Improvement of water quality through spring protection using the soil-cement technique in the municipality of Cândido de Abreu, PR

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of spring protection on improving the physical and microbiological quality of water used for supply on rural properties. The study was conducted in the region of Cândido de Abreu, Paraná, with the aim of protecting six springs randomly selected by the Rural Development Institute of Paraná (IDR-PR). Water samples were collected from the six chosen springs both before and approximately 80 days after their protection using the soil-cement technique. The water analysis results revealed several benefits, showing improvements in both physical and microbiological aspects. However, the water quality did not meet the acceptable potability standards for human consumption according to current legislation. Spring protection alone is not sufficient to ensure water quality; additional measures, such as vegetation restoration in compliance with existing regulations, are necessary.