface and middle layers in rainy and cold season. There is a slight relationship to
COD with DO and Total Coliforms.
1.7.5. Alkalinity
Alkalinity is strongly related to TDS in all layers in winter and summer but
there is no relationship between alkalinity and TDS in rainy season. Similarly
alkalinity is related to nitrate, phosphate and conductivity in all layers in summer and
the cold season. If alkalinity increase, nitrate decrease. Besides, alkalinity is related to
phosphate in summer. Alkalinity is also related to coliform in all layers in cold season
and related to turbidity mostly in winter. The other relationship is between alkalinity
and COD in the deepest layer in rainy season and in surface layer in the cold season.
COD and temperature is related in surface layer and lowest layer in rainy season and
lowest layer in the cold season.
1.7.6. pH
pH is related to DO, nitrate, phosphate conductivity and Total Coliform. pH is
related to DO in all layers in every season. The relationship between pH and Nitrate is
in every layer in rainy season but there is no relationship in other season. pH and
alkalinity is also related to each other in summer in middle layer. If the pH is
increased, alkalinity will be decreased. pH and Total Coliform is related in every layer
in rainy season.
1.7.7. Nitrate
Nitrate is related to alkalinity in three layers in summer and the cold season. If
alkalinity is high nitrate will be low. Nitrate and TDS is also related in every season
but three layers in summer and the cold season. The relationship is found between
nitrate and Total Coliform in three layers in the cold season but it is found that there is
no relationship between nitrate and Total Coliform in other seasons. Nitrate and COD
is related only in the rainy season in the middle layer. In summer and in the cold
season, nitrate is related to temperature.
1.7.8. Phosphate
It is found that there is a relationship between phosphate and turbidity, TDS,
conductivity and alkalinity. Phosphate is related to TDS and turbidity with all layers
75
in the cold season and surface layer and middle layer in summer and rainy seasons.
Similarly, it is related to conductivity in all layers in summer and the cold season.
Phosphate is also related to alkalinity and COD but not all layers and not every
season. It is significant that phosphate is slightly related to other parameters in the
rainy season except temperature.
1.7.9. Arsenic
It is very significant that there is no relationship between arsenic and other
parameters in the cold season. But in rainy season, arsenic is slightly related to pH,
conductivity, phosphate and COD. In summer arsenic is related to only conductivity
in the surface layer.
1.7.10. Dissolved Oxygen

DO is related to COD in layer c in rainy season and the cold season. Similarly,
DO is related to TDS in layer c in rainy and the cold season. The other relationships
between DO and nitrate, alkalinity is in c layer but only for one season.
1.7.11. Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)

COD is related to TDS, pH, COD and DO in lowest layer in summer. COD is
related to TDS in all seasons. COD is related to pH, conductivity, DO and alkalinity
in lowest layer in rainy season; and nitrate and Total Coliform in the middle layer. In
the cold season, COD is related to turbidity, TDS, DO, alkalinity, phosphate and
arsenic in only one layer.
1.7.12. Total Coliform

Total Coliform is related to turbidity in all layers in rainy season but not
related in winter and only middle layer in summer. The most significant relationship
of Total Coliform is COD in all three layers in rainy and the cold season and with
alkalinity in summer and cold season in all layers. In the cold season, Total Coliform
is related to nitrate and phosphate in all layers. Besides, there is also a relationship
between Total Coliform and pH in summer and in the cold season in the lowest layer;
with conductivity in the lowest layer in the cold season.
76
Summer
1 Temperature
Rainy Season
SD - .77
2 - .2928
X 22.29
Frequency Curve
Cold Season
Temperature
Temperature
SD 1.88
2 3.54
X 26.42
Frequency Curve
SD - .808
2 - .653
X 20.55
Frequency Curve
TEMP
TEMP
TEMP
6
10
6
3
3
4
Mean = 22.30
21.00
21.50
21.25
22.00
21.75
22.50
22.25
23.00
22.75
Std. D ev = 1.88
Me an = 26.42
N = 26.00
0
23.00
N = 22.00
24.00
23.50
23.50
23.25
Fre quency
Frequency
Std. Dev = .77
Fr equency
23.75
25.00
24.50
26.00
25.50
27.00
26.50
28.00
27.50
Std. De v = .81
Mean = 20.56
N = 27.00
29.00
19.50
20.50
28.50
20.00
TEMP
21.50
21.00
22.50
22.00
23.00
TEMP
TEMP
2 Turbidity
SD 163.8
2 - 36850
X 116
Frequency Curve
Turbidity
Turbidity
SD 201.31
2 - 40523.98
X 168.84
Frequency Curve
SD 79.78
2 - 6365
X 92
Frequency Curve
TURBIT
TURBIT
TURBIT
12
10
14
10
12
10
6
8
4
6
2
Std. Dev = 201.31

Mean = 168.8
N = 26.00
Mean = 116.5
0.0
N = 22.00
0
0.0
Freq uency
Frequency
Std. Dev = 163.86
Fre quency
Std. Dev = 79.79
Mean = 92.0
N = 27.00
0
25.0
100.0
200.0
300.0
400.0
500.0
600.0
50.0
150.0
250.0
350.0
450.0
550.0
75.0
50.0
125.0
100.0
175.0
150.0
225.0
200.0
250.0
100.0 200.0 300.0 400.0 500.0 600.0 700.0
T URBIT
T URBIT
TURBIT
3 TDS
SD 55.43
2 - 3072.73
X 251.8
Frequency Curve
TDS
TDS
SD 59.19
2 -3504
X - 220
Frequency Curve
SD 54.66
2 2987.5
X 274.8
Frequency Curve
TDS
TDS
6
TDS
12
10
4
4
Std. Dev = 55.43

Mean = 251.8
N = 22.00
0
175.0 200.0 225.0 250.0 275.0 300.0 325.0 350.0
Std. Dev = 59.19
Mean = 220.0
N = 26.00
0
150.0
200.0
250.0
300.0
350.0
400.0
450.0
Fre quency
Frequency
Freq uency
Std. Dev = 54.66
Mean = 274.8
N = 27.00
0
200.0 225.0 250.0 275.0 300.0 325.0 350.0 375.0 400.0
T DS
TDS
TDS
Figure1.8 (a) Descriptive Statistics of Water Quality Variables

77
Summer
Rainy Season
4 pH
Cold Season
pH
SD - .3225
2 - .104
X 8.32
Frequency Curve
pH
SD .31
2 - 9.49
X 8.36
Frequency Curve
SD - .54
2 - .29
X 7.84
Frequency Curve
PH
PH
PH
10
10
8
4
6
3
Mean = 8.36
N = 22.00
0
7.63
7.88
7.75
8.13
8.00
8.38
8.25
8.63
8.50
8.88
Freq uency
Std. Dev = .31
Fre quency
Frequency
Std. D ev = .53
Mean = 7.84
N = 26.00
8.75
7.00
7.25
7.50
7.75
8.00
8.25
8.50
8.75
Mean = 8.32
5 DO
9.00
PH
DO
SD 1.79
2 - 3.163
X 6.21
Frequency Curve
DO
SD .96
2 - .91
X 6.94
Frequency Curve
SD 2.08
2 - 4.345
X 6.19
Frequency Curve
DO
DO
DO
7
N = 27.00
7.88 8.00 8.13 8.25 8.38 8.50 8.63 8.75 8.88
PH
PH
Std. D ev = .32
Mean = 6.94
N = 22.00
0
4.00
4.50
5.00
5.50
6.00
6.50
7.00
7.50
Frequency
Std. Dev = .95
Freq uency
Frequency
Std. Dev = 2.08
M ean = 6.2
N = 26.00
8.00
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
2
Std. Dev = 1.78
Me an = 6.2
N = 27.00
0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
DO
6 COD
COD
COD
SD 18.81
2 - 353.92
X 35.38
Frequency Curve
SD 11.13
2 - 124.0
X 8.52
Frequency Curve
COD
COD
9.0
COD
8.0
DO
DO
SD 23.4
2 - 547.66
X 42.1
Frequency Curve
7.0
9.0
16
14
12
10
4
8
3
6
Std. Dev = 23.40

Mean = 42.0
N = 22.00
0
0.0
10.0
20.0
30.0
40.0
50.0
60.0
70.0
Std. Dev = 18.81
Mean = 35.4
N = 26.00
0
0.0
10.0
20.0
30.0
40.0
50.0
60.0
70.0
Freq uency
Freq uency
Frequ ency
4
Std. Dev = 11.14
2
M ean = 8.5
N = 27.00
0
0.0
80.0
COD
COD
COD
Figure1.8 (b) Descriptive Statistics of Water Quality Variables

78
5.0
10.0
15.0
20.0
25.0
30.0
Summer
7 Conductivity
SD 8.71
2 _ 75.85
X 42.57
Frequency Curve
Rainy Season
Conductivity
Cold Season
Conductivity
SD 6.36
2 - 40.43
X 32.70
Frequency Curve
SD 8.71
2 - 75.86
X 42.57
Frequency Curve
CONDUCT
CONDUCT
CONDUCT
6
Mean = 42.6
N = 27.00
0
32.5
37.5
35.0
42.5
40.0
47.5
45.0
52.5
50.0
57.5
55.0
Freq uency
Freq uency
Frequency
Std. Dev = 8.71
Std. Dev = 6.36
Mea n = 32.7
22.5
27.5
25.0
60.0
Mean = 42.6
N = 27.00
N = 26.00
62.5
Std. Dev = 8.71
32.5
30.0
37.5
35.0
42.5
40.0
47.5
45.0
32.5
37.5
35.0
52.5
42.5
40.0
47.5
45.0
52.5
50.0
57.5
55.0
62.5
60.0
50.0
CON DUCT
CON DUCT
CONDUCT
8 Alkalinity
SD 42.77
2 1829.1
X 178.9
Frequency Curve
Alkalinity
Alkalinity
SD 59.35
2 - 3522.5
X 157.69
Frequency Curve
SD 41.82
2 - 1748.6
X 173.89
Frequency Curve
AL KALI
ALKALI
ALKALI
2.5
10
2.0
1.5
1.0
3.5
3.0
2.5
2.0
Std. Dev = 42.77

Mean = 178.9
N = 9.00
0.0
125.0
150.0
175.0
200.0
225.0
Freq uency
.5
Frequency
Frequency
1.5
Std. Dev = 59.35

Mean = 157.7
N = 26.00
0
0.0
250.0
50.0
100.0
150.0
200.0
1.0
Std. Dev = 41.82
.5
Mean = 173.9
N = 9.00
0.0
100.0
250.0
125.0
150.0
175.0
ALKALI
A LKALI
A LKALI
9 Nitrate
Nitrate
Nitrate
SD 1.34
2 1.78
X 1.26
Frequency Curve
SD 1.23
2 - 75.86
X - 1.32
Frequency Curve
SD 1.49
2 2.23
X 1.25
Frequency Curve
225.0
NITRATE
NITRATE
NITRATE
5
200.0
3.5
3.0
2.5
2.0
1.5
Std. Dev = 1.49

Mean = 1.3
N = 9.00
0
0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
1
Std. D ev = 1.34
M ean = 1.3
N = 9.00
0
0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
NITRATE
NITRATE
Figure1.8 (b) Descriptive Statistics of Water Quality Variables

79
Fr equency
Frequency
Frequency
1.0
Std. D ev = 1.23
.5
Mean = 1.3
N = 9.00
0.0
0.0
N ITRATE
1.0
2.0
3.0
Summer
10 Phosphate
SD - .36
2 - .1263
X - .32
Frequency Curve
Rainy Season
Phosphate
Cold Season
Phosphate
SD - .125
2 - 1.569
X - .308
Frequency Curve
SD 8.216
2 - 6.825
X - .227
Frequency Curve
PHOSPHATE
PHOSPHATE
PHOSPHATE
5
3.5
3.0
4
6
2.5
2.0
Std. Dev = .36

Mean = .32
N = 9.00
0
0.00
.25
.50
.75
1.00
Freq uency
1.0
Fre quency
Std. D ev = .13
.5
M ean = .31
N = 9.00
0.0
1.25
.19
PHOSPHATE
.25
.31
.38
.44
.50
M ean = .23
SD - 00
2 - .00
X - .00
Frequency Curve
Arsenic
SD - .777
2 - 5.44
X 2.33
Frequency Curve
SD - .00
2 - .0000
X - .0000
Frequency Curve
Mean = 0.0
N = 9.00
Frequency
10
Std. Dev = 0.00
Std. Dev = 2.33

Mean = .8
N = 9.00
0
0.0
0.0
12 Total Coliform
SD 569.98
2 - 32488
X - 2017
Frequency Curve
2.5
5.0
Std. De v = 0.00
M ean = 0.0
N = 9.00
7.5
0.0
AR SENIC
Total Coliform
Total Coliform
SD 78.81
2 - 6211
X - 51.1
Frequency Curve
SD 187.2
2 - 350.37
X 211.67
Frequency Curve
TOTAL COLIFORM
TOT AL COLIFORM
TOTAL COLIFORM
3.5
.38
A RSENIC
ARSENIC
.31
ARSENIC
ARSENIC
10
.25
Arsenic
ARSENIC
.19
PHOSP HATE
10
Frequency
N = 9.00
.13
PHOSP HAT E
11 Arsenic
Std. D ev = .08
.56
Fre quency
Frequency
1.5
3.0
2.5
4
2.0
1.5
Std. Dev = 569.98

Mean = 2017.0
N = 8.00
0
1000.0
1500.0
2000.0
2500.0
TOT AL COLIF ORM
Std. Dev = 78.81

Mea n = 51.1
N = 9.00
0
0.0
50.0
100.0
150.0
200.0
250.0
TOTAL COLIFORM
Figure1.8 (d) Descriptive Statistics of Water Quality Variables

80
Freq uency
Frequency
Frequency
1.0
Std. Dev = 187.18
.5
Mean = 211.7
N = 9.00
0.0
0.0
100.0
200.0
300.0
TOTAL COL IFORM
400.0
500.0
600.0
Turbidity
10
1
20.5
21
21.5
22
22.5
23
23.5
100
distribution (%)
Cumulative frequency
100
distribution (%)
Temperature
10
24
200
400
Temperature ( C)
1
200
300
100
distribution (%
)
10
100
10
400
7.5
8.5
TDS (mg/L)
10
1
6
100
distribution (%)
distribution (%)
Chemical Oxygen Demand
100
10
1
0
20
40
DO (mg/L)
1
45
50
55
60
10
1
100
65
150
1
1.5
2.5
100
distribution (%)
distribution (%)
10
10
1
0
3.5
0.2
0.4
1.2
1.4
1
1.5
2.5
100
distribution (%)
distribution (%)
10
0.8
Total Coliform
Arsenic
100
0.5
0.6
PO4 (ppm)
NO3 (ppm)
250
Phosphate
100
0.5
200
Alkalinity (ppm)
Nitrate
100
100
distribution (%
)
10
40
80
Alkalinity
distribution (%)
Conductivity
35
60
COD (mg O2/L)
100
30
pH
Dissolved Oxygen
800
pH
distribution (%)
Total Dissolved Solid

100
600
Turbidity (NTU)
10
1
0
500
1000
1500
2000
Total Coliform (MPN/100L)
Arsenic (ppm)
Figure 1.9 Cumulative Frequency Distribution of Water Quality Distribution in

Summer
81
2500
3000
Turbidity
100
10
20
22
24
26
28
30
Cum ulative frequency

distribution (%)
Cum ulative fr e que ncy

dis tr ibution (%)
Temperature
100
10
1
0
100
200
300
Temperature ( C)
10
1
200
300
400
500
Distribution (%)

dis tribution (%)
100
100
1
6

distribution (%)
Cum ulative fre que ncy

dis tribution (%)
1
4
100
10
1
0
10
10
20
30
10
1
100
150
200
250

distribution (%)
100
80
1
20
25
30
35
40
45
Conductivity (m s/m )
Nitrate
Phosphate
100
10
1
1.5
70
10
Alkalinity (ppm)
60
100
2.5
3.5
50
55
100
10
1
0
0.1
0.2
NO3 (ppm)
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
PO4 (ppm )
Total Coliform
Arsenic
dis tribution (%)
50
Conductivity

distribution (%)

dis tr ibution (%)

dis tr ibution (%)
Alkalinity
0.5
40
COD (m g O2/L)
DO (mg/L)
10
Chem ical Oxygen Dem and
10
50
pH
100
700
10
Dissolved Oxygen
600
100
TDS (mg/L)
500
pH
400
Turbidity (NTU)
100
100
10
10
1
1
0
0.5
1.5
2.5
50
100
150
200
Total Coliform (MPN/100L)
Arsenic (ppm)
Figure 1.10 Cumulative Frequency Distribution of Water Quality Variables in

