The significant agricultural development in central Chile, boosted by climate conditions, soil type and infrastructure, has motivated some foreign investors to buy potential landcrops.

In this context, Aquist was requested to analyze water resources availability and quality. This water is being used to irrigate crops in Quilhuica and Baracaldo fields, both located at Maria Pinto district, Metropolitan region.

The following working methodology was defined in order to fulfill the requirement:

• Review and analyze of geological, geomorphological, hydrological and hydrogeological information available in the study area.
• Listing of surface water and groundwater rights.
• Hydrogeological field recognition, water levels measurement, water sampling and in situ physicochemical parameters measurement.
• Water balance and recharge estimation.
• Performing and Analyze of pumping tests.
• Water resource availability estimation.

As a result from this study an estimation of surface flow in field areas was concluded. As to groundwater availability, the aquifer potential was estimated considering well yields, system recharge and aquifer storage.

These results turned into a very useful tool to ponder investments decisions and to ensure the project sustainability.