Analysis of Land Use Change and Hydrogeological Parameters in the Andean Semiarid Region of Ecuador

Abstract

Access to freshwater in developing regions remains a significant concern, particularly in arid and semiarid areas with limited annual precipitation. Groundwater, a vital resource in these regions, faces dual threats—climate change and unsustainable exploitation. This study analyzes changes in land use, vegetation cover, and hydrogeological parameters in Catacocha parish, situated in the southern Ecuadorian Andes region. The methodology incorporates the integration of data from the Paltas Municipality, Ministerio del Ambiente, Agua y Transición Ecológica—MAATE—and Instituto Geográfico Militar—IGM. Utilizing GIS tools, vegetation analysis is combined with a comparative assessment of discharge data spanning from 2000 to 2022. The data from the MAATE and IGM play an instrumental role in evaluating alterations in vegetation cover across the years. The study also examines the characteristic curves of the wells and their coefficient of storage. Additionally, it assesses the role of vegetation in facilitating infiltration and explores the potential relationship with precipitation patterns in the study area. In semiarid regions, prioritizing the management of natural vegetation is essential, either through conservation projects or reforestation plans throughout the year. Moreover, population emigration has revitalized land use, reserving specific areas for conservation. The transformation observed in the wells supplying the parish of Catacocha and its vegetation cover from 2000 to 2022 serves as a demonstration of this change. Discharge data remain essential for monitoring variations in well discharge and ensuring a consistent daily supply of potable water.