Rainy Season
82
250
300
Turbidity
100
10
1
19
19.5
20
20.5
21
21.5
22
22.5
23

distribution (%)

dis tr ibution (%)
Temperature
100
10
1
0
50
100
Temperature (C)
100
10
250
300
350
400
450
7.8
8.2
8.4
10
distribution (%)

distribution (%)
10
1
0
10
15
1
50
55
60
65

distribution (ppm )

dis tr ibution (%)
10
45
1
100
125
150
2.5
3.5
distribution (ppm)
Cum ulative freque ncy

dis tribution (%)
10
1
0.1
0.15
0.2
0.25
10
1
1.5
2.5
distribution (%)
Cum ulative fre quency

distribution (%)
0.3
0.35
0.4
0.45
Total Coliform
Arsenic
250
PO4 (ppm )
100
0.5
225
100
No3 (ppm )
200
Phosphate
10
1.5
175
Alkalinity (ppm )
100
35
10
Nitrate
0.5
30
100
25
Alkalinity
100
40
20
COD (m g O2/L)
Conductivity
35
100
DO (m g/ l)
30
8.8
Chem ical Oxygen Dem and
10
8.6
1
pH
100
300
10
Disolved Oxygen
250
100
TDS (mg/L)
200
pH
distribution (%)

dis tribution (%)
1
200
150
Turbidity (NTU)
100
10
1
0
100
200
300
400
Total Coliform (MPN/100 L)
Arsenic (ppm )
Figure 1.11 Cumulative Frequency Distribution of Water Quality Variables in

Cold Season
83
500
600
1.8. Factors Influencing of Water Quality in Inle Lake

Lake's water quality is greatly influenced by the nature of the lake watershed;
that is, topography, land use and land cover condition, vegetation, and hydrology. In
Inle Lake, water is influenced by the natural process as well as human activities.
These processes cause water quality degradation. According to Johnson (1993), water
pollution is divided into eight categories. These are
a. sediment pollution
b. sewage
c. disease- causing agent
d. inorganic plant nutrients
e. organic compounds
e. inorganic chemicals
f. radioactive substances and
g. thermal pollution.
Furthermore, water pollutions are divided into two main categories, such as
point source pollution and non-point source pollution. Point source pollutants are
easier to control more than non point source pollutants. Water Quality in Inle Lake is
also influenced by its watershed and their effluent see in Table 1.22.
Table 1.22 Relationships between Watershed Area and Water Quality
sr.
Watershed Area
Characteristics
Pollutants
formed with limestone
chemical
alkalinity, hardness
cleared of vegetation, soil erosion
sedimentation
Turbidity,
on mountain slope
3
have intensive agriculture
TDS,
TSS
fertilizer, pesticide and herbicide
Nitrogen, phosphate
solid waste and waste water
Phosphate
sediments, chemical and others
Several Chemical
(floating garden, mountain

agriculture)
4
population growth (domestic and

animal effluents and sewage)
surface run-off, storm water
(non-point source of pollution)

6
urban runoff
municipal waste water, sewage or Several Chemical

specific sites (point source of
pollution)
Source: Based on Field Observation, 2006
84
In natural process, the water in Inle Lake is more alkaline because the lake is
situated in limestone area. Aquatic plants and animals died and their bodies are
deposited at the bottom of the lake and their decomposition effect the quality of water.
Similarly, wind wave actions, some masses of algae and tall grass that have been
loosen from their body and decomposed at the bottom and along the shore that also
affect the quality of water. Dense algae growth and water hyacinth propagation cover
at the top of the upper layer of water prevent sunlight penetration. As a result algae in
the water and aquatic animals die off because of oxygen deficiency in the deep water.
Intensive agriculture, population growth and floating agriculture produce
some pollutants such as nitrogen and phosphorus. Using fertilizer and spraying
pesticide also affect the water quality. Fertilizers and herbicide from floating garden
cultivation and agriculture from watershed areas are the main nutrient sources of Inle
Lake.
Furthermore, domestic sewage, livestock sewage and phosphate detergent
combine to produce the nutrients in water. In some villages in Inle Lake such as
Inbawkhon and Ywama villages, there are many domestic industries of hand weaving
industries using dye and chemical which also have an effect on the water quality.
Goldsmith, silversmith and blacksmith are the unique features of Inle Lake. These
workshops may cause the lake water quality degradation by using some kind of
chemicals.
Around the Inle Lake, agriculture extension, logging, shifting cultivation as
well as frequent forest fire caused deforestation. Consequently, during the rain time,
soil erosion and surface run off than flow into the lake can cause turbidity which
brought down many materials such as organic and inorganic matters and some of the
dissolved solids. Silt carried by runoff pollutes the water then deposited to the bottom,
kill aquatic plants and animals, causing lakes, ponds and stream channels to silt up.
Soil erosion is increasing stream and lake turbidity, could be reversely habitats for
fish as it is reducing light penetrations in turn lead to a decline in carrying capacity.
Inorganic phosphate in municipal waste water and synthetic detergents or
organic phosphate and nitrogen from agricultural fertilizers encouraged Lake
Eutrophication. Eutrophication affects many aquatic lives due to the DO depletion.
Without free DO, streams and lakes become uninhabitable to gill-breathing aquatic
organism.
85
Dead body of aquatic animals and plants and domestic effluents are major
sources of bacteria. Bacteria are large groups of microscopic organism, widely
distributed in nature such as air, water, soil, animals' plants and dead organic matter.
There are many sources of bacteria present in any body of water. Many of these
bacteria make up the "normal flora" of the water, whilst other may enter the water by
being washed down from vegetation, soil, farm lands, etc: or by sewage plant and
sewage effluent. Bacteria is sensitive to external condition and can respond quickly to
slight changes in their environment in terms of temperature, moisture, hydrogen ion
concentration and oxygen which are important in controlling their distribution.
Above all these mentioned factors are influencing the water quality of Inle
Lake, among them some influencing factors of the water quality variables can assess
in this study as follow in figure1.
Using Pesticide &

Herbicide
(N, P&K)
Direct Sewage (N& P)

& Coliform
Soil Erosion
(TDS & Turbidity)
Using Chemical in
Domestic Industries
(COD)
Runoff, Domestic Effluent

(Toxic Substance
esp; Arsenic)
Affect on Water
Quality
Aquatic Plants
Decaying Process (N,
P & Bacteria
Depth of Water
(DO)
Photosynthesis
Process (DO)
Figure.1.12 Factors influencing on Water Quality in Inle Lake

Source: Field Observation
1.7. Changes of Water Quality

Water in Inle Lake is one of the valuable resources for drinking, agriculture,
domestic uses, recreation, tourism and many other purposes. Among them, Lawpita
Hydroelectric Power Plant is a very important one which utilized water power of Inle
Lake. Hence, the water resources are very important for the lake dwellers as well as
one of the national treasures. It is necessary to conserve these valuables water
resources of Inle Lake.
86
Assess of the water quality, is one of the international standards in the world.
But some countries have their own standard values for drinking or other purposes. It
can be compared with some of the standard values of many countries for drinking
water and portable water in the world are as follow:
Table.1.23 Standard Values of Drinking Water and Fisheries and Aquatic Life of
Some Countries
Variables
Turbidity
(NTU)
TDS
(mg/l)
pH
DO
(mg/l)
Nitrate
(mg/l)
Phosphate
(mg/l)
Arsenic
(mg/l)
Coliform
(/100ml)
WHO
5
EU
4 JTU
Drinking Water
Canada
USA
5
0.5-1.0
1,000
<8.04
50
6.51-8.51
Russia
Fisheries and Aquatic life

EU
Canada
Russia
25
500
500
1,000
6.5-8.5
6.5-8.5
6.0-9.0
6.0-9.0
inc.ofv10
or 10%3
6.5-9.0
4.0
5.0-9.0
5.0-9.5
50
45
4.05-6.0
40
5.0
0.01(p) 0.05
0.05
0.05
0.5
1013
0.3
0.0050.17
Sources: Water Quality Assessments. 1992.
To compare the water quality in Inle Lake, there were some of the historical
documents for water quality of Inle Lake. Water measurement was expressed by
N.annadale (1918) at "Fauna of the Inle Lake", by referencing another author called
Mr. R.V. Briggs as follow:
Total Solids
0.1710 (per liter)
Organic matter
0.0160
Calcium
0.0222
Magnesium
0.0279
Chlorine
0.0017
Sulphate (So4)
0.0017
Silica
0.0010 Total Solids
At that time, the water quality status of Inle Lake was very good. In 1984, Nu Nu
Khin studied the trace element for fish and vegetable of Inle Area. In this study, the
researcher measures the trace element of water quality. In 1997, Ni Ni Moe measured
the water quality for drinking water and agricultural purposes. In 2004, the Chemistry
87
Department of Taunggyi University staffs studied some characteristics of water from

Inle Lake; in this study they measured some water quality parameters such as pH,
Hardness, Total Dissolved Solids, Dissolved Oxygen, Chemical Oxygen Demand,
Biochemical Oxygen Demand and Trace Elements (Cd, Cu, Hg, Pb, Fe, Al). They
concluded that Inle Lake is still a good water resource. At the same time, in 2004,
Chemistry Department of Taunggyi University also made a long term study on
sedimentation in Inle Lake; they measured pH, TDS, TSS and Total Hardness. The
finding of this study showed that sedimentation of TDS of all the streams lies in the
allowable limit of WHO standard. The lake water is more alkaline in nature. The
hardness lies between 150-300 ppm.
In this present research work, pH value was over 8 in winter and summer, and
in the rainy season pH value was between 7 and 9. Therefore, Inle Lake water was
more alkaline in nature.
In sample site 1 of Thandaung Chaung it was found to have more turbidity
rate than other samples sites. The deposition of sediment is the highest in Thandaung
Chaung. Compared to Indain Chaung it was found to be more turbid, because Indain
Chaung has Silt trapping dam. Turbidity was the highest in rainy season but other
sample sites have not significantly increased. Thus, deposition of sediment occurred
at the mouth of the streams and lake which become shallower. Therefore, turbidity of
all the samples was higher than the drinking water of WHO standard.
Total Dissolved solid of all sample sites were between 150 to 410 mg/l. Thus,
it lies in the acceptable limit of WHO standard.
Coliform was the highest value in all the sample sites in summer. It seems that
the water level and temperature is influenced by the coli form level. Thus, the
coliform was higher than the acceptable limit of WHO standard.
Arsenic is one of the toxic substances and it can be found only at sample 5 or
Tale-U Ale Myaungwa in rainy season. Actually arsenic was not found in the lake
except sample 5 in rainy season. It can be concluded that the arsenic was lower than
that of the standard value.
Dissolved Oxygen is an important factor for aquatic life and the chemical
characteristics of the environment. Fluctuations of Dissolved Oxygen depend upon
the temperature, wind and algae weed bed. Generally, in Inle Lake, Dissolved Oxygen
was high at noon and low in the evening in algae bed. At the same time Dissolved
Oxygen was high at midnight and low in the day time in less algae areas.
88
Chemical Oxygen Demand was distributed in every sample sites. It is

significant that the Chemical Oxygen Demand was highest in the middle layer or b
layer (1 meter depth).
Conductivity was the highest in the winter and the lowest in rainy season in all
the samples. Conductivity lies between 23 to 58 ms/l. Therefore it can be found that
conductivity was higher than the WHO standard value.
Nitrogen was not found in the sample sites 1 and 2, it means that the nitrogen
was not found in Thandaung Stream but nitrogen was found in Indain Stream. It can
be seen that the nitrogen value is less in inflowing water than in the Inle Lake.
Nitrogen was not found in the middle part of the lake and Kela Village (intensive
floating island cultivation) in all three seasons. Maximum nitrogen was found at
sample 3, sample 4, sample 5 and sample 7. The highest value of nitrate was found at
sample 5 or at the mouth of Tale-U Stream in rainy season with the value of 3.05
ppm.
Normally, although phosphate is usually less abundant, it is more important as
a limiting factor than nitrogen. In Inle Lake, phosphate was found in all sample sites
in every season. Phosphate was higher in rainy season than winter and summer. The
maximum phosphate was found in sample 1 at Thandaung Stream with 0.44 ppm in
rainy season.
When the average concentration of soluble inorganic nitrogen exceeds 0.30
ppm and the soluble inorganic phosphorus content exceeds 0.01ppm, algae
populations may explode (1985, Oliver S.Owen). Nitrates usually indicate pollution
by human or animal waste and fertilizer run-off. In case of extreme pollution,
concentrations may reach 200mg/l. In lake concentration of nitrate in excess of 0.2
mg/l -1 tend to stimulate algae growth and indicate possible eutrophication conditions.
(1992.UNESCO, WHO, UNEP)
Therefore, nitrogen and phosphate nutrients indicated that the algae
population is under explosion and the lake is starting towards eutrophication.
89
CHAPTER 2
WATER SURFACE AREA CHANGES IN INLE LAKE
2.1. The Origin and Types of Lake
There are many ways in which lakes basin originate in the world. The origins
of the lake basin often determines the size and shape of the lake, which in turn,
influences the lake's productivity, water quality, the habitats of it offers and its
lifespan (EPA, 1990).
According to Dr. Nyi Nyi, There are 17 lakes in Myanmar: Indawgyi Lake,
Indaw Lake, Twindaung Lake, Thamantha Lake, Halin Lake, Yemyet-In Lake,
Aungpinle Lake, Inle Lake, Imma Lake, Htoo Lake, Duya Lake, Inyegyi Lake,
Gyophyu Lake, Hlawga Lake, Inya Lake and Kandawgyi Lake. Among them Inle
Lake, one of the most important lakes in Southeast Asia, is natural shallow lake and it
has one outlet known as Belu Chaung. Because Inle Lake is natural shallow lake, it is
biologically more productive than deep lake.
Inle Lake has probably originated as a result of tectonic movement and
became a type of solution lake with it basins hollowed out of limestone by the
dissolving action of water and formed by the slow dissolving of soluble rock by
water. But at present there is no evidence of sinks in Inle Lake.
2.2. Research Methodology
It is impossible to know the water surface area data which was not measured
in the past. Therefore, the most suitable method is remote sensing technique to
observe the changes of water surface area. It has some limitation that it could not be
analyzed because the satellite images for Inle area were not available for previous
years. Therefore, this study can only be measured within three periods for 1990, 2000
and 2005. In addition the Inle Lake's watershed area is quite large and it is difficult
for field observation for the whole watershed. And the practical use of remote sensing
imagery is better than to solve problems for conservation biology and environmental
management (David S. Wilkie and John T. Finn. 1996). Thus this research applied RS
(Remote Sensing) and GIS (Geographical Information System) techniques, some of
the computer software such as GeoMedia Software, ENVI Software, ArcView
90
Software and TNTSTART Software.
The satellite images used from Landsat 7
ETM+7 Bands which were obtain from UNEP and NCEA through Forest Department.
The major proponents of the research are:
1. Digitize Topographic Maps
2. Data Collection and Preliminary Field Observation
3. Digital Image Pre-processing
4. Field Observation
5. Digital Image Final-processing
6. Data Analysis and Results
The main databases are
(a)Topographic Maps 1 inch to 1 mile (1:63360)
(93 D 9, 93 D 10, 93 D 11, 93 D 12, 93 D 13, 93 D 14, 93 D 15, 93 D 16,
93 C 12, 93 C 16, 93 G 4, 93 H 1, 93 H 2, 93 H 3, 93 H 4)
(b). Satellite Images with Landsat TM+7 Bands, acquisition date is for January
1990, 2000 and 2005, pixel spacing with 30 meter resolution.
(c) Secondary data from Agriculture Department, Forest Department and
Irrigation Department and Meteorology Department
In the first step, topographic maps with scale of 1: 63360 were converted into
digital format and then registered with georeferencing by Geography Lat/long on
ENVI Software. Rivers and streams on Geomedia Software to obtain watershed area
and villages are recorded. Digitizing on topographic maps is very fundamental for
GIS technique and it takes a long time to complete. After digitizing the streams
network on map, watershed area of Inle Lake was defined. In the second step, the
satellite image was analyzed with Remote Sensing technique with standard false
colour composite (FCC) 4, 3, 2 bands combination. It has used it in preliminary field
survey on the study area.
Initially, with the use of false colour image, the general conditions of
land cover and forest types were checked with ground truth survey. In this field
survey, location of each land cover type of locations was recorded by GPS (Global
Positioning System). Land cover classification was done by TNTSTART Software
with supervised classification based on information from the ground check. Image
classification can be expressed in flowchart (3.1) as follow:
91
Land sat Image

1990 Rectification
Land sat Images

2000 Rectification
Training area
Selection
Training area
Selection
Processing Image
Training area
Selection
Processing Image
No / Yes
Processing Image
No / Yes
Classified Image
No / Yes
Classified Image
Overlay
Operation
Ground Truth
Data
Land sat Image

2005 Rectification
Overlay
Operation
Classified Image
Overlay
Operation
Overlay Operation
1990, 2000 & 2005
Changes Analysis
Data (Draft)
Changes Analysis
Data (Corrected)
Report Data
Display Map
Figure 2.1 Flowchart for Images Processing and Data Generation for Land
Cover Changes
Source: Author
In this case, there are two ways of images of classifications:

(a) Unsupervised Classification and
92
(b) Supervised Classification

Unsupervised classification is the computer program automatically groups the
pixels in the images into separate clusters, depending on their spectral features. Each
cluster will be assigned a land cover by the analysis. Supervised classification defined
the process of samples of known identity to classify pixels of unknown identity.
Samples of known identity are those pixels located within training area on the image.
Then the maximum likelihood classification technique was applied to develop the
classification types which were divided into seven classes. Image classification is in
flowchart 3.1.
From the output of land cover classifications, invalidated information was
checked in the second field survey. The first survey gives factors to consider for the
second survey and image analyses. The second detailed survey was done to confirm
or adjust the accuracy of land cover at the ground conditions. Land cover
classifications were analyzed three different times of 1990, 2000 and 2005 and
compare changes and their frequency. Besides, to obtain information on land cover
changes, informal interviews were also conducted to some of local people.
The study focused on water surface area changes for 1990, 2000 and 2005.
Although it should be considered the land cover for many years back, it is impossible
to obtain the images before 1990.
2.3. Changes in Water Surface Area of Inle Lake

