The Comprehensive Water
Quality Management Plan
for Puerto Rico
-------
The Comprehensive Water
Quality Management Plan
for Puerto Rico
1970-2020
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Letters of Transmittal
Frontispiece
Table of Contents i
List of Figures iv
List of Tables ix
Introductory lnt-1
Preface lnt-1
Acknowledgements lnt-1
Chapter I: Summary 1-1
Introduction 1-1
Objectives 1-1
Water Quality Goals 1-1
Existing Water Quality Situation I-3
Existing Wastewater Treatment System I-4
Projected Wastewater Volumes I-5
Recommendations I-6
Point Sources I-7
Recommended System I-8
Implementation I-8
Plan Revision 1-10
Chapter II: Island Situation 11-1
Physical System "-1
Geology and Topography 11-1
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Climate 11-5
Hydrology 11-9
Oceanography 11-8
Socioeconomic Aspects 11-23
General Discussion 11-23
Population Projections 11-25
Municipal Wastewater Projections 11-27
Water Quality . . 11-48
Standards 11-48
Existing Water Quality 11-49
Estuarifs 11-51
Background Loading M-52
Non-Point Source Pollution 11-54
Point Source Pollution 11-65
Sludge Handling and Disposal 11-70
Operation and Maintenance 11-70
Sugar Mills 11-71
Waterborne Diseases II 74
Wastewater Reuse 11-79
Seaport and Shipping-Related
Pollution II-82
Chapter III: Management Regions 111-1
Regional Delineation 111-1
Alternative Wastewater Management Systems III-2
Fajardo Region W-5
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San Juan Region 111-19
Caguas Region Ill 61
Dorado Region 111-71
Barceioneta Region .111-90
Arecibo Region 111-111
Aguariilla Region 111-126
Mayag'Jez Region . 111-150
Guaydnilta Region 111-175
Ponce Region 111-187
Guayama Region I! 1-203
Hunrwcao Region 111-223
Offshore Islands Region 111-241
Chapter IV: Implementation IV-1
Legislature and Institutional Structure IV-1
Priorities and Phasing IV-4
Financial Plan IV-5
Plan Revision IV-B
Appendix A: Water Quality Standards . A-1
Appendix B: Design Criteria and Cost Estimates B-1
Appendix C: Low Streamf low Estimates C-1
Appendix D: Public Law 92-500; Excerpts D-1
Appendix E: Financial Plan E-1
Appendix F: Public Hearing Statement F-1
Appendix G: Priority List, FY-75 . . G-1
Appendix H: Glossary and Abbreviations . . H-1
References Ref.-1
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LIST OF FIGURES continued
Figure Number Figure
111-22 Water Quality Profile, Rio de la Plata, April 1967 111-81
III-23 Recommended Sewerage System: Dorado Region III-87
III-24 Barceloneta Management Region III-93
III-25 Water Quality Profile, Rio Grande de Manati 111-100
III-26 Water Quality Profile, Rio Cibuco 111-101
111-27 Dissolved Oxygen Prof i I e, Rio Grande de Manati Ill 102
III-28 Dissolved Oxygen Profile, Rio de Manati 111-102
III-29 Water Quality Parameters, Bahia de Barceloneta 111-103
III-30 Recommended Sewerage System: Barceloneta Region 111-109
III-31 Arecibo Management Region 111-114
III-32 Water Quality ProfiIe, Rio Grande de Arecibo 111-118
HI-33 Water Quality Parameters: Puerto de Arecibo Area ltl-119
lfl-34 Recommended Sewerage System: Arecibo Region III-124
111-35 Aguadilla Management Region 111-129
III-36 Water Quality Profile, Rio Guajataca 111-139
III-37 Water Quality Profile, Rio Culebrinas 111-140
111 -38 Water Quality Parameters, Bahia de Aguadilla 111-141
111 - 39 Water Quality Parameters, Isabela Region 111-142
III-40 Aguadilla: Recommended Sewerage System 111-148
IM-41 Mayaguez Management Region 111-153
III-42 Water Quality Profile, Rio Guanajibo 111-161
111-43 Water Quality Profile, Rio Yaguez 111-162
