Páramo to Pasture Conversion in a Mountain Watershed: Effects on Water Quality and Quantity

Carlos Matovelle

doi:10.1659/mrd-journal-d-21-00026.1

Abstract

The typical vegetation cover of the Andes in southern Ecuador is composed of grassland wetland ecosystems. These form the basis of the area's hydrology, regulating water flows and supplying water to the lower regions of the basins. This study focuses on the Rircay River subbasin, where the dynamics of human activities have transformed natural ecosystems to alternative land uses, particularly cattle pastures. My study examines the change from native wet grasslands to introduced grasslands for livestock grazing. The research uses cartographic land use and land cover change data from 1990 to 2015. Subsequently, I evaluate the effect of these changes on river flow. Flow is measured at a control point at the exit of the total area. At this point, specific water quality parameters resulting from livestock contamination are measured and related using nonlinear models. The results are conclusive and indicate a marked decrease in river flows and an increase in the concentration of pollutants due to the increased area occupied by livestock pastures.

Highlights

By the year 2055, it is projected that 64% of the world’s population will live in watersheds with water stress and 33% in areas with absolute water scarcity (FAO 2007)
Depending on how it is managed, the highest water consumption could be for pasture irrigation, cleaning, or direct consumption by animals (Schlink et al 2010)
The results show an apparent decrease in water flow related to the change in land use in the study years

Summary

Introduction

By the year 2055, it is projected that 64% of the world’s population will live in watersheds with water stress and 33% in areas with absolute water scarcity (FAO 2007). Most of these areas will be used for livestock production. The impact of livestock on the water sector is not well understood, since water management varies according to location. Depending on how it is managed, the highest water consumption could be for pasture irrigation, cleaning, or direct consumption by animals (Schlink et al 2010). Inadequate management techniques have led to decreased resources, including a loss of quality and quantity of water, soil compaction, and degradation of ecosystems (Walker and Salt 2006)

Objectives

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion