Diagnosis of the stabilization pond and use of wastewater for irrigation

Abstract

The present work was carried out in a facultative stabilization pond with the objective of developing a preliminary diagnosis of the operation for the use of residual water in agricultural irrigation. It was found that the lagoon operates with an efficiency of 45 %, with dead zones at the entrance and an incorrect distribution of the influent. In addition, the maintenance of the lagoon is deficient, although it was observed that it was free of vegetation and weeds. The physical, chemical and biological analysis of the treated water showed that the light penetration was 0.20 m, and the values of fecal coliforms in the influent and effluent exceeded the limits recommended by the World Health Organization for irrigation. of raw food crops. However, it was determined that the effluent can be used for irrigation of cooked food crops, based on the guidelines used in some countries such as Chile, Peru and Bolivia. This indicates a potential for the reuse of wastewater in agriculture. In conclusion, it is necessary to improve the performance of the lagoon and establish plans for maintenance and sludge removal. In addition, more information is needed on the quality of wastewater treated for reuse in agriculture, as well as technical information on wastewater reuse.