IU-44 Water Quality Profile, Rio Grande de Anasco 111-163
111-45 Water Quality Parameters, Bahia de Mayaguez 111-164
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LIST OF FIGURES continued
Figure Number Figure
II1-46 Water Quality Parameters, Bahia de Boqueron
and Laguna Rinco 111-166
III-47 Water Quality Parameters, La Parguera 111-167
111-48 Recommended Sewerage System: Mayaguez Region 111-173
III-49 Guayanilla Management Region 111-178
lli-50 Water Quality Parameters, Bahie de Guanica 111-182
111-51 Water Quality Parameters, Bahia de Tallaboa 111-183
III-52 Recommended Sewerage System: Guayanilla Region 111-188
III-53 Ponce Management Region 111-192
III-54 Water Quality Profile: Rio'Canasand Rio Matilde 111-198
III-55 Water Quality Parameters, Bahia de Ponce 111-199
III-56 Recommended Sewerage System: Ponce Region III-204
III-57 Guayama Management Region III-208
III-58 Water Quality Profile, Rio Maunabo 111-213
III-59 Water Quality Profile, Rio Grande de Patillas 111-214
III-60 Water Quality Parameters, Guayama-Salinas III-215
111-61 Recommended Sewerage System: Guayama Region 111-221
III-62 Humacao Management Region III-225
III-63 Water Quality Profile, Rio Humacao 111-232
111-64 Water Quality Profile, Rio Santiago 111-233
MI-65 Water Quality Profile, Rio Blanco 111-234
HI-66 Water Quality Parameters, Humacao-Vieques Passage 111-235
111-67 Water Quality Parameters, Bahia de Yabucoa 111-236
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LIST OF FIGURES continued
Figure Number Figure
111-68 Water Quality Parameter, Bahia de Naguabo 111-237
fd-69 Recommended Sewerage System: Humacao Region 111-239
111-70 Offshore Islands Management Region 111-242
111-71 Recommended Sewerage System: Offshore Islands
Region 111-246
111-72 Recommended Sewerage System, Islandwide 111-248
B-1 Annual Cost, Primary Treatment B-4
B-2 Annual Cost, Trickling Filter B-5
B-3 Annual Cost, Activated Sludge B-5
B-4 Land Area Requirements for Treatment Plants B-6
B-5 Pumping Station Construction Cost B-6
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EST ADO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO / OFICINA DEL GOBERNADOR
v AA/CAS/er
MJunta
Woe Calidad
Ambiental
23 de juiio de 1976
Honorable Rafael Hernandez Col6n
Gobernador
Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico
La Fortaleza
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Estimado sefior Gobernador:
Me complace someter a usted el Plan Abarcador para el Mane jo de la Calidad
del Agua en Puerto Rico 1970-2020 (Comprehensive Water Quality Management
Plan for Puerto Rico). Este documento fue preparado en virtud de la Secci6n 3 (c)
de la anterior Ley Federal para el Control de la Contaminaci6n de las Aguas.
Este Plan constituye un acontecimiento singular en Puerto Rico por varias razontb
es el primer intento por el Gobierno de Puerto Rico de crfear conciencia sobre los
problemas de contaminaci6n de las aguas en nuestra Isla; es uno de los primeros
planes de este tipo que se ha preparado a nivel estatal bajo el mandato de la Ley
Federal para el Control de la Contaminaci6n de las Aguas; y es el primer plan
abarcador e integral de calidad de agua y su preservaci6n que se ha producido
por una agencia del Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico.
Inicialmente la elaboraci6n de este Plan fue encomendada a la Autoridad de
Acueductos y Alcantarillados. Posteriormente, sin embargo, la responsabilidad
de desarrollar dicho Plan fue transferida a la Junta d'e Calidad Ambiental el
lro. de julio de 1971, medlante orden ejecutiva al efecto.
