The impact of man-made hydrology on the lower stream bed of the Salado River drainage basin (Argentina)

Abstract

Studies on the impact of channels constructed to prevent catastrophes during flooding periods on the hydrology of the lower bed of the Salado River drainage basin (Argentina) were performed as related to total dissolved solids (TDS) and ionic composition. Results indicated that most Salado River discharge (TDS 1.5-7.0 g/l, sodium chloride bicarbonate type) goes into artificial Channel 15. This situation leads to the decrease in Salado River discharge between the beginning of Channel 15 and the river's mouth at Samborombón Bay. Before it reaches Samborombón Bay the river receives the surplus of freshwater coming from a rock shell aquifer, and this makes TDS decrease to 5-6 g/l. The presence of Channel 15 has had a large influence on the ecological and socioeconomic conditions in the region.