Pollution of the waters in the Volga River delta with organochlorine pesticide DDT

This article describes the results of a study on DDT content in the watercourses of the Volga River delta. Based on the data from the long-term state environmental monitoring in 1985–2022, DDT concentrations in the water of the investigated region were determined, as well as the main sources and levels of DDT pollution. The associated environmental risks were assessed. All data were processed using standard statistical methods. For each period, a range of DDT concentrations was established, with significant spatial and temporal variations. It was demonstrated that, on average, DDT concentrations in recent decades have remained in compliance with general environmental quality standards. The areas with the highest levels of DDT pollution were identified. The transit runoff was found to be the primary source of DDT pollution. The environmental risk analysis revealed that the impact of DDT pollution in the Volga River delta is of no concern, but systematic monitoring is needed to manage it effectively.