En la fase de la preparaci6n del documento, esta Junta solicit6 y obtuvo la cola-
boraci6n ie varias agendas e instrumentalidades gubernamentales en lo referente
a sus St.-ds de competencia. Subsiguientemente, el plan preliminar desarrollado
en consonancia ron los valiosos insumos provistos por dichas entidades, fue
extensamente circulado con el propdsito de lograr la mayor participacidn posible
del sector gubernamental. AdemSs, en vista de la naturaleza del reterido docu-
mento, £ste fue ventilado en vista-: ptiblicas las cuales se c^lebraron los dfas
7 y 8 de febrero de 1974.
Vetendo pot la puren que uittd detee, tn elembmnte que le rod*.
Oficina d* )¦ Junta Avernda Ponce de L«6n 11>50, 4tn Piio / Direcci6n Postal Apsrttdo 11488, Santurca, Puerto Rico 00910 / Tetifono
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Honorable Rafael Hernandez Col6n
23 de julio de 1976
Hoja Nfim. 2
El documento adjunto es de importancia trascendental, pues traza el curso de
los esfuerzos que llevarS a cabo el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico para
controlar la contaminaci6n de las aguas, al igual que todas futuras gestiones
relativas al manejo del recurso agua. El plan en cuest!6n tambi6n ser5 valioso
fuera de los confines de nuestra Isla, ya que es uno de los primeros en su clase
que se someterS a la Agenda Federal para la Protecci6n del Ambiente. Nuestro
Pic n indudablemente servirS de modelo para otras agencias de control de conta-
mi iaci6n que se encuentran actualmente en el proceso de desarrollar planes
sinulares.
A pesar de que la preparaci6n de este documento de por sf es un logro signi-
ficative), en realidad tan s61o constituye la piedra angular de la verdadera meta
que perseguimos: lograr que la calidad de nuestras aguas sea propicia para los
usos especfficos en beneficio de nuestra ciudadanfa. Por tanto, el 6xlto de la
implementaci6n de las medidas encaminadas para lograr esta meta a largo plazo
determinarS cu3n fructuoso fue el considerable esfuerzo dedicado a la prepara-
ci6n del Plan en cuesti6n. Esta Junta ya estci enfrascada en la implementaci6n
de las tareas comprendidas en el Plan que le estamos presentando.
listed frecuentemente se ha expresado con interns respecto a nuestro ambiente,
especlalmente nuestro recurso agua. El documento adjunto respalda esa
directriz.
Cordialmente,
Anexo
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ESTAOO LIBRE ASOCIADO DE PUERTO RICO / OFICINA DEL QOBEHNADOR
AR/PLR/er
Junta
be Calidad
Ambientaf
7 de junio de 197 6
Sr. Carlos M. Jim6nez Barber
Director Ejecutivo
P/C ; Jng, Lorenzo I
Director A so
De : Ing. Pedro Lari
Director Interino
Negociado de MministrariC>n
de Rp^. arses de Ague
As unto : Plan Abarcaaor para el Mane jo de la Calidad
del Agua en Puerto Rico 1970-2020-Proyecto 3(c)
PlSceme someter ante su consideraci6n el Plan Abarcador para el Manejo
de la Calidad del Agua en Puerto Rico 1970-2020 (The Comprehensive
Water Quality Management Plan for Puerto Rico), el cual fue prepara o
en virtud de ld Secci6n 3(c) de la Ley Federal para el Control de la Con-
taminacidn las Aguas original.
Inlcialmente la Autoridad de Acueductos y Alcantarillados tuvo a su cargo
la elaboraci6n del reterido plan. Sin embargo, mediante orden ejecut va
(Boletfn Administrativo Num. 1665), la responsabilidad de llevar a cabo
©ste rumetido fue transferida a la Junta de Calidad Ambiental, e ec vo e
lro. de julio de L971.