There are some historical documents for Inle Lake area. Most of the scholars
believed that the lake may be covered as a grate lake in one period. Among them Dr.
N. Annandale7 (1918) expressed very distinctly as follow:
"I have not seen this place and can, therefore, only point out again that a very large
tract of country to the south of the lake must at one time have been covered by its
waters, and have been gradually filled in by the two processes referred to above, i.e.
by the deposition of silt and the formation of peat, especially by the latter agency"
This may be the earliest record for Inle Lake area. He mentioned that the lake's
area at that time was 56 square miles and average depth is not more than 7 feet and
the depth varied seasonally. But at the end of the rainy season the greatest depth must
be at least 20 feet. He believed that, at one time, the area of Inle must have covered a
greater area than it does at present and it have been deeper. It may have been over a
7
Dr. N. Annandale. D. Sc., F.A.S.B., The Director, Zoological Survey of India
93
hundred miles long and several feet deep. It is likely that a very large tract of the
country to the south of the lake must at one time have been covered by its water. It
has been gradually filled in by the deposition of silt and the formation of peat,
especially by the latter agency. Moreover it is by no means the only lake once existed
in the neighborhood and it was evident that the country was a regular lake country.
Dr. Annandale gave an example that some of the lakes must have dried up in remote
period, but others have dried up recently, perhaps even in historical times. And he
pointed out that these lakes have dried up because of the deposition of silt and
formations of peat may not be the only factors that have lead to the disappearance of
water from the basins. Another cause has been the eating through of limestone by
water rendered acid by the decay of vegetation.
Chibber8 (1934) also expressed that the exact dimension of the lake was
impossible to state because of two factors: one is, its size increases greatly in the rainy
season and the other that is it has not at any time of the year what may be called a
solid margin, for it completely surrounded by floating island formed by the growth
and decay of vegetation.
Dewan Mohinder Nath9 (1961) expressed in his study of "Botanical Survey of
the Southern Shan State: Vegetation of the Inle Lake", that Inle Lake had once been
occupied by a large lake, the whole basin of Nyaung Shwe , much larger than the
Indawgyi Lake, with an area of 190 square miles. In his study, he gave information of
Inle Lake area of that time with an average length of 9 miles from north to south and a
width of 3.5 miles from east to west. Therefore the area of the Inle Lake was 31.5
miles.
Dr. Nyi Nyi10 (1967) guessed that the present lake is only the remnant of the
old lake which was at least 36 miles long with a maximum breadth of perhaps about 8
miles. Therefore, the area of the lake covered with 288 sq miles. At that time, the Inle
Lake was 11 miles long and 4 miles broad and with an area of 44 sq miles (may be
measured in raining season). The depth varies with the season, in dry season it was
not more than 7 feet, but it increased at the greatest depth, to at least 20 feet in the
rainy season. He also h mentioned that the lake was completely surrounded by
H.L. Chibber (1934). The Geologist, formerly Head of Department of Geology and Geography,
University Collage, University of Yangon.
9
Mohinder Nath (1961) Lecturer in Botany and Curator of the Herbarium, University of Yangon.
10
Dr. Nyi Nyi (1967). The Geologist, Head of Department of Geology, Yangon University.
94
floating islands formed by the growth and decay of vegetation and mass together
round its edges.
One of the famous geologists, Freiedrich Bender11 (1983, p.214) stated the
origin of the Inle Lake as:
"A regular Lake country must have existed here, probably until the Pleistocene. With
exception of the Inle Lake, these lakes disappeared as a result of karstification and
subsurface run-off in the carbonate rocks, or locally also as a result of peat formation
and silting-up process."
He also mentioned that the lake was 14 miles long and 3.9 miles wide. Its
depth varies considerably between 13 feet the in dry season to 22 feet in the rainy
season. This result was slightly different from other researchers. But he expressed
that it is impossible to determine the exact area of the lake surface because it increase
in size during the rainy season and a merges at the margins into floating islands of
living and decaying vegetation which in turn grow together further towards the land
and then merge into marshy area.
Concerning with the quantity of water in Inle Lake, Dr. Nyi Nyi (1987)
expressed that
"The average total inflow into Inle Lake is about 40 billion cu.ft. per year and since
the silt sedimentation is calculated to be about 22 million cu.ft. per year and the
storage capacity of Inle Lake is about 12.2 billion cu.ft."
2.3.1. Changes of Water Surface Area in Inle Lake between 1990, 2000 and 2005
At present, over one decade, Inle Lake is also being faced with silting up and
shrinkage problems. Beside sedimentation, the main problem of water surface area
changes in Inle Lake are
(a) extension of floating garden cultivation
(b) population growth with building of land plots for houses and
(c) eutropication or vegetation propagation of the majority of aquatic plants
These three factors influenced water surface area of the lake. According to
the analysis on satellite Images with GIS and RS technique, water surface area of the
lake has changed between 1990, 2000 and 2005 are shown in figure 2.1 and table 2.1;
11
Frendish Bender. The geologist of Geology Department, Germany.
95
2 Miles
Figure 2.1 Water Surface Area Changes in Inle Lake between 1990, 2000 and
2005
Source : Extract from Landset TM 7
Table 2.1 Water Surface Area Related with Floating Garden and Marsh Land
Descriptions
1990
acres
2000
sq. miles
acres
2005
sq. miles
acres
sq. miles
Open water Body
16,798.23
26.24
13,993.69
21.87
13,208.42
20.64
Floating Garden
29,254.76
45.71
37,237.86
58.18
40,828.64
63.79
Mash Land
18,144.61
28.35
12,378.45
19.34
9,572.95
14.96
Total
64,197.59
100.31
63,610.01
99.40
63,610.01
99.40
Source: Land Cover Changes between 1990, 2000 and 2005
96
Table 2.1 demonstrated that the open water surface area changes in Inle Lake.
It seems significant that in 1990, the open water surface was 16798.23 acres (26.24 sq
miles) was changed to 13993.69 acres (21.87 sq miles) in year 2000 and 13208.42
acres (20.64 sq miles) in 2005. The open water body decreased 3591.82 acres (5.61 sq
miles) during 15 years. Actually, Inle Lake is composed of open water body, floating
garden cultivation, and marsh land and settlement area. Therefore, it can be proposed
that the lake area comprising these four factors is 64197.59 acres (63610.31 sq miles)
in 1990 and it was changed to 63610.10 acres (99.40 sq miles) in 2000. Again the area
of Inle Lake was 63610.01 acres (99.39 square miles) in 2005. Among these periods,
the lake area was only few mile (near one sq mile) smaller than between 1990 and
2000 but between 2000 and 2005 the lake area did not change significantly.
2.3.2. Seasonal Variations of Water Surface Area in Inle Lake

According to field measurement, in August, the average depth of the lake's
water is 6 feet higher than that of April. The surface area decreased in summer, but its
size increased in rainy season again. The water level is gradually decreased from
December to until April and May. The lake's surface is the narrowest in April and
May. In rainy season, water level increase water surface area expanse and some part
of the villages and marsh land were converted into the water area of the lake.
The lake area varies depending on the amount of rainfall and runoff condition.
If the amount of rainfall is high, the surface of the lake will expand. According to the
data of monthly mean water level variation of Inle Lake between 1990 and 2005
Table.2.5, the water level was the highest with 2905.5 feet in September, 1992 and the
lowest with 2893.3 feet in April, 2005.
Based on the seasonal water level changes, seasonal water surface area can be
assumed with GIS technique. If the water level increases 2893.3 feet, the water
surface area will expend to 11007.96 acres (17.20 miles). If the water level increase
2995.5 feet, the water surface area will expand to about 51017.17 acres (79.71 sq
miles). Thus, the water surface area changes according to the water level changes. At
that time, the water surface area reach 47.6 miles from north to south (from 20 1' 6''
north latitude and 96 1' 32'' east longitude to 20 28' north latitude and 96 1' 30'' east
longitude) and the broadest part is 9 miles from east to west (20 56' north latitude 96
1'35'' east longitude to 20 57' north latitude to 96 1' 26'' east longitude). See in
Figure2.2.
97
Figure 2.3 Seasonal Variations of Water Surface Area in Inle Lake

Source Extract from Land Sat TM+7
3.3. Land Cover Changes of Inle Lake Watershed Area

Water surface of the lake is greatly influenced by its watershed and land cover
condition. In order to consider the changes water surface area, land cover changes
should be assessed. Land cover or land use in the watershed area is greatly influenced
by the quality and quantity of water. In this research, land cover classifications are
basically divided into (3) types: forest, agriculture and water body and sub-divided
into (7) classifications in Inle Watershed. These are;
(a) closed forest
(b) open forest
(c) scrub and grass land
(d) mash land, agriculture
(e) floating garden and
(f) water body
According to the results of satellite images processing, the watershed area of
Inle Lake is approximately 1017254 acres (1589.46 sq. miles). Table 2.2, 2.3 and
figure 2.3, 2.4, 2.5 and 2.6 shows that the land cover changes in Inle Lake Watershed
area can be expressed as follow;
2.3.3.1. Closed Forest

In 1990, there were 216407.52 acres (338.14 sq miles) of closed forest in
watershed area of Inle Lake and it was changed to 53058.53 acres (82.90 sq miles) of
open forest, 19744.80 acres (30.85 sq miles) of scrub and grassland and 60716.18
acres (90.87 sq miles) of agriculture land. Therefore, the closed forest was decreased
from 216407.52 acres (338.14 sq miles) to 42888.01 acres (67.01 sq miles) and, only
173519.51 acres (271.12 sq miles) of closed forest was left in the year 2000. Figures
2.3 and 2.4.
In 2005, the closed forest was changed to 23398.29 acres (36.56 sq miles) of
opened forest and to 1161.73 acres (1.815 sq miles) of scrub and grassland. But there
was no change from closed forest to agriculture land in the years between 2000 and
2005. Figure 2.5.
Based on the above sources, closed forest was changed into open forest, scrub
and grassland and agriculture land. About 34560.02 acres (38.37 sq miles) of closed
forest were reduced between 15 years. Among them, the most significant changes
were from closed forest to agriculture land. See in Table 2.2 and 2.3
99
295562.9072
42888.008
129391.2523
ScrubGrassland
19744.80295
38460.58905
71185.86026
Closed Forest
Open Forest
1.Closed Forest
8327.98662
23398.29093
2.Open Forest
184076.1479
3.Scrub-Grassland
4.Marshland
5.Agriculture
6.Floating Garden
7.Water Body
Grand Total
8327.98662
207474.4388
Source: Based on Land Sat TM+7
Sum of Acre
2000
202471.0195
ScrubGrassland
1161.73046
111486.7593
79822.5297
Mash Land
721.3996181
12378.44781
11657.0482
100
9572.948008
9572.948008
Marsh Land
Table 2.3 Land Cover Changes between 2000 and 2005 of Inle Lake
93058.52862
113210.5349
89293.84367
42888.008
1.Closed Forest
2.Open Forest
3.Scrub- Grassland
4.Marsh Land
5.Agriculture
6.Floating Garden
7.WaterBody
Grand Total
Open Forest
Closed Forest
1990
Sum of Acre
Table 2.2 Land Cover Changes between 1990 and 2000 of Inle Lake
535371.4262
485802.7037
49568.72256
2005
Agriculture
485802.7037
60716.18474
139607.0509
143094.0666
587.5867509
141797.8147
Agriculture
2000
37237.86706
1071.271705
40828.63993
2519.501173
Floating Garden
29254.76062
2083.136769
37237.86706
5899.96669
Floating
Garden
12922.42344
13208.42207
285.9986326
Water Body
13993.69515
13993.69515
Water Body
42888.008
295562.9072
129391.2523
12378.44781
485802.7037
37237.86706
13993.69515
1017254.881
Grand Total
216407.5243
291278.1748
303573.7706
15481.32378
141797.8147
31861.15097
16855.12201
1017254.881
Grand Total
2.3.3.2. Open Forest

In Inle Watershed, about 291278.17 acres (455.12 sq miles) of opened forest
was changed to 38460.59 acres (60.09 sq miles) of scrub and grassland and 139607.05
acres (21.82 sq miles) of agriculture land from 1990 to 2000. Therefore, open forest
of Inle Watershed changed from 291278.17 acres (455.12 sq miles) in 1990 to
295562.90 acres (461.81 sq miles) in 2000 and it increased 4284.73 acres (6.69 sq
miles) in these periods because about 93058.53 acres (145.404 sq miles) of closed
forest shifted to open forest. Figure 2.3 and 2.4.
In 2005, the open forest changed from 295562.90 acres (461.81 sq miles) to
111486.75 acres (174.72 sq miles) of scrub and grassland. But there was no change
from open forest to agriculture land in this period. Therefore, the open forest was
reduced from 295562.90 acres (461.82 sq miles) to 207474.44 acres (324.18 sq miles)
and only 184076.15 acres (287.61 sq miles) was left in 2005. Figure 2.5.
In this case, a noticeable point is that the open forest was considerably
increased between 1990 and 2000 with the consequences of changes from closed
forest to open forest, but it was reduced again from 2000 to 2005. The open forest
decreased 83803.74 acres (130.94 sq miles) during 15 years.
2.3.3.3. Scrub and Grassland

Scrub and grassland was 303573 acres (474.3 sq miles) in 1990 and it
decreased to 129391.25 acres (202.1738 sq miles) in 2000 in Inle Watershed. It was
changed to 89293.84 acres (136.51 sq miles) of open forest and 143094.07 acres
(22.49 sq miles) of agriculture land. Therefore scrub and grassland was decreased
271.12 acres (0.42 sq mile) within 1990 to 2000 and it had remained 71185.86 acres
(111.23sq miles). Figure 2.3 and 2.4.
Furthermore, scrub and grassland was continuously changed from 129391.25
acres (202.17 sq miles) to 49568.72 acres (77.45 sq miles) of agriculture land in 2005.
Thus, 79822 acres (124.72 sq miles) of scrub and grassland were still left in 2005.
Figure 2.5.
These results illustrate that scrub and grassland had shrunk to 174146.51 acres
(272.10 sq miles) within 15 years.
101
2.3.3.4. Marsh land

Marsh land is one of the important factors of Inle Lake because it strongly
affects the water surface of the Inle Lake. Between 1990 and 2000, mash land was
changed from 15481.32 acres (272.10 sq miles) to 12378.45 acres (19.34 sq miles)
because of 587.57 acres (0.92 sq miles) of agriculture land and approximately
3636.60 acres (5.68 sq miles) of floating garden cultivation was reversed to marsh
land. Marsh land covered 8232.38 acres (12.86 sq miles) in this time. Figure 2.3 and
2.4.
In 2005, marsh land was changed to 2519.50 acres (3.94 sq miles) of floating
garden cultivation and 285.99 acres (0.45 sq miles) of water body. Therefore, marsh
land area was changing alternately with water body, floating garden cultivation and
agriculture land. Thus marsh land was changed from 12378.45 acres (19.34 sq miles)
in 2000 to 9572.95 acres (14.96 sq miles) in 2005. Figure 2.5.
It was found that marsh land was reduced by 3102.88 acres (4.85 sq miles)
within 15 year.
2.3.3.5. Agriculture
In Inle Lake Watershed, there was 141797.81 acres (221.56 sq miles) of
agricultural land and it grew to 485802.71 acres (759.07 sq miles) in 2000. The
extension of agriculture in this region was 344004.89 acres (537.50 sq miles) and it
increased more than three times within 10 years. These agriculture lands were
extended from 60716.18 acres (90.87 sq miles) of closed forest, 139607.05 acres
(21.82 sq miles) of open forest, 143094.06 acres (22.49 sq miles) of scrub and grass
land and 587.59 aces (0.92 sq miles) of mash land. (Fig 2.3 and 2.4)
Agricultural land extension was steadily extended in 2005, in which 49568.72
acres (77.45 sq miles) of scrub and grassland was converted to agriculture land. Thus
agricultural land was 535371.43 acres (836. 52 sq miles) in 2005. Figurer 2.5.
These results show that the agricultural land was dramatically increased during
1990 to 2000 but the increase rate was gradual to 2005. The extension of agriculture
land was 393573.61 acres (614.95 sq miles) during 15 years.
2.3.3.6. Floating Garden Cultivation

Floating garden cultivation (hydro phonic farm) is a distinguished
characteristic of Inle Lake. In 1990, floating garden cultivation was 31681.15 acres
102
(49.78 sq miles) in Inle Lake and it gradually increased to 37237.87 acres (58. 18 sq
miles) in 2000. This figure represented that floating garden cultivation was extended
5556.72 acres (8.68 sq miles) from 1990 to 2000. This extension is caused by changes
of mash land 3636.60 acres (5.68 sq miles) and water body 2531.96 acres (13993.69
sq miles. Figure 2.3 and 2.4.
In the year 2005, floating garden cultivation extended to 40828.64 acres
(63.79 sq miles). It was because 1071. 27 acres (1.67 sq miles) of water body which
was converted to floating garden cultivation. It was found that the floating garden
cultivation was extended from 31861.15 acres (49.78sq miles) in 1990 to 40828.63
acres (63.79 sq miles) in 2005. It represent the extension was 8697.49 acres (13.59 sq
miles) within 15 years. Figure 2.5.
2.3.3.7. Water Body

