Abstract

The objective of this work was to establish the descriptive water quality of the Cautin and Imperial rivers which form the Imperial River hydrographie basin in the IX Region of Araucania, Chile. Physicochemical and microbiological evaluations were made at ten sampling stations. Physicochemical parameters measured in these rivers did not exceed the legally established Chilean water criteria. Microbiological testing showed high counts of coliform bacteria at some stations, exceeding water quality criteria for use in direct contact activities as well as for watering fruits and vegetables that develop at ground level. It can be predicted that reductions in river flow volume during dry periods will produce further modifications in this environment, which at present is not regulated by an appropriate integral management plan.