El documento se estructur6 de torma tal que permit© la incorporaci6n de
los planes detallados de calidad de agua para cuencas hidrogrfificas espec
ficas que en la actuaiidad se estSn desarrollando. La complementacton
antes mencionada, •.¦onjuntampnte con una actualizaci6n que sq r©3
anualmente, redundarS en que el plan en cuestidn sea relevant© uran e
todo el perfrxio de SO afios para el cual se prepar6.
Como nota de interns, la Agenda Federal para la Proteccttn del/^"t®
ha indicado que el documento adjunto con toda probabili a ser _imliareS)
como modelo por e-;t.idos que h1 presente est^n preparan o p ane
H tna ^ |. ju-,. Velanrto pot ta pureta qug ustf& detoe, en el amDiente que le rodta.
"vfinKis Pon^ Ha ¦ rj.n >. ...
Pjso I Direcci6n Postal. Apartado 11488, Santurca, Puerto Rico00910 I Telifono 725-8140
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-2-
Quiero en este momento hacer reconocimiento de las personas que directa
o indirectamente hlcieron postble la formulaci6n y publicaci6n de este
documento.
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INTRODUCTORY
Preface
The Comprehensive Water Quality Management Plan(WQMP) originated in 1969, when the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico entered into a cooperative program with the United States
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to abate water pollution in Puerto Rico as prescribed
by the Water Pollution Control Act of 1965 (et seq.). The program was cooperative in the
sense that funding was shared by EPA and Puerto Rico, and that while the Commonwealth was
made responsible for developing the plan, EPA provided guidelines* and necessary technical
assistance. The basis for funding was the Federal Grants for Pollution Control legislation, 18C
FR601.32—33.
Activities associated with the WQMP were under the control of the Puerto Rico Aqueduct
and Sewer Authority (PRASA) from their inception until 30 June 1971, during which time an
inventory of municipal and industrial waste discharges was prepared and several interim basin
plans for portions of the island were developed. On 1 July 1971, responsibility for WQMP
preparation was passed on to the newly created Environmental Quality Board (EQB). By June,
1972, the 3(c) Project began full-strength operations. At roughly the same time, work was
proceeding on oceanographic survey (Area of Natural Resources, Department of Public Works)
and on a more detailed Industrial Effluent Census (PRASA), documents on which the 3(c)
Project was to draw for information fatar on.
The 3(c) Project's task was straightforward: compiling data on water quality, sources of
pollution, and abatement techniques, and generating figures which gave a picture of present
and projected water quality management situations in Puerto Rico. The island was divided by
the 3(c) staff into 13 management regions (one encompassing the offshore islands of Culebra
and Vieques) and a series of alternative techniques and an abatement strategy were proposed
for each region. The passage of the Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972 (Public
Law 92—500) committed the states—Puerto Rico among them—to stringent ongoing
requirements for the abatement and final elimination of water pollution of all kinds. The
requierements of the 1965 and 1972 Laws, and the guidelines promulgated by EPA, shaped
the ultimated form of the WQMP.
The WQMP is intended not only to satisfy the Federal requierement for the creation of such
a plan, but to serve as the basis for a Continuing Planning Process to be carried out by EQB. It
•EPA, Water Quality Office, Guidadnei: Watar Quality Planning, Wajnington, D.C., January, 1971.
Int. 1
-------
will serve as a guide to water quality management planning for all the agencies in Puerto Rico
active in this area. In coming month and years, the EQB, through the Continuing Planning
Process, will prepare and update more detailed Water Quality Management Plans for each of
the 13 regions.
\ckuowlcdgt nu m
To acknowledge the assistance and good offices of every person who helped in the creation
of the WQMP is impossible in a brief space. Many specialists and workers from government
agencies and private concerns contributed to the successful completion of the Plan. Therefore,
the acknowledgements which follow are primarily devoted the recognition of agencies.
The assistance of the US Environmental Protection Agency must be mentioned first.