Water body or water surface area decreased 725.27 acres (1.13 sq miles)
within 15 years, from 16855.12 acres (26.34 sq miles) in 1990 to 13993.69515 acres
(21.87 sq miles) in 2005.In 1990, the water surface area was 16855 acres (26.33 sq
miles) it was reduced to 13993.69 acres (21. 87 sq miles) in 2000 due to the extension
of 2083.14 acres (3.26 sq miles) floating garden and 721. 39 acres (1.12 sq miles) of
marsh land propagation. Figure 2.3 and 2.4.
Again in 2005, the water surface area was only 20.42 acres (20.63 sq miles)
because 1071.27 acres (1.67 sq miles) was changed to floating garden. Figure 2.5.
The land cover maps showed the changes very clearly. In 1990, closed forests
were found in northern edge, eastern and southwestern part of the watershed area,
near Pinlaung range, Kyauktalone range and Pindaya-Ywangan area. But in 2000,
these closed forests were changed to open forest, scrubgrassland and agriculture. In
some part of the watershed area, near Taunggyi, scrub and grassland were changed
into open forest because of the reforestation programme. Agriculture extension
occurred in the lake watershed area especially in western and north-western part of
the lake, near Kalaw- Aung Ban, Heho Valley and Thamakhan Plain. Land cover
conditions of watershed area were influenced by the changes in water surface area.
Figure 2.7.
103
Figure 2.4 Land Cover Classifications of Inle Watershed Area for 1990
Source: Extract from Land Sat TM 7
Classification
Acres
Sq. Miles
Closed
Forest
216407.52
338.13
Open
Forest
291278.17
455.12
Scrub &
Grassland
303573.77
474.33
Mash
Land
18144.60
28.35
Agriculture
141797.81
221.55
Floating
Garden
29254.76
45.71
Water
Body
16855.12
26.33
Figure 2.4 Land Cover Classification of Inle Watershed Area for 2000
Source: Extract from Land sat TM 7
Classification
Acres
Sq. Miles
Closed
Forest
422888.01
67.01
Open
Forest
295562.90
461.81
Scrub &
Grassland
129391.25
202.17
Mash
Land
12378.45
19.34
Agriculture
485802.70
759.06
Floating
Garden
37237.86
58.18
Water
Body
13993.69
21.86
Figure 2.5 Land Cover Classifications of Inle Watershed Area in 2005

Source: Extract from Land sat TM 7
Classification
Acres
Sq. Miles
Closed
Forest
8327.99
13.01
Open
Forest
207474.43
324.17
Scrub &
Grassland
202471.01
316.36
Mash
Land
9572.94
14.95
Agriculture
535371.42
836.51
Floating
Garden
40828.63
63.79
Water
Body
13208.42
20.63
Figure 2.6 Land Cover Changes of Inle Watershed Area between 1990, 2000 and
2005
Source: Extract from Land sat TM
Closed Forest
Open Forest
Scrub & Grassland
Agriculture
Marsh Land
Floating Garden
Water Surface Area

Direct influence to water surface
Indirect influence to water surface
Figure 2.7 Relationships between Land Cover Changes of Watershed Area and
Water Surface Area Changes of Inle Lake
2.4. Factors Influencing Water Surface Area of Inle Lake

The sources of water of Inle Lake are direct precipitation, inflow water and
ground water recharge. There are 29 inflowing streams into the Inle Lake and they
influence the quantity and quality of water in Inle Lake.
Reasons that cause the changes of water surface area in Inle Lake are
(a) climatic condition,
(b) sedimentation,
(c) eutrophication,
(d) floating garden cultivation extension and
(e) population growth
2.4.1. Climatic Condition

In the determination of the quantity of water, temperature, precipitation and
evaporation are great important factors. These climatic conditions influence the
changes of water body of the lake and these dominated the rate of weathering and
erosion. In rainy season, the lake is expanded and lake's margin is difficult to define
because most of the lake area is covered with floating islands, settlement and floating
garden cultivation.
Generally, lake expansion depends upon the amount of precipitation and
inflow of streams. See table 2.4 and Figure 2.6.
108
Table 2.4 Average Rainfall Data of Watershed Area of Inle Lake from 1990 to
2005
Year
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
Taunggyi
44.43
44.93
41.49
37.31
47.69
47.66
46.76
45.38
38.82
59.18
52.24
73.92
55.18
53.39
64.67
60.54
Nyaungshwe
31.37
39.92
46.34
36.27
38.41
34.00
50.17
47.51
48.52
46.90
40.26
36.14
29.81
31.75
46.46
58.76
kalaw
42.68
53.12
53.87
36.29
41.40
3.77
47.48
35.03
35.75
48.55
36.37
36.63
32.07
44.28
34.76
66.38
Yaksauk
35.86
42.45
39.28
35.92
34.25
52.01
36.65
29.4
24.63
45.58
32.5
44.58
34.49
41.65
52.14
62.85
Source: Meteorology and Hydrology Department and Agriculture Department, Taunggyi

9630'
9645'
9700'
97
9715'
2115'
2115'
21
2100'
21
2100'
2045'
2045'
2030'
2030'
2015'
Rainfall (mm)
< 1268
1268- 1495
1495- 1722
1722- 1949
> 1949
No Data
Watershed Boundary
2015'
9630'
9645'
97
9700'
14 Miles
9715'
Figure 2.9 Average Rainfall of Inle Watershed from 1990 to 2005

Source: Metheological Department and Agriculture Department, Taunggyi.
Pinlaung
94.73
85.07
7041
77.26
81.17
87.05
101.34
55.33
94.91
74.18
79.12
95.00
76.39
95.46
97.72
In rainy season, the lake is expanded and lake's margin is difficult to define
because most of the lake area is covered with floating islands, settlement and floating
garden cultivation.
According to the field measurement, water depth of the lake increases about 6
feet in rainy season especially in September and October and water surface area of
lake also expanded. Actually, the changes of water surface area depend upon the
amount of precipitation from the watershed area. Moreover, water surface area is also
related to water level variation. If the water level increased, water surface area will be
extended. The depth of the lake water is varied with seasons as shown in Table 2.5.
Table 2.5 Monthly Mean Water Level Variation of Inle Lake from 1992 to 2005
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
1992
2901.9
2901.6
2900.9
2900.4
2900.1
2900.2
2901.0
2903.1
2905.5
2905.9
2904.5
2903.1
1993
2902.1
2901.4
2900.8
2900.3
2900.2
2900.5
2900.7
2900.9
2901.8
2902.4
2902.5
2901.3
1994
2900.4
2900.3
2899.6
2899.2
2898.9
2898.7
2899.2
2899.8
2902.3
2902.2
2901.3
2900.6
1995
2900.2
2899.7
2899.1
2898.2
2898.3
2898.5
2898.7
2899.9
2901.3
2901.7
2901.9
2901.2
1996
2900.3
2899.7
2899.4
2898.8
2898.7
2898.5
2899.9
2901.4
2902.4
2902.2
2901.7
2900.8
1997
2900.1
2899.5
2898.9
2898.1
2898.3
2898.1
2898.9
2900.6
2901.6
2901.9
2900.9
2900.3
1998
2899.6
2898.8
2898.2
2897.5
2897.2
2896.9
2896.9
2897.5
2898.5
2899.2
2898.8
2898.3
1999
2897.9
2897.7
2897.2
2896.9
2896.9
2897.3
2897.7
2899.1
2901.3
2902.4
2902.9
2901.6
2000
2900.5
2899.8
2899.2
2898.4
2899.0
2899.5
2899.7
2900.6
2901.4
2901.7
2901.2
2900.3
2001
2899.6
2899.1
2898.5
2897.8
2897.8
2900.0
2900.3
2901.9
2902.4
2902.7
2903.5
2901.9
2002
2900.9
2900.2
2899.5
2898.6
2898.5
2899.4
2899.4
2900.4
2902.1
2902.1
2901.9
2901.5
2003
2900.8
2900.3
2899.5
2898.8
2898.4
2898.3
2899.1
2899.9
2900.5
2901.3
2900.4
2900.1
2004
2899.5
2899.1
2898.4
2897.7
2898.6
2900.1
2900.6
2901.6
2902.8
2903.6
2902.3
2901.2
2005
2897.3
2896.3
2895.0
2893.3
2894.9
2898.7
2899.0
2899.7
2901.4
2902.8
2903.3
2901.8
Source: Irrigation Department, Nyaung Shwe Township, Shan State.
According to the field measurement, water depth of the lake increases about 6
feet in rainy season especially in September and October and water surface area of
lake also expanded. Actually, the changes of water surface area depend upon the
amount of precipitation from the watershed area. Moreover, water surface area is also
related to water level variation. If the water level increased, water surface area will be
extended. The depth of the lake water is varied with seasons as shown in Table 2.5.
In Inle Region, some of the villages experience two types of environment, one
is living on the water in rainy season and another is living on land in summer. As a
110
results of the interview survey, some villagers always make preparing for adaptation
of these flexible conditions.
According to the water level data between 1992 and 2005, the water level is
changed seasonally. In April and May, the water level is the lowest and it increased in
September and October. And it gradually decreased again in of April and May. Figure
2.7 showed the variation of water level in Inle Lake.
Water Level (ft)
2908
2906
1992
2904
1993
1994
2902
1995
2900
1996
1997
2898
1998
1999
2896
2000
2894
2001
2892
2002
2890
2003
2004
2888
2005
2886
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apri
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sept
Oct
Nov
Dec
Months
Figure 2.10 Monthly Mean Water Level Variations in Inle Lake from 1990 to 2005
Source: Irrigation Department, Nyaung Shwe Township
3.4.2. Sedimentation
Soil erosion is the most serious problem in this area. From the result of the
previous documentation, Dr. Nyi Nyi (1976) calculated that the sedimentation to be
about 22 million cu. ft per year and he estimated that Inle Lake will be filled up in the
next 550 years if no dredging were done. According to the Forestry Consultancy
Group (1993), the lake has been silted up at an alarming rate of approximately
623,000 cu.m.per annum.
It was found that there are 29 streams that enter Inle Lake, among them the
biggest streams are Nam Lat Chaung from the north (528 sq miles), Indein Chaung
from the west (312 sq miles), Thandaung or Kalaw Chaung from the west (256 sq
miles) and Yebe Chaung or Necha Chaung from the west (136 sq miles). All these big
streams account for soil erosion and Kalaw (Thandaung) and Indein Chaung formed
the delta formation in the western part of the lake because these streams flow through
the intensive agricultural plains and across the treeless steep mountain slopes.
111
In the western part of the lake, especially in Thamakhan Plain and Heho Basin,
unsystematic ways of shifting, extensive and rotational cultivation reinforced gulley
erosion and sheet erosion that produced silt brought down to the lake via Thangdaung
and Indain Chaung.See in late 2.1
Plate 2.1 Plate 2.1 Soil Erosion, gully Erosion due to cleared forest along the mountain
slope that
silt was brought down to the lake via Streams in Inle Watershed,
reflected in this picture turbidity of water which carry sediment and enter to
lake at the month of Thandaung Stream.
According to the water quality measurement, the turbidity rate is the highest in
Thandaung stream (sample 1) which carries the sediment and deposited them at the
mouth of Thandaung stream, near Myaynigone Village (sample 4). Actually,
Thandaung stream enters into the lake as five tributaries, by forming delta formation;
one is near Myaynigon Village. This process occurs during the raining season when
the surface runoffs accelerates on the mountain slope and carry the suspended solid
that accounted the water for turbidity of the lake and than deposited them. Compare to
Indein Chaung, one of the biggest stream of Inle Lake at the northern part,
Thangdaung Chaung has more turbidity rate because in Indein Chaung has silt
trapping dam. According to this data, Thandaung Chaung has more sedimentation rate
and it may create delta formation of the western part of the lake.
In the northern part of the lake, Nam-lat Chaung which pass through the
Nyaung Shwe Valley that composed of settlement and agriculture land, also carried
sediment and deposited it in the lake. According to the interview survey, at Ywatha
Village (northern part of the lake), the villagers cultivate floating gardens in the last
two decades but the sedimentation gradually silted up and they changed to le
cultivation (paddy cultivation) in stead of floating garden cultivation. The northern
part of the Ywatha village also changed from paddy crop to sugarcane cultivation.
Therefore, it can be seem that the deposition also occur in the northern part of the
lake.
3.4.3. Eutrophication
Etrophication is one of the common processes of the lakes. Generally, the
lakes can be defined as two major types: oligotrophic lake and eutrophic lake.
According to the Oliver S. Owen (1980), the characteristics of oligotrophic and
eutrophic lakes are as follow;
Table 2.6 Trophic Stage of the Lake (Comparison of Oligotrophic and
Eutrophic)
Oligotrophic Lake
Eutrophic Lake
1. Poor in nutrient
1. Rich in nutrient
2. Deep basin
2. Shallow Basin
3. Gravel or sandy bottom
3. Muddy bottom
4. Clear water
4. Turbid water
5. Plankton scarce
5. Plankton abundant
6. Rooted vegetation scarcer
6.Rooted vegetation abundant
7. Cool water
7. Warm water
8. Characteristic fish: lake trout,
8.Characteristic fish: sunfish, yellow
whitefish, ciscoes
perch, carp, bullheads
Source: Oliver S. Owen (1985), Natural Resource Conservation: An Ecological Approach.
113
Trophic lakes occurred due to two processes: natural eutrophication and

cultural eutrophication. Natural eutrophication occurred when plant and animals died
and decomposed at the bottom of the lake and cultural eutrophication occurred
because of human activities.
Similarly, in Inle Lake, eutrophication is one of the important influencing
factors of the lake. The stages of trophic level depend upon the changes of water
quality. In the watershed area of Inle Lake, there were intensive agriculture lands,
forests and settlement areas. Thus, the lake will receive nutrient from the watershed
area and it became eutrophication. The most affective nutrient of nitrogen and
phosphorus are mainly derived from fertilizer and detergents. Nutrients input came
from several sources and it concentration is algae propagation and explode rooted
vegetation such as weed, tall grass.
Plate 2.2 Plate 2.2 Water Hyacinth, Rooted Weed, Tall Grass and Marsh Land
Propagation are one of characteristic of Eutrophication from the affect of
nitrogen and phosphate in the water, these plates represent the propagation of
water hyacinth, marsh land etc are everywhere in Inle Lake
Furthermore, Inle Lake obtained nutrients directly from floating gardens,

domestic effluents of human sewage, and phosphorus detergent as well as indirectly
from the watershed area. As observed in water quality result, the nutrients such as
nitrate and phosphorus in Inle Lake are beyond the limit of oligotrophic level and
started toward eutrophication.
Due to the eutrophication, Inle Lake has not only algae but also rooted weed,
tall grass propagation problem and water hyacinth propagation, and sometimes it
interfered with the water quality of the lake as well as the area of the lake when they
exploded. Conversely, these marshland or floating islands were used for the floating
garden cultivation for lake dwellers and the old floating garden after being used
reversed to the marshland. Therefore, this process rotates from marshland to floating
garden cultivation and sometime floating garden to marshland. Between 1990 and
2000, about 5899.97 acres (9.22 sq miles) of marshland changed to floating garden
cultivation, at the same time, about 721.40 acres (1.13 sq miles) of floating garden
reversed to marshland.
Sometime, this process makes the lake shallower when they decomposed at the lake
bottom. As a result from calculation of land cover changes, the marsh land area was
18144.60 acres (28.35 sq miles) in 1990, but it decreased in 2000 to12378.45 acres
(19.34 sq miles) and in 2005 it was 9572.94 acres (14.96 acres) due to the extension
of floating garden cultivation.
3.4.4. Floating Cultivation Extension

One of the unique characteristic of Inle Lake is hydrophonic cultivation
(floating garden cultivation). Besides, tomato cultivation is an important economy of
Inle Lake. This type of cultivation is practiced on the naturally floating island and it
affects the water surface area of Inle Lake in the following ways.
(i). after using the old floating garden islands they are decomposed to the lake
bottom and the lake will be shallower, and
(ii).The extension of floating garden cultivation causes more shrinkage to the
water surface area.
For example: at the mouth of Thangdaung Chaung deposition of sediment
intrudes into the lake area, the floating garden cultivation is also extended into the
water surface area of the lake. The most intensive floating garden area is found in
Kela Village, Myaynigone Village, Kyaysar Myauk Village, Minchaung Village,
115
Yemebin Village, and Kyunegyi Village etc. Most of the villages are situated at the
western part of the lake.
In 1990 the floating garden area was 29254.76 acres (sq miles), and it
increased to 37237.86 acres in 2000 (58.18sq miles) and to 40828.42 acres (63.79 sq
miles) in 2005. Floating garden extension can be see in Plate 2.3.
Plate 2.3 Floating Garden Cultivation is one of the important catch crop in Inle Lake
and tomato production become a vital role in the economy of Inle Lake, these
plates also demonstrate the floating garden cultivation extension in Inle Lake
in Kela Village
3.4.5. Population Growth

Population growth is one of the important factors for environmental changes.
The population of a region plays an important role in the social and economic
development of that region. Inle Watershed area is composed of seven townships
namely: Nyaung Shwe, Kalaw, Taunggyi, Pinglaung, Pindaya, Ywangan and Yatsauk
townships which fall wholly or partially in Inle Watershed area.
Total population of Inle Watershed area is about 805590 in 1990 had increased
to 949322 in 2000. Thus, within one decade, the total population growth rate was
143732. In 2005, total population was 1011084 in Inle Watershed area and its growth
was 61762. The population density in this area was 135.25 per sq mile in 2005. The
population statistic of Inle Watershed is shown in table.2.7 and figure 2.9.
Table 2.7 Statistical data of Population in Inle Watershed Area

