Introduction
Nosara, a beautiful town located on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, is internationally recognized as a top tourist destination and the fastest-growing surf town in the world. However, rapid rates of development have raised concerns about water quality, particularly regarding wastewater treatment.
Water Quality Concerns
Residents and visitors have reported observations of foamy, brown, and smelly water, in addition to illnesses following recreational use of coastal waters. In Costa Rica, only 15% of wastewater is treated. This lack of treatment has led to the presence of fecal coliforms, bacteria from human and animal feces, in the water. The contamination is more frequent in the rainy season, when pollution gets washed into the ocean from land.
Efforts to Improve Water Quality
In response to these challenges, the Wildlife Conservation Association’s Water Quality Program has been providing weekly, year-round water quality data to the public and taking action to improve water quality in the area. The program samples four locations weekly throughout the entire year, including three highly used areas of Playa Pelada and Guiones, in addition to the nearby river mouth of Rio Nosara.
The samples are collected and analyzed in a water quality lab established in Playa Guiones, using EPA approved equipment and methods. They test for fecal coliform and enterococcus bacteria, which serve as an indicator of the likelihood of getting sick after swimming.
Results and Future Directions
The program has been monitoring water quality since 2020. In 2023, they carried out 49 weeks of monitoring at four locations. A majority of these tests meet water quality standards. However, there is an increase in non-compliance with these standards, especially in the rainy season and in the Nosara River.
The source of contamination could be anywhere in the whole watershed for Rio Nosara, while smaller, localized estuaries are likely to be contaminating Playa Guiones. In Guiones, the source of contamination is mostly due to improper treatment of wastewater from local residential and commercial development.
Despite the challenges, there is consensus on one overarching community issue: the need for a sustainable development plan. As Nosara continues to grow, it will be crucial to balance development with the preservation of its natural resources and the health of its residents and visitors.
Conclusion
Water quality is a critical issue in Nosara, Costa Rica. While significant challenges remain, efforts are underway to monitor and improve the situation. Through continued vigilance and sustainable development practices, Nosara can ensure the health of its marine ecosystem, its economy, and its people.
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