Me Charles Durfor of EPA Region II, New York, was administrator of the Puerto Rico WQMP;
Mr. John Ulschoefer; Mr. John Witkowski, Mr. Rooney, and many others of the EPA Region II
staff gave generously of their time and expertise. The EPA Office for Puerto Rico and the
Virgin Islands, directed by Dr. Donald Washington, has direct responsibility for EPA activities
associated with the preparation of the WQMP. The assistance of Mr. Emilio Escaladas and Mr.
David Guthrie, of EPA—San Juan, must be noted with gratitude
The assistance of Lt. JG James Kuiper Jr., USCG, and Dr. Barnett L. Cline, Tropical Disease
Laboratories, USPHS, with technical advice in their areas of knowledge is hereby
acknowledged.
Among agencies of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and their employees who gave
assistance to the 3(c) Project in the course of creating the WQMP, thanks must be given to the
following
Engineers Pedro F. Mora, Director, Rfos Vargas, Pedrito Perez Arroyo, Rub6n A.
Guzman, Clarence Pressoir, and Enrique Font of the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer
Authority, Planning Area, who originally worked on WQMP and continued to provide
invaluable assistance after the project was transferred to EQB.
- Mr. Boris Oxman of the Puerto Rico Planning Board, for his assistance with the Financial
Study included in WQMP.
- Dr. Emilio Colon and Mr. Jos6 Martinez Laboy of the Puerto Rico Department of Natural
Resources, for their assistance with the Industrial Wastewater Projections.
Int. 2
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- Mr. I'edro Hernandez Vega of the Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, for his far-reaching
general assistance.
- Mr. Cruz Matos, former Executive Director of the EQB, and Mr. Carlos M. Jimenez
Barber, present Executive Director.
- Engineer Rafael Cruz Perez and Engineer Lorenzo R. Iglesias, the former and present
Associate Directors of EQB, respectively.
- Dr. Jos6 Alvarez de Choudens, Chairman of the Board of EQB
- Colonel James Scott, USA, head of the San Juan Office of the US Army Corps of
Engineers
- Mr. Weems Clevenger, head of the San Juan Field Office of the US Environmental
Protection Agency.
- Mr. Frank Wadsworth of the US Forestry Service.
- Mr. Don Jordan of the US Geological Survey.
- Mr. Minas Papadakis, past Director, Office of Water Resources, EQB.
- Mr. Wilfredo Vivoni, past Chairman of the Board, EQB.
- Dr. Antonio Santiago Vdzquez, past Chairman of the Board, EQB.
Employees of the following agencies who assisted the 3(c) Project at various times must
receive our most sincere thanks:
Federal Agencies - US Army Corps of Engineers; US Forest Service, Institute of Tropical
Forestry, US Geological Survey; US Soil Conservation Service.
Commonwealth Agencies - Department of Agriculture; Aqueducts and Sewers Authority;
Department of Health; Department of Natural Resources; Planning Board.
The following is a list of personnel who worked in EQB on the 3(c) Project.
Larry R. Johnston, Director
Int. 3
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John J. Whelan, Director
Dean B. Bogart, Director
Ralph M. Field, Special Consultant to the Executive Director
Maria Margarita Irizarry, Chemical Engineer
Jose Auger Marchand, Economic Planner
Dominique Ratouis, Sanitary Engineer
Armando Gonzdlez Caban, Economic Planner
Isaac Sanchez, Ph. D., Water Chemist
Stepan Bukojensky, Planner
David Fairchild, Planner
Ilia Quinones de Hernandez, Urban Planner
Thom Lee Wharton, Technical Writer-Editor
Eugene Bergquist, Ph. D., Limnologist
Maria Marquez de Sudrez, Statistician
Carlos Ramos, Natural Resources Technician
Ivette Santiago, Natural Resources Technician
Jose Rodriguez, Draftsman
Javier Diaz Normandi'a, Statistical Clerk
Bernardo Cu6tara, Statistical Clerk
Dorianne Kempf Delgado, Secretary
Patricia Beck, Secretary
Amparo Serrano, Secretary
Caridad I. Colon Paoli, Draftsman
Dali Ba I tester, Associate Editor
Pedro Lara Rivas, Chemical Engineer was acting director. Water Quality Planning Division,
between November, 1974 and May, 1976. The present Acting Director is Tomds Rivera,
Natural Resources Specialist. Finally, grateful acknowledgement is made of the efforts of all
those who contributed to the project in the course of its activities.
