ABSTRACT
Lakes and reservoirs are major resources as these hold about 90% of the world’s surface freshwater and are the key freshwater resources for agriculture, fisheries, domestic, industrial, recreational, landscape entertainment, and energy production. However, these utilizations depend on the desirable water quality that should be based on a well-balanced environment in terms of its physical, chemical, and biological characteristics. Fresh surface water systems, such as rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds, have been severely affected by a multitude of anthropogenic as well as natural disturbances. This damage has caused serious negative impacts on the structures and functions of the entire ecosystem. The lentic surface water quality in reservoirs, lakes, or ponds is severely affected by anthropogenic pollution, and many efforts have already been made to assess and manage their water quality. Information and case studies reviewed in this entry indicate that the lakes and reservoirs are at risk from overexploitation, over enrichment, toxic contamination, and sedimentation. The entry may inspire future environmental and water resource professionals to take necessary actions to mitigate lake and reservoir pollution.
