In this master's thesis, we analyzed the basic physical and chemical characteristics of selected watercourses in the Temenica River basin that affect water quality. Measurements were conducted from February 2022 to February 2023 at 13 sampling locations, with samples taken monthly (12 times in total). Based on the results, we analyzed the concentrations of ammonium, nitrate, nitrite, and phosphate ions, as well as oxygen concentration, electrical conductivity, pH value, and water temperature. We compared our results with official monitoring data collected at three locations in the basin between 2008 and 2023. The results show that the most polluted section lies between the settlement of Trebnje and the sinkhole near the village of Grm, where pollutant concentrations were the highest. This area hosts numerous point sources of pollution, particularly the Trebnje municipal wastewater treatment plant and industrial activity. Spring sites such as Zijalo and Prečna showed improved water quality, confirming the mixing of water from less populated karst hinterlands. Key findings of the study confirm the impact of anthropogenic factors—especially households, industry, and agriculture—on water quality in the Temenica basin. Based on the analysis, we recommend additional monitoring and the implementation of measures to improve control over wastewater discharges and reduce agricultural surface runoff.
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