Water quality assessment of the Parada reservoir, Santiago de Cuba

Abstract

Water quality management in supply sources is a priority given the qualitative deterioration of water resources. The objective of this study was to assess the water quality of the Parada reservoir, Santiago de Cuba, during 2024. Monthly samplings were conducted, analyzing physicochemical and microbiological parameters according to Standard Methods and comparing the results with the NC 1021:2014 standard. For the comprehensive assessment, the Water Quality Index (WQI) based on Brown's model was used, considering variables such as pH, turbidity, BOD5, nitrates, total dissolved solids, and total coliforms. Results indicated that BOD5 was the most critical parameter, with values exceeding the standard throughout the period (6-16 mg/L), classifying the water as contaminated by organic matter. In September, a turbidity peak of 40 NTU was recorded, linked to rainfall runoff events. The application of the WQI allowed for the classification of water quality as Fair throughout the year, with a minimum value of 50,95 in September, placing it at the lower limit of this category. It is concluded that while the reservoir complies with most regulatory limits, the persistent organic load and vulnerability to hydrometeorological events demand systematic monitoring to ensure its sustainable use for population and industrial supply.