Hydrogeological Characteristic and the Vulnerability Degree of the Aquifers from Municipality of Abaetetuba, Pará - Brazil

Abstract

This study evaluated the quality of groundwater in the municipality of Abaetetuba (PA, Brazil 1°43'46'' S e 48°52'27'' W) based on the hydrogeological characterization and degree of vulnerability of the aquifer system. The municipality of Abaetetuba is practically all supplied by groundwater both by deep tubular wells and shallow pit wells (Amazonian wells), which present potential risk of contamination. Water and soils samples from 20 wells sampled between 2012 and 2016 were used. Physicochemical and microbiological analyzes served as a data base for mapping (GIS). Three hydrogeological domains were identified within the study area: Barreiras Group (predominant), Post-Barrier Sediments and Recent Sediments. Almost all of the samples presented microbiological levels above the MPV defined by the Brazilian legislation for water intended for human consumption. The DRASTIC and GOD vulnerability indexes presented values between 75 and 119 and 0.15 and 0.32 respectively, suggesting areas of 'low' to 'moderately-high' vulnerability. Local sources of pollution by coliforms have been identified due to lack of basic sanitation. Evidence of diffuse sources derived from vehicle washing and lubrication also have been identified. Although the Barreiras Group had deep semi-confined aquifers, a 'state of alert' was suggested for the areas that indicated the presence of fecal coliforms and with a high population density. Isovalues and vulnerability maps suggest areas that require further monitoring. A positive correlation between the DRASTIC Index and TDS in well water was established. The intense exploitation of groundwater especially in areas of great population density may be causing contamination of aquifers.