Ra Ximhai (Jan 2016)
ASSESSMENT OF THE QUALITY OF THE WATER OF FOUR JAGÜEYES IN THE STATE PARK “FLOR DEL BOSQUE”, PUEBLA, MEXICO
Abstract
The water supply is currently a problem, given the over-exploitation of groundwater and contamination of surface water, so it is important to find alternative supplies. The rain water harvesting is considered one of the most viable options for the supply of the vital liquid; some of the most utilized systems for this purpose are the jagüeyes. State Park General Lázaro Cárdenas del Río better known as "Flor del Bosque", it is located east of the city of Puebla and listed as Protected Natural Area, this park has jagüeyes which store water from rain. In this research, the main physicochemical and microbiological parameters of water stored in four jagüeyes of “Flor del Bosque” were measured according to Mexican regulations, in order to establish its quality and determine the uses that are given as a watering wooded areas and drinking trough do not represent a risk to the flora and fauna of the park. Composite samples of each jagüey were analyzed, during two dry weather stations and two rainy weather stations between the moths of November 2011 and October 2012. The water of the four jagüeyes has microbiological contamination by helminth eggs, Fasciola hepatica, fecal (180 CFU) and total coliforms (475 CFU), this represents a risk to the health of wildlife; as well as lots of settleable and suspended solids. Since these systems have been installed for watering wooded areas and drinking trough of animals live there, it would be advisable before use be given appropriate treatment, plus it aims to improve its design or construction to be suitable for the intended uses.