Township
Area
(sq.miles)
Kalaw
Nyaung Shwe
Pindaya
Pinglaung
Ywangan
Taunggyi
Yatsauk
Totals
Population
(1990)
553.00
553.0
233.50
1,295.60
1,017.90
1928.23
1874.02
7455.25
Population
(2000)
109851
130058
56691
112609
53627
248246
94508
805590
Population
(2005)
129457
153260
66805
132700
63195
292535
111370
949322
137879
163231
71151
141333
67306
311569
118615
1011084
Density
(sq. miles)
(2005)
249.3
295.1
304.7
64.4
66.1
141.1
0.01
135.62
Source: Immigration and Manpower Department, Taunggyi, Shan State
1200000
Population
1000000
800000
1990
2000
600000
2005
400000
200000
To
ta
l
Ye
tH
sa
uk
Yw
an
ga
n
P
in
la
un
g
P
in
da
ya
S
hw
e
N
ya
un
g
K
al
aw
Ta
un
gg
yi
Townships
Fig 2.11 Statistical Data of Population in Inle Watershed Area
Main economic activity in Inle Lake is agriculture. With the growth in

population, the agriculture is necessary to be extended. In 1990, the agriculture land
was 141797 acres and it increased to 485802.71 acres in 2000. This figure show that
the agriculture extension was increased 393573.61 acres during 15 years. There is a
dense population around the lake especially around the north, south and west margins.
These regions have good fertile soils with favorable climatic condition and easy
access to market, which encourage agriculture extension, especially in western part of
the lake. But this unsystematic way of mountain agriculture causes depletion of forest
and bare ground which accelerates the soil erosion and silting in the lake.
117
5 Summary of Water Surface Area Changes
Plate: 2.4 Agricultural extensions due to population growth, the upper plates show
agricultural extension around the lake margin and the lower plates also
represent agricultural extension near or in the watershed area of Inle Lake
This study emphasized the changes of water surface area. Compare to the
historical documentations from many scholars with their records and their points of
views, the changes of water surface area of 1990, 2000 and 2005 were calculated.
Based on these data, Inle Lake covered a much larger area in ancient times than at
present. And now the area of the lake has been changed from 26 sq miles in 1990 to
21 sq miles in 2000 and it become 20 sq miles in 2005. It is demonstrated that the
water surface of the Inle Lake is decreased to 5 sq miles within one decade.
This
situation
is
influenced
by
climatic
condition,
sedimentation,
eutrophication, floating garden extension and population growth. Actually climatic

condition influences the seasonal water surface area change but there were no great
changes for water surface area within these 15 years. Eutrophication and floating
garden cultivation are alternately causing changes to the surface area vice visa.
Population growth within and around the lake is an important problem. Population
growth rate around the lake is accounted for the extension of agriculture and in
consequences, deforestation that causes sedimentation. See in Plate
Plate 2.4 Population growth related with settlement extension in Inle Lake that cause
water surface area changes, in these plates are in Taungto Village, there are
many houses extended to the lake area
The shallower of water and shrinkage of the water body is due to the
sedimentation and floating garden extension. Therefore, it can conclude that
sedimentation is the most serious problems for water surface area changes.
CHAPTER 3
FACTS AND PERCEPTIONS ON WATER QUALITY AND WATER
SURFACE AREA
3.1. Introduction
Nowadays, everywhere in the world, air and water pollutions, climate
change, soil degradation, ozone depletion, deforestation and ecosystem degradation
by human impact have became global issues. The human capacity to modify the
natural landscape has increased through time, accelerating with exponential growth of
human populations and the resources exploitation innovations associated with the
agrarian and industrial revolutions (1996, David S. Wilkie and John T. Finn.). Some
parts of the earth are entirely damaged and some at alarming rate for human and
ecosystem. Hence, there is a need to understand that the environment is being
degraded and the public awareness of environmental knowledge and education and
participation play a significant role in resolving the conflicts between man and
environment. If the natural environment is entirely damaged, life: animals, plants and
human itself will disappear.
Generally, the people should know their home place and how to gain
sustainable development from their environment that is related to their livelihood.
Also quality and quantity of water is such an important thing for human system
because it is necessary for human affair as well as natural system. In fact, it is also
important than people realize the impact of their activities on the environment.
Inle region, therefore, is one of such zones because of its valuable natural
resources which need protection from the environmental degradation. Local people
who live in Inle region are important actors on this treasure land and their knowledge,
images and perceptions are also important.
The key point of facts and perceptions are to study the local people awareness
of environment, to know the changes of environment especially on water and to
enhance public awareness on environmental education. Similarly, to know the
perceptions of tourists who are from domestic and foreign countries, to study the
perceptions on Inle Lake and to obtain the messages of management for Inle Lake
from their point of view.
120
3.2. Method of the study

The present chapter aims to study about the environmental perceptions of
people with a particular emphasis on water of Inle Lake. It is also intended to suggest
how the environmental perceptions are related to conservation and to point out the
importance of community participation.
To obtain basic data of perceptions on changes of water quality and water
surface area, structured interviews and open talks were conducted with local people
from various villages in the lake and around the lake. The questionnaires were derived
from the pilot study and informal talks. The questionnaires were prepared two times,
tests were also conducted. After the preliminary survey, the relevant questionnaires
were developed. For local people, interviews were conducted for two groups:
structured interview for ancestors (older people) and open talks with governmental
employee:
(1) Structured interview for ancestors was intended to obtain the changes of
environmental situation, ecosystem and their management on water
(Appendix-1)
(2) Open talk interviews with governmental employees is especially done with
office staffs from Forest Department, Agriculture and Irrigation Department,
Education Departments, Agriculture Department, Medical Departments and
Non Government Organizations (NGOs) to know the environmental problems
of Inle Lake and to present management system in this area.
The structured questionnaire emphasized the changes of water in
relation to conditions of environment, ecosystem, management, policies and desire to
conserve the environment. In this study, the difficulty was to choose the villages in
Inle area because there are 446 villages in Nyaung Shwe Township, among them 189
villages are on water (2000, TPDC). It is impossible to observe all villages, because it
takes a long time and is very costly. Therefore the random sampling is the most
suitable for this study. Some villages were chosen by random samplings for both
around the lake and on the water.
Among the villagers 150 samples were used in structured interviews:
98 samples were conducted from villages on the lake and 52 samples were from
villages around the lake's margin. In addition, open talk interviews and informal talks
with governmental employees were carried out to know the environmental problem
and present management system in this area.
121
Furthermore, questionnaires survey was used to obtain the perceptions of

people, who are national and international visitors (Appendix 2). In addition visitors'
perceptions are collected with questionnaires from 25 domestic visitors and 25
tourists.
By studying the results of interviewees and questionnaires, the environment
awareness of local people as well as visitors and their perceptions of environment,
water, ecosystem, principles, conservation method, management and suggestions for
conservation of Inle Lake are carried out.
3.3. Perceptions of local people

Nyaung Shwe Township is composed of Nyaung Shwe Town and 35 village
tracts which comprise of 446 villages. Among them 189 villages are on water and the
rest are on land. In this case, random sampling is considered for both villages on land
and villages on water. Samples are collected from villages on water, namely Indein
Village, Kela Village, Mwebwe Village, Zayatgyi Village, Inbawkkon Village,
Sekkoung Village, Ywama Village, Kyainggan Village, Inya Village and Nampan
Village and for villages on land such as Thandaung Village, Mong Hsauk Village,
Khaungdaing Village, Nyung Shwe, Thale-U Village, Ywatha Village, Thabyebin
Village, Kunnu Village and Ye-U Village were chosen. See in Figure 4.1.
In this study, perception of local people is based on interviews for
various occupation groups. Most of the interviewees are Intha and the main
occupation is agriculture. Structured interviews were conducted from groups of local
people of different status and occupations such as floating garden cultivation (22
persons-14.7 percent), le cultivation or paddy cultivation (21 persons-14
percent),government staffs (18 persons-12 percent), weaving industry (16 persons10.7 percent), gold and silver smith (15 persons-10 percent), black smith (15 persons10 percent), shifting cultivation (11 persons-7.3 percent), fishermen (6 persons-4
percent) and the others are (26 persons-17.3 percent) persons who are medical staff,
educational staff, university students, shopkeepers, retired persons and workers.
122
9630'
9645'
9700'
2100'
2100'
2045'
2045'
#
S
#
S
#
S
#
S
#
S
#
S
#
S
#S
S
#
# S
S
#
2030'
#
S
#
S
#
S
2030'
#
S
#
S
#
S
2015'
#
S
Railwayline
Road
Town
Village
Lakeboundary
Watershed Boundary
9630'
2015'
9645'
10 Miles
9700'
Figure 3.1 Collection Sites of Sample Villages for Perception in Inle Region
Source: Field Observation
Table 3.1 Various Social Classes of Interviewees

Sr
Social Class
Number of Interviewees
On Land
In Water
Floating Garden
22
22
Paddy Cultivation
21
20
Government Staff
18
10
Waving Industry
16
13
Gold and Silver Smith
15
15
Black Smith
15
15
Shifting Cultivation
11
11
Fishing
Others
26
24
150
60
88
Total
Source: Interview survey, 2006
Most of the people are Intha (138 persons- 92 percent); only a few are
Pa-o (5 persons-3.3 percent), Bamar (4 persons-2.7 percent) and Danu (3 persons-2
percent).
17.30%
14.70%
4%
Myanmar,
2.70%
14%
7.30%
Danu, 2%
PaO, 3.30%
10%
12%
10%
10.70%
Floating Garden Cultivation
Paddy Cultivation
Government Staff
Waving Industry
Gold/Silver Smith
Black Smith
Shifting Cultivation
Fishing
92%
Intha
Others
PaO
Myanmar
Danu
Figure 3.2 Occupation Statuses and Nationality of Interviewees

Source: Structured Interview, 2006
The age composition of interviewees can be classified into five groups such as
between 20 and 30 (37 persons-24.7 percent), between 30 and 40 (29 persons-19.3
percent), between 40 and 50 (24 persons-16 percent), between 50 and 60 (24 persons16 percent) and over 60 (17 persons-11.3 percent) respectively. The education status
of the interviewees showed that 56 persons (37.3 percent) were basic education level,
47 persons (31.33 percent) were middle education level, 23 persons (15.3 percent)
were high education level, 4 persons (2.7 percent) were under graduate level and 20
persons (13.3 persons) were of1 post graduate level. Among the interviewees, 61
124
persons (40.66 percent) lived in villages on land and 89 persons (59.33 percent) lived
villages on water.
11.30%
11.30%
2.70%
37.30%
13.30%
24.70%
16%
16%
19.30%
21.30%
Basic Education
High Education
Middle Education
Under Graduate
Post Graduate
between 20 and 30
between 30 and 40
between 50 and 60
over 60
between 40 and 50
Figure 3.3 General Descriptions on Social Conditions of Interviewees

Source: Structured interviews Survey, 2006
In Inle region, the natural environment is being converted rapidly by the

people for agriculture extension, plantation, burning and cutting forest, extraction of
firewood, over fishing and loss of biodiversity, invasion or introduction of non-native
non
species because of population growth. Around the lake, eastern and western parts are
nearly treeless mountainss because of human activities such as agriculture extension,
shifting cultivation by unsystematic mountain cultivation, and cutting forest for
firewood
wood as well as forest fire caused by natural and human activities. As a result of
clearing forest which accelerates surface runoff and soil erosion, silting up of the lake
is going on and it has gradually become shallower and decreases the water holding
capacity.
Furthermore, floating garden cultivation is a distinguishing characteristic of
the Inle Lake and tomato production from the floating garden cultivation is one of the
important cash crops which have an influence upon socio-economic
economic condition of
Intha.
tha. The extension of floating cultivation has an effect the water surface area as well
as water quality. The questions on perceptions of environment are based on these
factors and structured interviews were developed on it. Fortunately, all of the
interviewees
ewees have been living
liv
in their villages since they were born. It is obvious that
they noticed very well about the changes of their environment.
3.3.1. Perceptions on Environment of Inle Lake

Initially, the first question was the perception on the changes of environment
of the Inle Region. As the results of the answers, nearly all of the interviewees, about
99.99 percent replied that the environment has been changed. Most of the perceptions
of environment are based on the factors of forest, agriculture, population and hotels
and restaurants development. Some interviewees perceived that the vegetation around
the lake is cleared (66 percent) but some perceived that there is more vegetation than
before around the lake (26 percent). The reasons for these answers are clearly seen in
Table 3.2.
Table 3.2 Perceptions of Vegetation around the Inle Lake

Perceptions on Vegetation
Less vegetation
Sr
1
Reasons
cutting for firewood
More vegetation
%
42
Reasons
reforestation
The same (not change)

%
by
39
government
2
extension
of
shifting
40
cultivation
prohibition
Reason
government
replant
%
4
after people cutting

0f
government
population growth
weather changes
Source: Structured Interviews Survey, 2006
Furthermore the interviewees assumed that forest is related to agriculture

extension, cutting forest and extraction of firewood. 90 percent of the interviewees
think that the agriculture extension occurred in Inle Region but 4 percent think that
agriculture is less than before. At the same time, about 5.3 percent think that the
agriculture is the same. The perceptions of the interviewees on agriculture are shown
in Table 3.3.
Again, the interviewees noticed the changes of Inle Lake. About 90.6 percent
of interviewees replied that the lake is shallower than before, in contrast, 6.6 percent
replied that the lake is deeper than before, and on the other hand, only 1.3 percent
answered that the lake has not been changed.
Their perceptions are shown as follow;
126
Table 3.3 Perceptions of Agriculture around the Inle Lake

Perceptions on Agriculture
More agriculture
The same
Less agriculture
Sr
Reasons
Reasons
population growth
52
residential
area is
more
(not change)
%
Reasons
no reasons
5.3
increased than agriculture

2
agriculture
extension
27.3
without control
3
economic development
8.6
encouragement of the
2.6
government
5
extend for survival
2.6
Source: Structured interview Survey, 2006
Similarly, all of the interviewees answered that the population has increased
and Inle Region is more developed than before, the most prominent point is hotels and
restaurants appeared and the water is more degraded. In this case, all the interviewees
answered the changes of environment according to their point of views. Indeed, most
of the answers are reliable and logical and they answered that they are concerned with
the changes of environment which somehow, they know that it did changed and it
changed, but they are not aware of the impact of these changes. See in Table
Table 3.4 Perceptions on Water Level of Inle Lake

Perceptions on Lake
Lake is shallower
Sr
The same
Lake is deeper
Reasons
because of sedimentation
74
because of decrease in water
5.3
because of algae growth
because of land sliding by
3.3
Reasons
Reasons
because of dredging
5.3
the same
1.3
because of more rain
1.3
motorboat
5
because of climate change
because of decomposition of
1.3
(not change)
floating island and floating

garden
Source: Structured Interview Survey, 2006
127
3.3.2. Perceptions on Water Quality of Inle Lake

Another study is concerned with the water quality. First, it is necessary to
study the utilization of water in Inle Lake of local people. In this study, among the
interviewees who live in the lake, they replied that 88.6 percent used the water of lake
for domestic purposes, 49 percent is used it for agriculture, 13 percent is used it for
cooking and for drinking, and 6 percent replied is used it for other purposes (for
animal husbandry, for fishing). In this case, domestic use is the most common in Inle
Lake' water and at least for other purposes because some of the interviewees lived a
little far from the lake and they could not use the water of the lake.
5.38%
13%
6%
8.46%
4.61%
9.23%
49%
domestic purpose
88.60%
for agriculture
for cooking
for drinking
65.40%
18.46%
tube w ell
spring
ponds
retention ponds
purif ied w ater
stream
Figure 3.4 Utilization and Drinking Water Purpose of Interviewees

Among those people who live in the water 56 percent drank the lake water in
the past and they believed that the water of Inle Lake is clean and safe at that time. At
present, about 22.7 percent are still drinking the water of the lake. However, 86.6
percent of interviewees answered that they do not drink the water of the lake instead
they get their drinking water from tube wells (65.4 percent), from spring (18.46
percent), from ponds (9.23 percent), from retention ponds (8.46 percent), from
purified drinking water (4.61 percent) and from stream (5.38 percent) respectively.
The purpose as regard drinking water is to know whether they know the water
quality of the lake and it changes. In this case, the interviewees can be divided into
two parts: one is those who live in water and the other is in on the land. Both the
participants on the land and in the water influence by the lake's water directly or
indirectly. Certainly, the interviewees on the land do not drink the lake water, but the
rest are concerned with the water of the lake directly. Among them, nearly all of the
interviewees drink this water in the past but now some do not drink. This condition
represent that they know the changes of water quality but the response is different
among each other.
Table 3.5 Perceptions on Drinking Water

Perceptions on Drinking Water
Drink
Not Drink
Sr.
Reasons for drink
Reasons for not drink
it is safe and clean,
the water from lake is dirty
60
drink after boiling
4.6
because of using pesticide
26
there is no choice.
because of solid waste disposals
7.9
because of domestic sewage
because of doctor told that it is toxic
because of motorboats
1.3
because of animal's waste
1.3
Source: Structured Interviews Survey, 2006
Concerning the problems related with water, all of the interviewees have
knowledge on the water condition of Inle Lake before. They believed that the water
quality has changed because most of the interviewees had drunk the water of Inle
Lake. But at present they do not drink, this mean that they know about the changes of
water quality. Among the interviewees 72 percent replied that the turbidity of Inle
Lake's water is more than before; on the other hand 10 percent of the interviewees
replied that water is cleaner than before. But about 17.3 percent replied that the lake is
clear in summer and dirty in the rainy season. In this case the perception of water is
based on their immediate surrounding conditions.
Table 3.6 Perceptions on Water Quality

