Author(s)

JUAN M. FORNÉS, LADY BRAVO-MONTERO, ADRIÁN CALLE-CÓNDOR, GRICELDA HERRERA-FRANCO

Abstract

Supplying water to populations is associated with development. In Latin American (LATAM) countries, many rural areas face water supply problems, and in some cases, the only option is groundwater (GW). Each region and country have its particularities related to its territory, geology, and aquifers. The objective of this study is to analyse GW supply to populated areas by comparing case studies in LATAM, to disseminate experiences, lessons learned and challenges surrounding water supply strategies. The methodology includes: (i) a configuration of the general problems of populated areas using GW; (ii) a comparative matrix of LATAM cases; and (iii) a synthesis of experiences and challenges using the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats approach. This study analysed the experiences of LATAM countries, focusing on aquifers of various types: foothills, coastal, continental, karst and other hydrological characteristics in this environment. GW harvesting techniques require the integration of basin information with its physiography. Geology is strategic for the definition, analysis and exploitation of GW. Water management requires a variety of approaches, integrating technical and ancestral knowledge (e.g., water sowing and harvesting), framed within a socio-environmental relationship, which is key to sustainable development.

Keywords

groundwater, water management, sustainability, water scarcity