Int. 4
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Chapter I
Summary
Introduction
During the last 30 years, Puerto Rico's economic and physical growth has been
among the highest in the world. This growth was largely sparked by initiation of a pro-
gram of industrialization which converted the island's economy from an agricultural to
an industrial base. Urban development has occurred rapidly with a lag in required infra-
structure expansion. Water pollution has been a byproduct of this growth surge.
In 1969 the Commonwealth decided on the need for an overall water quality
management plan for Puerto Rico. A cooperative agreement with the Federal Water
Pollution Control Administration (now Environmental Protection Agency) was estab-
lished so that funding was shared by EPA and Puerto Rico. The Commonwealth assumed
responsibility for developing the plan, while EPA provided guidelines and necessary techni-
cal assistance.
Initially, development of the water quality management plan was under control of
the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority fPRASA). On July 1, 1971, responsi-
bility for plan preparation was transferred to the newly created Puerto Rico Environment-
al Quality Board (EQB).
Objectives of the Water Quality Management Plan
The immediate objectives of water quality management planning are:
1. To assure that water quality standards and implementation plans will achieve
in-stream goals; and
2. To maximize the cost effectiveness of investments in pollution abatement and
related actions required to achieve water quality goals.
The long range objectives are to improve and maintain established water quality
standards by periodic updating of adopted plans through the "Continuing Planning Pro-
cess'! Associated with this effort is the need to determine measures that will: control all
sources of pollution and improve management of receiving waters to reduce adverse im-
pacts of wastes; maximize the cost effectiveness of measures needed to achieve this higher
level of water quality management; and relate water quality management more effectively
to all other environmental protection and resource use and management programs.
Water Quality Goals
To restore and maintain the chemical, physical and biological integrity of Puerto
Rico's surface and coastal waters, the following goals are recommended for adoption:
1-1
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1, An interim goal, to be achieved by 1983, which provides for the protection
and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and provides for recreation in and on
the water.
2. An ultimate goal that the discharge of pollutants into Puerto Rico's waters
be eliminated by 1985.
It is imperative that Puerto Rico maintain a high level of water quality. All
surface waters are potential sources of supply and most are now being used for that
purpose to some extent. Additionally, all waters are receiving greater attention as a
recreational resource from island residents and the large tourist industry. Recreational
boating has grown in recent years together with swimming, snorkeling scuba diving,
and other water sports. Although commercial fishing remains at a relatively low level,
it has great potential. Bioluminescent bays of unique natural value are also found in
Puerto Rico.
The foregoing objectives and water quality goals represent the foundations
upon which an island-wide strategy of water quality management has been devised.
This strategy is the result of an extensive planning process which has involved;
Inventory and Analysis
The identification of receiving water bodies; an examination of their physical
characteristics; and an analysis of existing water quality levels.
An inventory and analysis of existing point and non-point sources of pollution.
The projection of future waste water volumes and characteristics based on
demographic and economic forecasts.
An evaluation of the existing system of sewage treatment facilities to handle
both existing and projected waste water discharges, using Commonwealth water
quality standards.
Plan Formulation and Implementation
The Formulation of alternative means for accomodating projected discharges,
and the testing of theses alternatives relative to: water quality standards,
associated costs.
The selection of the preferred alternative and the preparation of a schedule
based on priorities for carrying out the strategy.
An evaluation of means of financing the program.
A recommended program for monitoring and plan revision.
An assessment of the environmental impact of the recommended strategy.
I-2
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Existing Water Quality Situation
Most waters in Puerto Rico have been found in violation of existing water
quality standards to varying degrees. Local water quality problems are caused by
a number of factors, most of which are related to high population density (over
800 persons per square mile), recent industrial growth and natural physical condi-
tions.
