Methodology

Abstract

An overview of the methodology is presented; according to the deductive, plausible reasoning, the results are the most plausible hypotheses, not categorical conclusions. The criterion of convergence of evidence from different fields of knowledge was adopted. Concerning the hydrometeorology, the main meteorological phenomena were analyzed, calculating evapotranspiration (potential and actual), as an approach to the water balance . The Comodoro Rivadavia weather station (1921–2010) was used, as it has the reliability, continuity and representativeness recommended by the WMO . Geomorphology , surface geology and soil characterizations were based on the data collected personally or by several authors. Subsurface geology was reconstructed using geological and geophysical well logs . Lithostratigraphic units were translated into hydrolithological units to define the physical component of the geohydrological system. Regarding the mobile component, recharge , circulation , and discharge were analyzed. As to the first process, the net vertical input was estimated, based on a serial water balance , classified rainfall events, and the specific phenomena occurring in arid areas. Circulation and discharge were identified by the potentiometric surface of wells and the construction of an equipotential diagram. The hydrochemical data was processed using the Easy_Quim 5.0 software to convert units to milliequivalents, calculate analysis error, construct specific plots and calculate ion ratios. Having defined the conceptual model and estimated the availability, the socio-economic context was analyzed. Attention was given to oil and gas production , including unconventional HC exploitation and the participation of groundwater, with a focus on conflicts between uses and how to manage them in the context of water governance.