Perceptions on Water
more turbidity
clear in summer, turbid
cleaner
in rainy
Sr
Reasons
Reasons
Reasons
lake is shallower
44
people usually clean
no reason
motorboats transportation
26
clean by the government
1.3
due to inflowing water
19.
3
floating garden
2.6
cultivation
5
pesticide
1.3
129
17.3
Most of the interviewees answered that the Inle Lake has also changed; one
reason is the presence of algae or aquatic floating plants in the water of Inle Lake. In
their perceptions, algae or aquatic floating plants is one of the important
characteristics of water in Inle Lake. They answered that the algae changed seasonally
and spatially. Among the interviewees, about 42 percents replied that the algae have
increased more than before in Inle Lake. On the other hand, 50 percent of
interviewees answered that the algae has decreased more than before. But 6 percent of
interviewees answered that there is no changes in the algae community. From their
answers, most of the answers are reliable. The answers of the interviewees on the
aquatic floating or algae are as follow;
Table 3.7 Perceptions on Aquatic Floating Plants of Inle Lake

Perceptions on Aquatic Floating Plants
increased Aquatic plants
Sr
1
decreased aquatic plants
Reasons
naturally propagate
14.5
Reasons
re-used
in
The same
floating
30
garden cultivation
Reasons
re-used
in
garden
when
%
floating
they
growth
2
water level changes
10
people
clean
when
16
they are growing

3
utilization of fertilizer
6.6
in agriculture
4
sedimentation
decreased
in
utilization in animal's
people clean when they
4.6
are propagation
6
food (especially pig)

2
water
0.6
hyacinth population
6
water is dirty
0.6
The next study is based on the water quality in Inle Lake. From the results of
the answers, nearly all of the interviewees (99 percent) think that the water in Inle
Lake is degraded or may have degraded due to many factors. In this case, all of the
interviewees give one or more answers which affect the quality of water and also
answered which one effected degradation to water quality the most. Answers from the
interviewees, the factors that are affected to the degradations of waters in Inle Lake
are as follows;
130
Table 3.8 Perceptions on Water Quality Degradation

Perceptions on Water Quality Degradation
Sr
Reasons for degradation
because
of
floating
%
garden
Most important factors for degradation
84
solid waste disposal
60
cultivation,
2
because of solid waste disposal
64.6
floating garden cultivation
54
because
57.3
sedimentation
10.6
of
motorboats
transportation
4
52.6
10
because of domestic sewage
32.6
domestic sewage
4.7
because of floating aquatic plant
21.3
floating aquatic plant growth
4.7
hotels and restaurants development
growth
7
because of hotels and restaurants
12.6
because of animal wastes
11.3
3.3.3. Perceptions on Water Surface Area of Inle Lake

Indeed, water surface area changes are one of the important problems. Apart
from the natural process, some human activities caused changes in water surface area.
In the western part of the lake, the sedimentation problem occurs as a result of
deforestation that accounted for soil erosion along the steep slope of the mountains
around the lake. Again, floating garden cultivation and other agriculture are
influencing the socio-economic condition of the local people and this is due to the
occurrence of the agricultural extension. And land filling for houses that directly
shifted the land into the lake and houses extension also affected changes of the water
surface area. All these conditions affect the changes of water surface area in Inle
Lake.
As a result of the open talk interviews with the lake dwellers in Inle Region,
there are many ways to disturb the water surface such as extensions of new houses
due to population growth, the propagation of hyacinth population, sedimentation and
extension of floating garden cultivation. Among them sedimentation problem is the
most important one. Concerning with the water surface area, about 97.3 percent of
interviewees replied that the surface area has changed. At the same time, only 2.6
percent of the interviewees replied that the area of the lake has not changed. The
reasons for these answers are shown in Table 3.9.
131
Table 3.9 Perceptions on Water Surface Area of Inle Lake

Perceptions on Water Surface Area of Inle Lake
Surface is smaller
Surface is wider
Sr
Reasons
floating garden extension
84.3
Reasons
cutting tall grass and
No change
%
Reasons
5.3
the
removing water hyacinth

2
population
growth
and
73.9
extension of houses
3
local
people
always
%
same
condition
4.6
remove and water hyacinth
sedimentation
67.8
construction of
Myobye
1.3
the
1.3
Dam
4
marsh land propagation
4.9
dredging
by
government
5
hotels
and
restaurants
3.3
development
6
decrease rainfall
sedimentation
0.8
due
to
0.8
decomposition of floating
0.6
deforestation
8
island and floating garden

Among the interviewees who think that the surface area has changed, about
80.6 percent of interviewees answered that the lake became wider than before. In
contrast, about 12 percent of interviewees answered that the lake is smaller than
before and 7.3 percent answered that the lake's area is the same.
Among them, they answered that the most effective factors on the water
surface area are floating garden extension (42 percent), population growth and
housing extension (33.3 percent), sedimentation (29.7 percent), and others (1.6
percent).
3.3.4. Perceptions on Streams of Inle Lake

In Inle Lake, 29 streams enter the lake and most of the local people
noticed the changes of these streams. Among the answers from the interviewees, 92
percent of interviewees replied that the streams have changed but 8 percent of
interviewees replied that the streams have not changed. Among them, 78 percent
answered that the streams meandering more and 23 percent of interviewees answered
132
12
that the streams are straighter than before. About 79 percent of interviewees replied
that the streams are shallower than before and about 2 percent of interviewees replied
that the streams is deeper than before; about 76 %persons thought that the streams
have more sedimentation and 2 percent of interviewees thought that the streams have
less sedimentation. The answers of the interviewees are as follow;
Table 3.10 Perceptions on Streams of Inle Lake

Perceptions on Streams
Sr
More meander
more straight
erosion caused by rainfall
60
repairing by government
23.3
land sliding by motor-boats
1.3
maintenance by local people
2.6
Besides, about 79 percent of interviewees replied that the streams are

shallower than before and about 2 percent of interviewees replied that the streams is
deeper than before. The reasons of their answers are:

Perceptions on streams
Reason for Shallower
1
more sedimentation than before
solid waste disposal
Reasons for Deeper
77.3
repairing by government
11.3
repairing by local people
1.3
Source: Structured Interview Survey, 2006.
In addition, about 76 % persons of interviewees thought that the streams have

more sedimentation and 2 percent of interviewees thought that the streams have less
sedimentation.
Furthermore, the local people know that the streams are wider because of
more erosion (9.3 percent), are more polluted with solid waste disposal than before
(4 percent) and the local people construct man-made dam in streams during summer
(1.3 percent). Only one interviewee answered that the streams are affected by treeless
mountains because both side of mountains are limestone and it is difficult to replant
on it. It is obvious that the people who live in the Inle Region really noticed that their
environment is changing.
The reasons of their answers are
133

Perceptions on streams
Sr
Reasons for More sedimentation
more
erosion
resulting
from
Reasons for Less sedimentation
76
construction of silt trapping dam
deforestation
2
transportation of motorboats cause

land sliding the edge of stream
heavy rainfall
there is no silt trapping dam
Source: Structured Interview Survey, 2006.
3.3.5. Perceptions on Ecosystems of Inle Lake

Human alteration of the environment and modification of competition has
favored the expansion of some species both numerically and spatially (2000, Andrew
Godie). As Inle region has a long history, there have been many changes and
alteration of ecosystem by human activities as well as naturally. According to the
structured interviews, the local people also have some of the perception of ecosystem;
the people who live in the water know the aquatic flora and fauna as well as those
living on the land noticed some community changes around their environment where
they have been living.
Introduction of nuisance, non native species such as Tilapia and African
Catfish and improper fishing techniques by means of electric shock may lead to loss
of biodiversity of indigenous species and habitat alteration, spraying pesticide for
agricultural purposes, and oil spill from motorboats transportation that may probably
cause the reduction of aquatic life.
3.3.5.1. Perceptions on Fauna

Due to the answers from interviewees, 94.6 percent replied that the animals
have been changed, and at the same time 4 percent replied that there are no changes of
animals' community. Most of the interviewees noticed that some fauna have
disappeared, some have decreased in number and some are newly found in their
environment and they know the reason why these animals have disappeared or
decreased or new species are found.
134
3.3.5.1.1. Perceptions on Disappearance of Fauna

Answers from the interviewees showed that aquatic animals such as otter,
fishes such as fresh water fish, ngayit (Barbus schanicus), ngakhu-fresh catfish
(Clarias batrachus), ngalu (Cirrhina latia), have disappeared. Around the Inle Lake,
some terrestrial animals of tiger, hog deer, muntjac, deer, peafowl and monkey have
also disappeared. Moreover, the interviewees who lived around the lake more noticed
the disappearance of terrestrial animals than the people who lived on the lake.
In this study, interviewees answered that these animals existed a long time
ago, but at present they have totally disappeared. The disappearances of fauna and the
reasons for disappearance are as follow;
Table 3.13 Perceptions on Disappearance of Fauna of Inle Lake

Perceptions on Disappearance of Fauna
Aquatic Animals
Terrestrial animals
Sr
Ot
Ba
Cb
Cl
Cr
Ti
Hd
Mu
De
Pf
Mo
3.2
84.7
84.7
84.7
1.7
2.6
2.6
2.5
2.5
2.0
2.0
Ot = Otter, Ba = Barbus schanicus, Cb = Clarias batrachus, Cl = Cirrhia latia, Cr = Crow, Ti =

Tiger, Hd = Hog Deer, Mu = Munjtic, De= Deer, Pf = Pea fowl, Mo = Monkey
Moreover, the interviewees who lived around the lake noticed the
disappearance of terrestrial animals. Their perceptions of these disappearances of
animals are as follows:
Table 3.14 Perceptions on Disappearance of Aquatic Fauna of Inle Lake

Perceptions on Disappearance of Aquatic Fauna
Otter
Sr
Reasons
Fishes
%
Reasons
people caught and export to China.
7.3
non reproduction
28
non reproduction
decreasing of water level
14
decreasing of tall grass
Tilapia and new fish eat them
10.6
migration
over fishing
135
Table 3.14 Perceptions on Disappearance of Aquatic Fauna of Inle Lake

5
climatic change
1.3
using pesticide by cultivators
4.7
population growth
1.2
do not know why
3.3
0.6
unsystematic way of fishing
3.3
natural condition
0.6
7
8
Distinctly, one of the interviewees answered that the otter disappeared when
water was seriously decreased due to El-Nio.
Table 3.15 Perceptions on Disappearance of Terrestrial Fauna of Inle Lake
Perceptions on Disappearance of Terrestrial Fauna
Crow
Tiger, Hog Deer, Munjtic, Deer, Peafowl,

Monkey
Sr
Reasons for Disappearance
Reasons for Disappearance
eating toxic fish due to pesticide
6.7
population growth
8.7
agriculture extension.
5.3
deforestation
Population growth
4.7
extinction
4.7
naturally
4.7
3.3.5.1.2. Perceptions on Decreasing Fauna

In addition some of the animals in Inle Region such as aquatic animals as well
as terrestrial are decreasing due to the population growth and human activities. The
interviewees noticed that these decreasing animals in their perceptions are:
Table 3.16 Perceptions on Decreasing Fauna of Inle Lake

Perceptions on Decreasing Fauna
Sr
To
Cc
Bs
Cs
Le
Wf
25.3
73.3
73.3
73.3
2.7

To = Tortoise,
Cc = Cyprinus carprio intha,
Bs = Barbus spp,
Cs = Cirrhina latia
Le = Leech
Wf = Waterfoul
From the answers of the interviewees, a few decades ago these animals were
more populated than at present especially, fishes of Ngap-haine (Cyprinus carprio
136
intha), Nga-Khonema (Barbus spp) and Nga-yant (Cirrhina latia) in the water. But,
the interviewees of fisherman answered that fishes in the lake is significantly
decreasing. The reasons for decreasing of these animals are;

Tortoise
Sr
Waterfowl
Reasons
Reasons
people caught and export to China
20.7
using pesticide in agriculture
27.3
environmental change
4.7
local fish are eaten by new fish
17.5
unsystematic way of fishing method
10.7
do not no why
9.3
naturally
4.7
over fishing,
4.7
water level decreasing
inset kill them
0.7
Among these reasons, only one interviewee answered that these fishes died
due to the use of insecticide 5 years ago, since then these fishes have been decreasing.
Their perception are as follow;

Leech
Sr
Waterfowl
Reasons
because of there is no buffalo
2.7
because of naturally
Reasons
because of migration
%
8
3.3.5.1.3. Perceptions on New Species of Animal

In Inle Lake, nearly all the interviewees said that there are new species of
animals especially fish in Inle Lake. These new species of animal are Tilapia, African
Catfish, Hamilton's crap (Cirrhina mrigala) and zinyaw (gull).
137
Table 3.19 Perceptions on New Species of Animal in Inle Lake

Perceptions on New Species of Animals
Tilapia, African Catfish Hamilton's crap
Sr
Gull
Perceptions
Perceptions
government husbandry
55.3
migration
people husbandry
17.3
naturally
6.7
3.3.5.2. Perceptions on Flora

Similarly they have some perception on flora of the lake and around the lake,
74 percent of interviewees replied that the flora such as aquatic plants as well as
vegetation around the lake has been changed, but 26 percent answered that the
vegetation of Inle was not changed. The interviewees perceived that some plants and
vegetation of Inle Lake had disappeared, some were decreasing and some were newly
planted.
3.3.5.2.1. Perceptions on Disappearance Flora in Inle Lake

The interviewees answered about disappearance of flora Inle Lake. These
plants are the native species and they are called by their native name. Therefore, some
of the names are difficult to search for in scientific terms. For the disappearance of
floras in Inle Lake as answered by interviewees are:
Table 2.20 Perceptions on Disappearance Flora in Inle Lake

Perceptions of disappearance Flora
Sr
Lily and Lotus
Malainpin, Myat-kha-tauk,
Kanyutpin, Tainpin
Kanasauk pin
Mawkyapin,
2.7
7.3
22

Kanyutpin = Asparragus officinalis
The reasons for disappearance of these plants are as follow:
138
Table 2.21 Perceptions on Disappearance Flora in Inle Lake

Perceptions on Disappearance of Flora
Lily and Lotus
Sr
1
Malainpin, Myat-kha-tauk,
Kanyutpin, Tainpin
Kanasauk pin
Mawkyapin,
Reasons
Reasons
its fiber was used for
18.
do not no why
making
cleaned by people
1.3
naturally
robe
for
Reasons
2.7
remove and
Buddha
2
water
pollution
(lily
1.3
does not survive in dirty

water)
3.3.5.2.2. Perceptions on Decreasing Flora in Inle Lake

Furthermore, the interviewees also noticed the floras are decreasing around
their surrounding. In this study, some of the interviewees answered that the name of
some kinds of decreasing flora are as follows;
Table 3.22 Perceptions on Decreasing Flora in Inle Lake

Perceptions on Decreasing Flora
Sr
Reed (Kyu and Kaing)
Bay-dar or water hyacinth
Big trees
7.3
2.6
26

Reed (Kyu and Kaing) = Arundo donax, Saccharuna
Benda (water hyacinth) = Eichornia
crassipes
The reasons for the decreasing flora replied by interviewees are as follows:
Table 3.23 Perceptions on Decreasing of Flora in Inle Lake
Perceptions on Decreasing Flora
Reed (Kyu and Kaing)
Sr
Reasons
Bay-dar or water hyacinth

%
Reasons
Big trees
%
Reasons
human cutting
human cutting
6.7
use for animal feed.
5.3
extension as floating island
clearance by government
2.6
139
%
24.7
3.3.5.2.3. Perceptions on New Species of Plants in Inle Lake

New species of Akyawpaungtahtaung, Myinkwaywatkyi (2 percent),
Mawkasutpin, Mawkyapin (4 percent) and new species of algae (2 percent) are found
in Inle Lake and on the land are Japan Padauk, Thitsaint, Kyatsu, and Bawsagaing
(Aurecia) (14.7 percent) which are increasing as answered by interviewees. The
reasons giving by the interviewees are government's plantation project.
3.3.6. Perceptions on Conservation and Management

Concerning the conservation and management method, it can be divided into
two parts: water quality and water surface area. Similarly, the methods are based on
two ways: traditional method and modern method.
3.3.6.1. Perceptions on Traditional Conservation Method of Water Quality

In Inle Lake, there are some traditional ways of conservation method on water
quality related to agriculture aspect. In this study, about 52 percent replied that there
have been traditional methods for management of water quality, but 48 percent
answered that there have never been method for controlling water quality. Therefore,
it can be found that over half of the interviewees knew and conserve the quality of
water.
Table 3.24 Perceptions on Traditional Conservation Method of Water Quality

Perceptions on Traditional Conservation Method of Water Quality
Method of Agriculture
Sr
Reasons
Method on Cleaning Water

%
Reasons
use algae in floating garden cultivation
11.3
removing water hyacinth and algae
40
remove old floating island
5.3
making retention ponds
8.7
clean the floating island
4.7
cleaning solid waste disposal
7.3
cutting tall grass
repairing regularly lake and streams
for good drainage

