Temporal Variations of Nutrient Contamination in Yucatan Peninsula Cenotes, 2018-2021

Keywords: Cenote, Nutrient pollution, Yucatan Peninsula, Thermodynamic model
Session Type: Virtual Paper Abstract
Day: Friday
Session Start / End Time: 2/25/2022 08:00 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/25/2022 09:20 AM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 74

Abstract

In the Yucatán Peninsula, sources of nutrient pollution like sewage and runoff affect the major supply of potable water in the area: freshwater aquifers that are exposed to the surface as cenotes. Cenotes serve as important tourist destinations where contaminants can easily enter the aquifer. As local and tourist populations grow, the amount of nutrient pollution from nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) increases. Consumption of clean water and sanitation is fundamental to this population. To maintain good health and sustainable cities and communities, our research will determine how cenotes respond to nutrient input and depth profiles of nitrate, nitrite, ammonium, phosphate. We will compare the calculated equilibrium values based on the measured chemical and physical parameters (pH, total dissolved solids, oxidation-reduction potential, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and major anion/cation concentrations) of the cenotes. In this way, we will build a thermodynamic model that defines if nutrient input is pushing the chemical system out of equilibrium concerning N & P. Our study will focus on three cenotes: one that is primarily used by tourists, another by locals, and one that is not used recreationally. These cenotes will be compared with values from 2018 to 2021, which will help us identify how changes in tourist use due to the pandemic impact on nutrient concentrations. As cenotes are a vital component of the water resources and economy of the Yucatán Peninsula, it is important to determine the potential negative effects on this critical resource because of the tourism that they support.