Puerto Rico's surface waters radiate outward from a central mountain range
to reach the ocean through a complex system of small rivers. Some 100 rivers and
creeks reach the ocean, but only 7 watersheds have drainage areas of over 100 square
miles. Flows vary greatly and most rivers on the south coast are dry part of the year,
The large number of small rivers having low flows contributes to pollution levels, and
makes the problems difficult and expensive to abate. The waste water itself, whether
from point or non-point sources, when disposed of in water courses, often contributes
a large percentage of total flow. The problem is further complicated in the coastal
regions where salt water wedges often move inland for several miles. Free movement
of the salt wedge is restricted by sand bar formation at the river mouth. Waste depo-
sition in such cases builds up in the stagnant salt water of the river's bottom. During
periods of high flow, these concentrated pollutants are mixed with the fresh water,
sometimes resulting in fish kills.
Available data on river water quality show the following violations:
Dissolved oxygen (DO-mg/1)--75 percent of rivers violate current standards
Biochemical oxygen (BODs-mg/l )--64 percent of rivers violate current standards
Total Conforms (MPN/100 ml-an indicator of pathogenic bacteria)--96 percent
of rivers violate current standards.
Col iform violations are due to a large rural population lacking adequate waste
disposal, inadequate treatment and disinfection at treatment plants, and an increasing
number of dairy farms and pasture land. These same factors also cause widespread
incidence of Schistosoma mansoni (Bilharzia), an organism causing a seriously debili-
tating disease. About 90 per cent of the BOD5 and DO violations are attributable to
discharges from industries and municipal sewage treatment plants.
Suspended solids are a serious problem in streams. Several water supply reser-
voirs are practically useless as a result of sedimentation. Most of this is attributable to
erosion caused by improper farming techniques, as well as by the construction of roads
and buildings. Eutrophication is a problem in some lagoons, Water hyacinths clog some
reservoirs and rivers. Pesticides and fertilizers, on the other hand, have not yet been
detected as presenting a significant pollution problem in Puerto Rico.
1-3
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Coastal waters fare little better than inland waters. For those bays and shore
areas studied, violations were as follows:
DO -- 65 percent violate current standards
BOD5-- 50 percent of areas violate current standards
Total Coliforms -- 88 percent of areas violate current standards
In areas classified as port zones, where the least stringent standards apply, an even
Higher frequency of violations was found. Most of the pollution was directly associated
with river discharges, the discharge of wastes from industries and municipal sewage treat-
ment plants, and municipal raw discharges. Coliform levels were frequently high along
coastal areas where homes exist without proper sewage disposal.
Existing Wastewater Treatment System
The current municipal wastewater treatment system consists of 99 separate systems.
The main towns within the 78 municipios, except for Dewey in Culebra, are served by some
type of system. In addition, smaller package treatment plants, mainly built by private
developers, are found in the major cities.
Of the 99 systems, 6 provide only collection lines and ocean outfalls, with untreated
sewage being discharged into nearshore ocean waters. Community septic tanks provide only
minimal treatment in another 8 towns. Imhoff tanks and primary plants service an additin-
al 23 towns and urbanizations. Sixty-two secondary treatment plants complete the sys-
tem.
Following is the reported capacity and average daily flow through the 84 primary
and secondary plants for the Fiscal Year 1972 (does not include the new 10 mgd Ponce
primary plant):
Number of
Rated (mgd)
Average Daily
Type of Plant Plants
Caoacitv
-Eifiw (mud)
Activated Sludge
8
1.820
1.259
Continous Aeration
2
.280
.219
Trickling filters
49
33.979
24.093
Compact filters
3
.225
.218
Total secondary
systems
~62~
36.344
25.789
Mechanical settling tanks
w/separate digestors
5
25.515
40.332
Imhoff tanks
17
2.073
2.745
Total primary systems
22
27.588
43.077
Totals
84
63.932
68.866
1-4
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With few exceptions, these plants, even the newer ones, will be overloaded by
1980. The Puerto Nuevo primary plant serving San Juan is, at 24 mgd, the largest
plant and represents approximately 40 percent of total island capacity. It now operates
about 150 percent above its rated capacity. Only 14 of the secondary plants have 85
percent efficiency or better for either BOD5 or suspended solids.
