Hydrogeological and isotopic study of groundwater in the Chacras-Huaquillas area (Ecuador)

The study of groundwater resources in the Chacras-Huaquillas area, located in the south of the country near the border with Peru, has been carried out in order to obtain additional information on the origin and dynamics of groundwater, and establish the best strategy for the management of groundwater resources. The study has been based on the hydrochemical and isotopic analysis (18O, 2H, 3H, 14C) of both surface and groundwater. The connection between groundwater in alluvial deposits and rivers has been established, as well as the limited present recharge to the deep aquifers. The dissolution of salts from the matrix of the aquifer and evaporitic minerals have been shown as the major mechanisms of salinization of groundwater. Only the areas close to the river beds show some potential for groundwater exploitation, with and acceptable range of salinity. In some areas, the water quality used for human supply is very poor. (author). 6 refs, 4 figs, 1 tab