Gestión integrada de recursos hídricos. Caso de estudio: Evaluación de la calidad de agua de la subcuenca del río Pindo Chico, ubicado en el cantón y provincia de Pastaza.

Abstract

Abstract: The study was conducted in the Pindo Chico River microbasin, in Puyo, Pastaza Province, with the objective of assessing water quality through quantitative physicochemical and microbiological characterization, methods in order to propose strategies for its integrated management. A descriptive and applied research methodology with a quantitative and qualitative approaches, which included monitoring at three control points over three consecutive weeks, morphometric characterization using QGIS, laboratory analyses, and socio-environmental perception surveys. The results showed a progressive degradation of water quality from the upper zone to the lower zone, influenced by anthropogenic activities. The NSF-WQI classified the water quality as regular and several parameters such as BOD₅, oils and greases, and fecal coliforms exceeded the limits established by the TULSMA environmental regulation. The local population confirmed the perception of contamination, attributing it to the lack of adequate sanitation infrastructure. It is recommended to expand the monitoring plan, use higher resolution digital elevation models, apply complementary assessment methodologies, implement wastewater treatment systems, and promote environmental education programs and community participation in Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM).