Abstract

The misunderstanding of hydrogeological processes together with the oversimplification of aquifer conceptual models result in numerous inaccuracies in the management of groundwater resources. In Central Chile (32-36 degrees S), hydrogeological studies have exclusively focused to alluvial aquifers in valleys (similar to 15% of total area) and mountain-front zones remain considered as no-flux boundary conditions. By a topological approach and an analysis of fractures, the hydrogeological potential of the Western Andean Front along the N-S-oriented Pocuro Fault Zone (PFZ) in the Aconcagua Basin were determined. Perennial springs (23) show evidence of groundwater flows into the fractured Principal Cordillera. Topology allows for quantification of the density of connected fractures within the fault zone and its relationship with groundwater circulation. The study results highlight two areas where the density of fractures and connected nodes (Nc) is high (>2.4 km/km(2), 2.5 Nc/km(2)). Both areas are topologically related to the main springs of the PFZ:Termas de Jahuel(discharge similar to 14.0 m(3)/h at 22 degrees C) andTermas El Corazon(discharge similar to 7.2 m(3)/h at 20 degrees C). Outcrop-scale mapping reveals that groundwater outflows from NW-SE fractures, which is consistent with the preferential orientation of the fracture network (N30-60 W) within the PFZ. The results indicate that oblique basement faults are discrete high-permeability structures conducting groundwater across the Western Andean Front from the Principal Cordillera up to adjacent alluvial aquifers (focused recharge). Therefore, the simplistic hydrogeological view of the Western Andean Front (i.e. impervious limit) is partially erroneous.