Port Salut Water Quality & Availability Study

A coastal region of southern Haiti was being considered for tourism development but first needed a solid understanding on the water quality and terrain limitations. Our team conducted field reconnaissance and gathered data on land use, population, precipitation, evapotranspiration, geology, and water use. While the rugged topography presented challenges, we coordinated with local leaders on how to best navigate the limited roadway infrastructure. We used multiple techniques to assess regional water availability and quality, performed and recorded in situ as well as extensive laboratory testing of ions, anions, and metals. A final report assembled all collected data, results, and recommendations so that our client could make informed decisions.

Owner

Unite Technique d’Execution (UTE) – Ministère de l’Economie et des Finances

Additonal Info

Project Highlights:

Our field studies verified geology and identified potential areas for groundwater exploration. Subsequently, geophysical studies were performed using magnetic resonance and electromagnetic resistivity tomography to further evaluate sub-surface conditions at likely aquifers sites.
We conducted a water point survey of existing wells and surface water sources using hand-held tablets and innovative data collection field software.
Numerical surface runoff and aquifers recharge models were applied to develop a baseline condition for future development scenario analysis.
The terrain was characterized by rugged mountains, leading our geologists to cover the area through hiking and the use of four-wheel drive vehicles. The water point survey involves small communities near the top of mountain ranges, for which our technicians used motorcycles and local support. Intensive field coordination was required to complete the study.