**2.4 Data analyses**

Data were analyzed by the statistical tools (SPSS software version 21) and Microsoft excels software. The analysis results of water samples were presented in descriptive texts, tables, and respective graphs for each heavy metal element and other irrigation water quality parameters. The relationship of the variables or heavy metals and other irrigation water quality parameters were tested with correlation analysis. Variations of heavy metals and selected ions between water sampling locations along the river stream were tested with ANOVA. SAR was computed to test the level of existing sodium hazard in the Little Akaki River for irrigation uses.