3.3.6.2. Perceptions on Modern Conservation Method of Water Quality

At present, there are some conservation methods for water quality in Inle
Lake. Although 64 percent replied that there are modern methods for management of
140
water quality, 36 percent answered that there are no modern methods for management
of water quality. Modern conservation methods of water quality are also based on
agriculture aspect and cleaning water aspect. As a result of interviewees' answers,
though most of the interviewees know that the present conservation method cannot be
used to conserve the water quality. The answers of the interviewees are as follow;
Table 3.25 Perceptions on Modern Conservation Method of Water Quality

Perceptions on Modern Conservation Method of Water Quality
Method of Agriculture
Method on Cleaning Water
Sr
Reasons
Reasons
cleaning wastes and creating good drainage
16.7
cleaning and removing hyacinth with
%
54
machine
2
making fence and cultivating within it
6.7
cleaning by government
removing the old floating garden
building systematic sanitation system
1.3
using pesticide systematically
0.7
using alum
0.7
3.3.6.3. Perceptions on Traditional Conservation Method of Water Surface Area

At the same time, there has been some conservation method for water surface
area in Inle Lake. For traditional conservation method of water surface area, 34
percent of interviewees replied that they have traditional methods to control the water
surface area but 66 percent of interviewees replied that there are no traditional
methods to control for water surface area. The traditional methods to control for water
surface area are:
Table 3.26 Perceptions on Traditional Conservation Method of Water Surface
Area
Perceptions on Traditional Conservation Method of Water Surface Area
Sr
Reasons
dredging silt when water dried up
14
removing algae, tall grass and hyacinth
12
removing the floating island
7.3
building man-made dam
7.3
141
3.3.6.4. Perceptions on Modern Conservation Method of Water Surface Area

Furthermore, about 34 percent of the interviewees said that the local people
have modern methods to control for water surface area but 66 percent of interviewees
replied that there are no modern methods to control water surface area.
Table 3.27 Perceptions on Modern Conservation Method of Water Surface Area

Perceptions on Modern Conservation Method of Water Surface Area
Sr
Reasons for Conservation Method for Water Surface Area
dredging silt when water dried up with machine
20
controlling silting from the old floating garden
6.7
conservation practice by government
Building small dam to trap the sedimentation
reforesting around the lake
making frame or fence to control propagation of hyacinth
In this case, some of the local people have traditional method as well as
modern method to control water quality as much as possible but the percentage of
these interviewees is very low. It shows that they have not many ideas about how to
conserve the water surface area than the water quality.
3.3.7. Perceptions on Conservation Policies and Rules

In Inle Lake, there are some policies or disciplines to conserve the lake by
government and authorities. In this case, about 84.7 percent of interviewees know
about the government policies and the local rules on water quality of the lake but only
15.3 percent of interviewees do not know about it. They know the policies such as:
Table 3.28 Perceptions on Rules and Policies of Water Quality
Perceptions on Policies and Rules of Water Quality
Government Policies
Sr
Reasons
Local Rules
%
Reasons
not to put the rubbish to the lake
78
not to put the rubbish into the lake
46
to remove the water hyacinth wherever
24.7
to clean surrounding area every
17.3
you see
3
to build systematic sanitation system
month
1.3
142
Among the interviewees, 18 percent replied that these policies and rules are
enough for conservation but 74.7 percent of interviewees think that these are not
enough conservation.
Again, there are some policies and rules to conserve Inle water surface area by
the government and local rules. For these conservation rules on water surface area,
about 71.3 percent of interviewees know that the government policies on water
surface area of the lake but about 28.7 percent of interviewees do not know these
policies and rules. The interviewees know about the policies and rules are:
Table 3.29 Perceptions on Rules and Policies of Water Surface Area

Perceptions on Policies and Rules of Water Surface Area
Government Policies
Sr
1
Local Rules
Reasons
not
to
extend
the
floating
%
garden
Reasons
44
not to extend the floating garden
35.3
27.3
not to extend the houses beyond the
24.7
cultivation
2
not to extend the houses beyond the

limitation
to remove the water hyacinth and tall
limitation
22.7
grass
4
to plant forest around the lake
to remove the water hyacinth and tall
17.3
grass
8.7
to replant forest around the lake
53
Among the interviewees, 15.3 percent replied that all these policies are enough
to conserve the water surface area of the lake and 52.7 percent replied that these
policies are not enough to conserve the water surface area of the lake.
3.3.8. Opinions to Conserve on Inle Lake's Environ
In this environmental situation, all of the local people have some opinions to
conserve the water quality and water surface area of Inle Lake and they give some
suggestions to conserve the water quality as well as water surface area. In this study,
all of the interviewees give at least two or more suggestions. Some suggestions given
by the interviewees on water quality given by the interviewee are:
143
Table 3.30 Opinions and Suggestions on Conservation of Water Quality

Suggestions on Conservation of Water Quality
Sr
Suggestions
everybody should keep solid waste disposal systematically
42.7
not to put the waste into the water
42.7
to obey every disciplines and policies
31.3
government should restrict and reinforced the policies more
10
more knowledge should be given to the agriculturalists
7.3
should search for the ways to reduce pesticide
7.3
should remove and clean the old floating islands
should always control and conserve the lake
5.3
should keep more systematically sanitation system
10
should solve the problem of oil spill from motor-boat
On the other hand, they also desire to conserve the water surface area of Inle
Lake. They gave some suggestions as follows:
Table 3.31 Opinions and Suggestions on Conservation of Water Surface Area

Suggestions on Conservation of Water Quality
Sr
Suggestions
to build more dams which trap silting
24
not to extend the floating garden cultivation
23.3
not to extend the houses beyond the limitation
17.3
to dig sediment when water dried up
17.3
to reforest around the lake
7.3
to remove the old floating island
6.7
government should sustain the lake
6.7
should exercise with modern machines
6.7
should not to extend hotels and restaurants in the lake
3.4. Perceptions of Visitors

Inle Lake is famous for its distinguished aesthetic beauty, interesting customs
and tradition of lake dwellers, variety of natural ecosystem and famous PhaungdawOo Buddha Images are attraction for tourists who are from domestic and foreign
countries. It is one of the popular tourists zone. As to the development of tourists
144
industries, the environmental condition was changed, e.g. development of hotels and
restaurants, increasing of motorboats. From these conditions; perceptions of visitors
are also important for conservation of Inle Lake.
In this study, therefore, perceptions of visitors were divided into two types;
one is domestic visitors and other is tourists. Questionnaires survey method was used
for this study and 25 questionnaires were distributed respectively. In this case, visitors
arrived for various places and for various purposes to Inle Lake. It is necessary to
study how they know about the environ Inle Lake and which is important for
conservation for this region from their point of view.
3.4.1. Perceptions of Domestic Visitors

The perceptions of domestic visitors were obtained from questionnaires
survey. Most of the respondents are 6 tourists' guides (24 percent), 5 government staff
(20 percent), 4 merchant (16 percent), 3 company staffs (12 percent), 1 engineer and 1
university student (4 percent). They are 9 Myanmar national (36 percent), and 5 Shan
and 5 Intha (20 percent), 1 Pa-O (4 percent), 1 Danu (4 percent) and 1 Taungyo (4
percent) respectively. Besides, there are 6 males (24 percent) and 19 females (76
percent). The age composition of respondents are 14 persons (56 percent) fell in age
between 20 and 30, 6 persons (24 percent) fell in age between 30 and 40 years and 3
persons (6 percent) are fell in age between 40 and 50 years. The education status of
the respondents showed that 6 persons (24 percent) were undergraduates and 19
persons (76 percent) were post graduate level.
Occupation Status of Respondents

Engineer
5%
Company
Staff
15%
Marchant
20%
University
Student
5%
Nationality of Respondents
Danu
8%
Tourists
Guides
30%
Taungyo
8%
Myanmar
36%
PaO
8%
Intha
20%
Governmen
t Staff
25%
Shan
20%
Figure 3.5 General Descriptions of Social Condition of Respondents
145
betw : 4050
7%
betw : 3040
28%
undergrate
24%
post
graduate
76%
betw : 2030
65%
Figure 3.6 Educations and Age Composition of Respondents

Source: Questionnaires Survey, 2006
Nearly all of the respondents, about 96 percent had visited Inle Lake before.
Among them, 44 percent have visited many times before. About 36 percent have
visited many times and have been there before 1990, about 12 percent have visited
there between 1990 and 2000 and 4 percent has been there after 2000. Therefore, most
of the respondents noticed the changes of environment of Inle Lake.
3.4.1.1. Perceptions on Changes of Inle Lake

The respondents, who have arrived to Inle Lake, noticed the environmental
changes of Inle Lake. Their observations are as follow:
Table 3.32 Perceptions on Environmental Changes of Respondents

Perceptions on Environmental Changes
In the past
At present
water was cleaner than before
64
the water is more turbid
14
the lake was deeper than before
84
shallower than before
more floating aquatic plants
10
less floating aquatic plants
24
population is dense
40
population is sparse
has more motor boats
12
less motor boats
more agriculture
52
less agriculture
24
The respondents visited Inle Lake for various purposes. Similarly, their
interests on Inle Lake are different. Most of the respondents replied that their interest
on Inle Lake are two or more attractive. Answers from the respondents showed, their
interest to Inle Lake as follow:
146
Table 3.33 Respondents Interest on Inle Lake

Interest to Inle Lake
Purposes of Visiting
Sr
1
Most attractive one
Reasons
because
of
interest
%
in
Reasons
beautiful
64
Pilgrimage
28
because of interest in custom and
60
custom and tradition of Intha nationality
28
scenery
2
tradition of Intha nationality

3
because of interest in advertisement
60
natural environment and ecosystems
24
for pilgrimage
60
Recreation
for recreation
52
beautiful scenery
for job
20
job and study
for study and research
12
to visit relatives
Source: Questionnaire Survey, 2006
3.4.1.2. Perceptions on Water Quality

Furthermore, the respondents who visited Inle Lake noticed the quality of
water. About 52 percent of respondents thought that the water of Inle Lake is still
clean but 40 percent of respondents thought that the water of Inle Lake is degraded.
Only 12 percent thought that the water of Inle Lake is clean in some part and
degraded in other parts.
Table 3.34 Perceptions on Water Quality of Respondents
clean
Degraded
clear in some part,

degraded in some part
Sr
Reasons
Reasons
Inle Lake is open type
20
solid waste disposals
56
people clean the water
52
people still use it
floating cultivation
48
can see the deepest part
population growth
40
aquatic plant growth
28
hotels/restaurants growth
28
wastes
20
and
silt
from
streams
hand weaving industries
domestic sewage
147
Reasons
no reason
%
12
The most effective factors to water quality degradation is solid waste disposals
(16 percent), population growth (20 percents), domestic sewage (8 percent), motor
boats transportation (16 percent), increase of hotels and restaurants (8 percent) and
floating garden cultivation (4 percent).
3.4.1.3. Perceptions on Water Surface Area

Answers from the respondents, about 80 percent of the respondents thought
that the Inle Lake will be shallower; at the same time about 12 percent of respondents
thought that the lake will not be shallower.
Table 3.35 Perceptions on Water Surface Area of Respondent

Perceptions on Water surface Area
will be shallower
Sr
will not be shallower
Reasons
Reasons
no reasons
12
sedimentation
72
population growth
60
60
aquatic plants
12
of land by manmade directly
12
Among the respondents, some replied that the lake will be shallower. They
replied that the most important factors affecting are sedimentation (48 percent),
floating garden cultivation (24 percent), population growth (20 percent), algae growth
and manmade land (4 percent) respectively.
3.4.1.4. Perceptions on Environment

As regard the environ of Inle Lake, 21 persons of respondent think it is
degraded and some of the conditions are needed for the conservation of Inle Lake but
16 percent of respondents thought that the environment of Inle Lake is not degraded.
The respondents thought that the environmental degradations showed the following
reasons:
148
Table 3.36 Perceptions on Environment of Inle Lake of Respondents

Degraded
Sr
No Degraded
Reasons
lack of tree
20
population growth
20
there is many solid waste disposal
12
cutting forest by the local people
Reasons
government can still conserve
%
16
around the lake

5
floating garden extension
standing sign board around the lake
3.4.1.5. Perceptions on Conservation of Inle Lake's Environ

Respondents think that the environment is degraded. Therefore, the
respondents thought that the environment of Inle Lake is necessary to conserve.
Among the respondents, about 96 percent of respondents thought that the lake should
be conserved because the environment is degraded. But only 4 percent of respondent
thought that the lake stills does not need to be conserve.
Table 3.37 Perceptions on Conservation of Inle's Environ
Perceptions on Conservation
Needed for Conservation
Sr
No needed for Conservation
Reasons
Sedimentation
20
lack of trees
16
solid waste disposals especially plastic
16
shifting cultivation around the lake
12
Inle Lake is famous tourists zone
12
aquatic
plants
and
water
hyacinth
propagation
7
hotels and restaurants development
motor boats transportation
some part of the lake can now be walked on
10
everyone concern with the environment
11
if lake will not be conserved, it will

disappear
12
before the entire degradation
149
Reasons
still clean and green around the lake
%
4
3.4.1.6. Opinions and Suggestions on Conservation of Inle Lake's Environ

Concerning conservation, all of the respondents suggested to conserve the
environment. These suggestions are:
Table 3.38 Opinions and Suggestions on Conservation of Inle Lake

Suggestions on Conservation of Inle Lake
Sr
Suggestions
to manage the solid waste disposal
48
to remove the aquatic plants and water hyacinth
28
to limit hotels and restaurants in the lake
20
to limit floating garden
16
to replant tree around the lake
to control the sedimentation
to keep more systematically sanitation system
to promote more attractive place for tourists
to sustain environmental degradation
10
to conserve water resource for hydroelectric power plants
4.3.2. Perceptions of Tourists

In this study, perceptions of tourists is one of the consideration factors on
environment of Inle Lake because Inle Lake area is popular for it natural beauty,
unique culture and livelihood, etc which are attractive to many tourists. Therefore,
many of the tourists visit Inle Lake and it has become one of the important tourist
zones.
In this case, the questionnaires survey was conducted to 25 tourists. They are
5 persons (20 percent) from France, 5 persons (20 percent) from Germany, 3 persons
(12 percent) from Australia, 2 persons (8 percent) from Japan, 2 persons (8 percent)
from Canada, 1 person (4 percent) from England, 1 person (4 percent)from USA, 1
person (4 percent) from Mexico, 1 persons (4 percent) from Belgium, 1 person (4
percent) from Singapore, 1 person (4 percent) from Thailand, 1 persons (4 percent)
from Switzerland and 1 person (4 percent) from Italy. Among them, there are 13
persons (52 percent) of male and 12 persons (48 percent) female.
150
4%
4%4%4%
4%
4%
4%
4%
8%
4%
4%4%
4%
8%
20%
4%
20%
12%
8%
20%
8%
8%
12%
Eigineer
University Student
Marketing Vice Mananger
Retaired Person
Consultant
Physiotherapist
12%
France
Germany
Japan
Australia
Canada
England
USA
Mexico
Belgium
Italy
Sw itzerland
Singapore
Thailand
12%
Social Worker
Company Staff
Accountant
Marchant
Tourists Guide
Hotel Manger
16%
40%
40%
20%
12%
28%
24%
20%
post Gradute
under Graduate
Others
Betw 20-30
Betw 30-40
Betw 40-50
Betw 50-60
> 60
Figure 3.7 General Descriptions of Social Condition of Tourists

They are 3 engineers (12 percent), 3 social workers (12 percent), 3 university
students (12 percent), 3 company staff (12 percent), 2 marketing vice president (8
percent), 2 accountant (8percent), 2 retired person (8 percent), 1 merchant (4percent),
1 consultant (4 percent), 1 tourists guide (4 percent), 1 physiotherapist (4 percent) and
1 hotel manager (4 percent). Among them 10 persons (40 percent) are post graduates,
5 persons (20 percent) are under-graduate and 10 persons (40 percent) are other kind
of education. The age of the respondents are 5 persons (20 percent) fell in age group
between 20 and 30 years, 7 persons (28 percent) fell in age group between 30 and 40
years, 6 persons (24 percent) fell in age group between 40 and 50 years, 3 persons (12
percent) fell in age group between 50 and 60 years and (4 persons-16 percent) fell in
age group over 60 years.
4.3.2.1. Perceptions on Changes of Environment

Nearly all of the respondents; about 92 percent had never been to Inle Lake
before but only 8 percent had been to there; one visited in 1997 and another visited in
2000. These two respondents replied that at that time they visited in previous years,
the Inle Lake was:
151
Table 3.39 Perceptions on Environmental Changes

Perceptions on Environmental Changes
In the past
At present
water is cleaner
the water is more turbid
the lake is deeper
the lake is shallower
lake is wider
lake is narrower
less agriculture
intensive agriculture
Inle Lake is one of the attractive places of Myanmar. Therefore, tourists come
to Inle Lake for various purposes and their interests on Inle Lake are varied. Most of
the respondents gave two or more answers for this question. Their interests on Inle
Lake are as follow:
Table 3.40 Tourists Interest on Inle Lake

Interest to Inle Lake
Purposes of Visiting
Sr
Reasons
Most attractive one

%
Reasons
beautiful scenery
76
28
custom and tradition of Intha people
36
livelihood of Intha people
28
for recreation
32
fishing method
20
natural environment and ecosystem
16
Indain scenery
16
advertising
16
natural environment and ecosystem
interest in bird watching
hotel and restaurants of Inle Lake
Buddha Statues of Nga-phe-Chaung
handicraft
Paungdaw-Oo Buddha Image
beautiful scenery
leg rowing of Intha people
harmony of natural landscape, people,
boats, villages
3.4.2.2. Perceptions on Water Quality

