Survey of Pesticide Distribution in Upper Jordan Basin

A survey was conducted of pesticide distribution in the water ofthe upper Jordan basin, due to the importance of its quality asthe main source of drinking water in Israel.A preliminary survey of pesticide distributers and farmersrevealed intensive use of many pesticides in agriculture. Fourof these were selected as targets for monitoring in the surfacewater of the region, at seven sampling stations. The highestresidue found was of aldicarb and its metabolites, with lowercontent of organophosphate and organochlorine insecticides. Noconcentrations reached the maximum levels permitted by the EPAfor drinking water, but recommendations were made, nonetheless,for continuous monitoring of pesticides in the region.Subsequent monitoring (1993–1997) showed a steady decrease in aldicarb residues.