Origin, Age, and Flow Path of Groundwater Associated With High‐Mountain Springs in Arid Andean Regions
Understanding groundwater recharge and flow dynamics in arid high‐altitude regions is critical for effective water resource management under increasing climate and land‐use pressures. Spring‐fed systems are hydrologically and ecologically important, yet remain poorly documented globally, and in the arid Andes they are particularly understudied, with available data being scarce. This study aims to evaluate the residence time, recharge characteristics, and hydrochemical evolution of hydrogeological systems associated with springs sustaining wetlands in the arid sector of the Andes, where mountain ranges reach elevations of up to 6700 m a.s.l., within a complex geological‐structural setting. Four spring‐fed wetland systems in Argentina, spanning diverse geological and structural settings, were analysed through the integration of isotopic (δ
18
O, δ
2
H,
3
H), hydrochemical, and structural data. Fieldwork included geological mapping, in situ measurements of pH and electrical conductivity, and water sampling. Laboratory analyses encompassed major ion chemistry and stable isotopes. Hydrochemical facies were determined using Stiff diagrams, and statistical and isotopic methods were applied to assess recharge patterns and groundwater flow. Results indicate that spring waters are predominantly meteoric, reflecting mainly local recharge. Tritium concentrations (4.1–10.8 TU) suggest short residence times (< 15 years). Springs in siliciclastic formations exhibit higher tritium and deuterium excess values, consistent with recent recharge influenced by Atlantic‐sourced moisture. Conversely, springs in volcanic and evaporitic units show lower tritium and higher mineralisation, indicative of water–rock interaction and Pacific moisture influence rather than deep regional flow. Structural features such as faults and fractures strongly control spring discharge locations and flow pathways. By combining isotopic and hydrochemical data with geological context, this study advances understanding of recharge and flow in high‐altitude arid environments. In a broader regional and global perspective, these findings highlight similarities and contrasts with other mountain systems, offering a transferable framework for managing fragile mountain water resources under changing climatic conditions.
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L. Bouchaou, J.L. Michelot, A. Vengosh et al.
Walter W. Immerzeel, Ludovicus P. H. van Beek, Marc F. P. Bierkens
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- Published
- Mar 01, 2026
- Vol/Issue
- 40(3)
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