Concerning with the water quality of Inle Lake, about 48 percent of
respondents think that the water quality is degraded, 28 percent think that the water is
still clean and only one 4 percent replied that he do not know.
152
Table 3.41 Perceptions on Water Quality

clean is Clean
Water is Degraded
Sr
Reasons
Reasons
can look the deepest part
16
because of motorboats
28
local people clean
hotels and restaurants
24
it can be compared with other lake over the
solid waste disposal especially
20
world
plastic bags
the water is not over used
population growth
16
not too polluted
weaving industries
12
Agriculture
goldsmith,
silversmith
and
blacksmith
3.4.2.3. Perceptions on Water Surface Area

The respondents have some of the perceptions on water surface area. About 52
percent of the respondents think that the lake will be shallower and 24 percent think
the lake will not be shallower. Their perceptions on water surface area are:
Table 3.42 Perceptions on Water Surface Area

Perceptions on Water surface Area
Water Surface will be shallower
Sr
Reasons for shallower
Water Surface Area will not be shallower

%
Sedimentation
28
population growth
20
16
aquatic plants growth
12
Reasons for not shallower

no reasons
%
24
Among them, the most important factors are floating garden cultivation (16
percent), population growth (12 percent), algae growth (12 percent), sedimentation (1
percent), lack of tree (4 percent) and tourists (4 percent).
3.4.2.4. Perceptions on Environment
The views of respondents who have never visited in Inle Lake before,
regarding the environment of Inle Lake are as follow:
153
Table 3.43 Perceptions on Environment of Inle Lake

Sr
1
Reasons
water is clean
Reasons
water is not clean
24
Reasons
clean in some-parts but
16
dirty in some part

2
the Inle Lake is shallow
24
the lake is deep
20
deep in some part and
24
shallow in some part

3
agriculture is intensive
48
agriculture is less intensive
in the middle
the aquatic plants is dense
44
the aquatic plants is not
20
is middle
20
sparse in some-where and
24
dense
5
the population is dense
16
the population is sparse
dense in some part

6
many motor boats
36
few motorboats
neither many nor few
20
motorboats
7
many hotels and restaurants
24
few hotel and restaurants
12
neither many nor few
20
Source: Questionnaires Survey, 2006
Rather, the respondents perceived about the environmental conditions. Among

them, about 14 persons of the respondents thought that the environment of Inle Lake
is degraded but 5 persons of the respondents thought that the environment of Inle
Lake is not degraded. Their perceptions of environment are:
Table 3.44 Perceptions on Environment of Inle Lake

Environment is Degraded
Sr
Reasons
Environmental is Not Degraded

%
because of tourists
12
it is no sense to improve to control
Reasons
because there is no visible sign
%
8
population
3.4.1.5. Perceptions on Conservation of Inle Lake's Environ

Some of the respondents thought that the environment of Inle Lake is
degraded; therefore it is necessary to conserve. About 76 percent of respondents
thought that it is very important to control the quality of water in Inle Lake but 4
percent of respondents thought it is not necessary. Moreover, about 18 persons
154
thought that it is important to conserve the lake's environment at the same time 8
percent thought it is not important to conserve the lake's environment
Table 3.45 Perceptions on Conservation of the Environ of Inle Lake

Perceptions on Conservation
Conservation is Needed
Sr
Conservation is Not needed
Reasons
for the health of local people
24
for the health of natural environment
20
for tourists
16
for national treasure
12
for the economy of local people
for people of Inle Lake who depends on
Reasons
the water is still good status
%
4
flora and fauna

7
to prevent pollution
for too much floating aquatic plants
for the lake preservation
10
for the health of ecosystem
11
to preserve for the future
12
to maintain the natural beauty
13
for it will disappeared if not conserve
14
to maintain the natural environment
15
for socio-economic development
16
for national heritage
17
for the lake is very beautiful
18
for the natural beauty
3.4.2.6. Opinions and Suggestions on Conservation of Inle Lake's Environ

Finally, all of the respondents gave some valuable suggestions to conserve and
maintain the environment of Inle Lake. These suggestions are:
155
Table 3.46 Opinions and Suggestions on Conservation of Inle Lake

Suggestions on Conservation of Inle Lake
Sr
Suggestions
should control waste management
40
should remove floating aquatic plants with machine
should control use of fertilizer
should control the size of motor
should limit number of hotels and restaurants
should integrate water resource management
should have balance environmental policies
should control misuse and non benefits
should control and give suggestions to the local people
10
should upgrade environmental education of local people
11
should control waste from industries
12
should have cleaner condition
13
should protect the landscape
In this study, all of the respondents of tourists who visited the Inle Lake
participated and suggested from their point of views.
3.5. Summary of Perceptions on Inle Lake and it Environ

In this study, the perceptions were divided two groups: local peoples'
perceptions and visitors' perceptions. Indeed, these perceptions are based on water
quality and water surface area changes but it is also necessary to consider the
relationship between these two factors: environment, ecosystem and conservation. To
obtain the perceptions, structured interviews and questionnaires survey were
conducted. As results of the survey, the perceptions are different among interviewees
and respondents.
Perceptions of local people represented for various occupations, education,
and age composition and from different villages. In this case, the perception is not
different among the various occupations in local people. But the perceptions of local
people are different in two places. The interviewees from the villages on land have
less perception on water but more perceptions on environment than the interviewees
of the villagers in the water area. Concerning the ecosystem, the interviewees from
156
the villages of the land have knowledge of terrestrial animals and their surrounding
but the interviewees from the villages in the lake have better knowledge on the
aquatic animals and plants.
Similarly, these two groups have different aspects on the view of environment.
The interviewees from the villages of the land have more perceptions on forest,
agriculture and stream conditions and their conservation method and their opinions to
conserve the environments is related to these factors. In contract the interviewees
from the villages of the water were more related to water quality and water surface
area and their conservations method is based on these factors. Most of the
interviewees from the village of the land thought that the people who are from the
villages in the lake are the main actors for degradation of Inle Lake. But the
interviewees think that the degradations of Inle Lake also concerned with the people
who lived around the lake. Nevertheless, opinions and suggestions to conservation is
the same in these two groups.
Among the interviewees, the people of the old age (between 50 and 60 years,
and over 60 years) have more perceptions on environmental changes than the other
age groups. They have much knowledge in ecosystems, and changes of environment
in Inle Lake. On the other hand, the young groups (between 20 and 30 years and
between 30 and 40 years), noticed the degradations of environment and conservation
method than the old age group.
The perceptions of male and female are not significantly different. But, it is
slightly different between educated people and uneducated people on the perceptions
of conservation methods, policies and rules and suggestions for Inle Lake.
Among the interviewees, the perceptions on environment are focused on the
changes of environment and why the environment was changed. At the same time,
they perceived changes in the water quality and water surface area. In this case, they
have more perceptions on water quality than water surface area changes. Some of the
interviewees' shallower lake because this situation is more comfortable for
transportations, in contrasts some of the interviewees especially agriculturalists are
worried about the shallower water of the lake because utilization of water is essential
for agriculture.
Again in ecosystem, most of the interviewees noticed about the fauna than that
of the flora. In the perceptions on conservation method, the interviewees have some
conservation method on water quality and water surface area changes. But their
157
methods are weak to effect on the environment. Besides, nearly all of the interviewees
have knowledge on policies and rules of the government and local authorities but they
do not know why these rules are implemented. In this case, one of the interviewees of
authority in opens talk answered that the conservation methods on Inle Lake could be
practice only by 10 percent and a few percentages of local people obeyed the rules of
conservation but they do not know why these rules are important. Nevertheless, it is
significant that all the interviewees have desire to conserve Inle Lake; they give some
valuable suggestions for conservation.
Perceptions of visitors obtained from questionnaires survey and 50
questionnaires were conducted. In this study, visitors can be divided into two groups:
domestic visitors and tourists. All the domestic visitors arrived to Inle Lake for many
times and they know the changes of Inle Lake. They have some perceptions on water
quality and water surface area changes from their point of view. They can also give
important suggestions for conservation of Inle Lake.
Similarly, tourists have the perceptions on Inle Lake. Some of the tourists
visited the other lake around the world and give some of the comparative information
for Inle Lake. As a result of the answers of the tourists, most of the respondents have
more perceptions of ecosystem than other participants. Although, most of the tourists
visited Inle lake for recreation, they participated in questionnaires survey on
conservation of Inle Lake's environ and give valuable suggestions.
158
CONCLUSION AND FINDINGS

In this research, there are three main perspectives on Inle Lake: water quality
aspect, water surface area changes aspect and people participations aspect.
In Water Quality aspect, the basic perspective was emphasized on seasonal
and spatial change. According to the result of measurement of water quality, there
were no significant seasonal changes except turbidity, COD and Total Coliform
because the water in Inle Lake is open type. The quality of water in Inle Lake is
slightly varied in Dissolved Oxygen and Turbidity. Dissolved Oxygen varied
depending on algae weed bed condition. Generally, if there is dense algae weed bed,
Dissolved Oxygen will be low, and if there is thin algae weed bed or there is no algae
weed bed, Dissolved Oxygen will be high. Turbidity also varied spatially. It was the
highest in Thandaung Stream but the value of samples from other places were
different from Thandaung Stream. These values slightly varied between water column
such as surface layer, middle layer and deepest layer.
The assessment of water quality showed that some of the water quality
variables such as Conductivity, COD and Total Coliform were beyond the limit of
WHO drinking water quality standard. But remaining variables are suitable for
portable water. For some parameters especially Total Coliform varied significantly
although there have many domestic effluents. It is due to natural purified system of
water hyacinth and aquatic floating plants. Total Coliform was beyond the limit of
WHO drinking water standard and it is impossible to drink it. According to the
structured interview survey, some of the local residents still drink the water of the Inle
Lake. Therefore, if they drink the water of the lake, it should be boiled or purified it
for the health of local people.
As a result of the present water quality assessment, the value of nutrient of
nitrate and phosphate indicated that Inle Lake is in the initial phase of eutrophication.
Eutrophic lake will interfere to the aquatic animals if it is not controlled especially in
agriculture. Furthermore, using pesticide in agriculture will be harmful to the health of
people through the process of local food chain.
Moreover, there are some relationships between water quality parameters such
as TDS and COD and alkalinity; temperature and Total Coliform; Turbidity and
Conductivity. It is significant that the relationship between water quality variables
159
was mostly found in the middle layer (b layer). But some variable such as turbidity is
necessary to take more sample sites for statistical analysis. Therefore, it is necessary
to assess more precisely for water quality degradation and to monitor water quality.
According to the measurement of water quality variables, the most important
threat to Inle Lake is sedimentation. In raining time, the turbidity rate was very high
in the mouth of streams especially in western part. Therefore, the delta formation will
increased from the western part of the lake to the east and the lake will shrink more
and become shallower.
The second aspect of water surface area changes is divided into two parts: one
is long term changes and another is seasonal changes. In the long term changes, the
surface area was change was 5 square miles within 15 years from 1990 to 2005. In the
seasonal changes, the measurement is based upon the calculation of water level data
and GIS technique. But it is necessary to obtain field measurement for more detailed
and valid data of seasonal changes.
Water surface area changes were directly influenced by the extensions of
houses due to population growth, extension of floating garden cultivation,
sedimentation and marshland propagation. Moreover, water surface is also related to
land cover changes. Around the Inle Lake or the watershed area of the natural Inle
Lake, vegetation was converted to agriculture extension by cutting and burning forest
as a result of population growth. In the rainy season, soil erosion accelerates on these
treeless mountain slopes and brought sediment down into the Inle Lake and the lake
become shallower.
According to the water quality data, the turbidity rate is very high in the
western part of the lake. It is found that the delta formation will be increased in the
western part of the lake and floating garden extension will also be shifted to the inner
part of the lake. At the same time, the sedimentation problem occurred at the northern
part of the lake. To control the shrinkage of water surface area, it is necessary to limit
the extension of houses and agricultural land and to control the sedimentation
problem.
The last aspect focused upon the participation of people. As a result of the
survey, people perceived the important role play by and environment, ecosystem,
forest and agriculture of Inle Region. Furthermore, the people also knew that water
quality degradation. They perceived that in the past and local people had drunk the
water in Inle Lake but at present they do not drink the water in Inle Lake. Besides, the
160
local people have perceptions on the shrinkage of water surface area of Inle Lake and
they give some of the valuable suggestions for conservation. This means that the
people have some valuable perceptions on environmental conservation but they are
weak to understand why it is important and how to conserve systematically.
At present, Inle Region is one of the priority conservation zone and Irrigation
Department, Agriculture Department, Forest Department and Wetland Wildlife
Sanctuary Department is taking care for the management for conservation. Some
NGOs and UNDP are participating in informal and non-formal activities for
conservation Nevertheless, it is very important that the people participations are
essential actors to control conservation and it is impossible to obtain successful
conservation of this region without participation of the local people. Therefore, it is
necessary to educate the local people who lived in and around the lake for the
conservation of their environment. Consequently, they become aware the
conservation of the lake and to obtain sustainable development of this region. In this
aspect, environmental education is essential for conservation of Inle Lake.
The flow chart in figure 1 represents the effectiveness of conservation on the
water quality and water surface area.
Community Participations on
Environmental Policies and
Guidelines
Environmental
Conservation
Enhancing Awareness &

Knowledge of Environment
Water
Quality
Water Surface
Area
Environment Educations
(formal & informal)
Figure 1 The Effectiveness of Controls on Water Quality and Water Surface

Area
Source: Author,2006
161
From the basic of individual knowledge, action and ethic will lead to
community behavior and more effective and successful conservation to nature. The
results of this study will help the sustainable development of Inle Region.
Suggestions
There are some suggestions for conservation of Inle Region.
For water quality management, it is necessary
To control solid waste disposal system,
To manage the use of fertilizer and pesticide systematically in

agriculture,
To educate to use effective sanitation and sewage system,
For water surface area management, it is better
To apply to use bio-engineering technique to control soil erosion,
To reforest in the watershed area before entirely damaged,
To limit the extension of settlement area and floating garden

cultivation
To implement to manage more proper agricultural method e.g. contour

farming method in the Inle watershed area,
To combine the modern method to control the sedimentation e.g.

building silt trapping dam
To control the negative impact of tourist industry on the environment

of Inle Lake
For community based participation, it is essential
To make regular education system for local people
To educate the participation of local people who lived in the watershed

area of Inle Lake,
To give environmental knowledge through media, public meeting and

talks, mass communication system,
To set up mass media to give essential knowledge on environmental

protection and conservation for the sustainable development of Inle
Lake region.
162

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INTRODUCTIONS

The Rational of the Present Study

Problems and Objectives of the Research

The major objectives of the study are:

Preliminary Survey on Potentiality of Reforestation under Clean Development Mechanism in

To investigate the present status of water quality in Inle Lake

To assess the status of water quality in Inle Lake whether it is beyond

To observe the changes of water surface area in Inle Lake,

To analyze factors which influence the changes of water surface area,

To observe the relationship between water quality and water surface

To study the perceptions of local people and visitors regarding the

To suggest the tendency of water and environmental management in

According to the I.A.E.Bayly and W.D. William (1973), a book of Inland

Furthermore, it is assumed that the deep definition of a lake described in

lakes resting on impervious organically bonded sand-rock in dune depressions, lakes

A very brief general account of water quality is explained by Lo (1986) as

The term perception has many definitions. Actually, studying in perception is

awareness of environmental knowledge and education play a significant role

Reviews of the Previous Works

0.1710 (per liter)

Carbonic Acid (CO3)

Another interesting previous works was done by Ni Ni Moe, (1997), who

An Overview of the Study Area

Physical Environment of Inle Region

0 100 200 Miles

Figure 1 Location Map of the Study Area

Table 1 Physical Characteristics of Inle's Watershed Area

Nyaung Shwe Valley

Kalaw South Mountains

Figure 2 Physical Map of the Study Area

Table 2 Climatic Data of Inle's Watershed Area (1990-2005)

Table 2 Climatic Data of Inle's Watershed Area (1990-2005)

Source: Meteorology and Hydrology Department, Taunggyi

Figure 3 Temperature and Rainfall of Study Area (1990 to 2005)

A general description of soils in Inle Lake watershed belong to the "sub

Lecturer of Botany Department, Rangoon University (1961).

Table 3 Total Population and Density of Inle Watershed Area (2005)

Area (sq. miles)

per sq. miles)

Source: Immigration and Manpower Department, Taunggyi, Shan State.

In 2005, agriculture is the main occupation of Inle area and it is extensively

Rain-fed hill Lowland

Source: CDM (Clean Development Mechanism), 2000

Methods and Techniques

One year round

Water Surface area Changes

GIS Technique (Geomedia

Three Different Times

Local People Perception

Management on Water and Suggestions

Choosing water quality parameters is an important factor to study the

Consideration on the study area

Data Processing and

classification technique by applying TNTSTART Software and the accuracy was

Digitizing and Editing

Extracted with Watershed Boundary

Ground Truth Data

Analysis of Data on GIS

Land Cover Data (1995)

Water Surface Area Changes of these three periods

Figure 6 Flow chart for Determination of Water Surface Area Changes

An interesting aspect of this work is related to the environmental perceptions.

Local People Perception