Evaluation of the physical-chemical quality of the underground and surface waters in the mining area of Santo Domingo - Chontales

Abstract

This study was carried out to estimate the physical-chemical quality of five water sources, Peñas Blancas and Túnel Azul (groundwater) also El Sardinillo, and  La Estrella and El Salto sites (surface water) in the mining zone of Santo Domingo, Chontales.  Five samplings were carried out along the Artiguas river in winter, from September to December of 2013. The results obtained were compared with national and international standards or guidelines like WQSHC (Water Quality Standard for Human Consumption), WHO (World Health Organization), CCME (Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment), FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) and USEPA(the United States Environmental Protection Agency) according to use of water, drinking water, protection of aquatic life, irrigation and livestock. Also, a numerical value from 0 to 100 water quality for each site through the software CWQI 1.0 was calculated. The water quality indexes to the site of groundwater classify them as excellent for uses of human consumption and agricultural use, the water quality of the Túnel Azul being slightly higher than Peñas Blancas well. El Sardinillo reference site of surface water presents a quality index from fair to good for human consumption, poor to good for protection of aquatic life, and excellent for agricultural use considered in the established norms or criteria. La Estrella and El Salto sites have similar qualities to human consumption and protection of aquatic life from poor to marginal, also fair to excellent for agricultural use according to the considerations of the guide values established in the standards. The estimated physical-chemical quality for superficial water indicates that they cannot be used for human consumption, however, they can be useful for agriculture.