In the past, little attention was paid to the location of plants and outfalls with
regard to their pollution consequences. As a result there are many cases in which the
discharge is made into a water body that is unable to adequately dilute and assimilate
the wastes.
In 1970, the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA) provided
sewer collection service for approximately 990,000 persons; 36.5 percent of the total
population and 62 percent of the urban population. By 1972, this number had increased
to about 1,098,000 persons, 39 percent of the estimated population. About 16 percent
of the population used individual septic tanks or cesspools. The .remaining 45 percent
of the population uses latrines, illegal discharges to storm and sanitary sewers, or other
inadequate means of disposal.
Approximately 55 percent of some 2,200 manufacturing firms and 43 percent
of 61,000 commercial establishments are presently connected to a public sewer system.
Most large manufacturing firms dispose of their wastes individually and1 inadequately. The
sugar centrals alone discharge more than 135 mgd during their operating season. Petro-
chemical plants add more than 500 mgd of process and cooling water to rivers and coastal
waters. In general, little control exists over the treatment and discharge of industrial wastes.
Some wastes are discharged into injection wells and sink holes.
Projected Waste Water Volumes
In 1970 Puerto Rico's population was 2.7 million. By 1990 it is estimated to rise
to 3.8 million. Conservative estimates used in this report (assuming zero population growth
beginning in 2020) place the year 2020 population at 5 million. Other projection place the
population at more than 6 million.
Domestic wastewater from the island's urban areas was estimated at 90 mgd in 1970
(52 mgd collected by sewage system. By 1990 this volume will have increased to about
180 mgd and to about 290 mgd by 2020. Commercial and light industrial wastewater out-
put totaled about 70 mgd in 1970 and should reach 115 mgd by 1990 and 155 mgd in
2020. Including process and cooling waters, heavy industries and power plants today pro-
bably discharge more than one billion gallons per day. Future quantities can not be accu-
rately estimated.
The impact of this growth is staggering. Maintaining a high level of quality will
require a major public effort extending over nrmny years, and involving large capital
outlays for the construction of new facilities, and larger budgets for operation and
maintenenee, as well as for planning, monitoring and enforcement.
1-5
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Recommendations
Following are the most important recommendations of the Water Quality Management
Plan
General
To minimize growing water pollution problems, Puerto Rico should adopt a
policy of zero population growth to be attained by the ye.ir 2020.
The existing PRASA sewage treatment and disposal system should be improved
and the collection system expanded to include as much of the populace es economically
practical.
Through consolidation of existing facilities and development of a regional system,
the total number of wastewater treatment plants and wastf> discharges should be reduced
to allow greater supervision and monitoring of waste discharge.
Rural, Agricultural, and other Non-point Source Wastes
Special emphasis must be given to control of pathogenic bacteria, especially
Schistosoma mansoni (Bilharziah
Urban and rural communities should be connected to the PRASA system whenever
possible. A cost/benefit analysis must be established to determine when it is best
to connect rural communities to an existing system, provide separate community
facilities, or continue with individual disposal systems.
Adequate chlorination, ozonization, or other disinfection must be provided for all
collected wastes, particularly those wastes discharged to fresh waters. Research
should be conducted to determine the desinfectior method that is most economical
and effective.
Standards for rural disposal systems must be upgraded and an enforcement program
implemented, together with incentives for construction of those facilities by the
homeowner, who will typically be of low income. If soil conditions are inadequate
for proper waste disposal, development should not be allowed.
Research should be conducted on new methods to handle rural sewage.
The Soil Conservation Service program of waste lagoon construction for dairy farms
should be continued and expanded.
Activities of local Soil Conservation Districts should be increased to develop proper
farming and erosion prevention techniques, and a special monitoring program should be
established to detect pollution occurring from agricultural runoff.
1-6
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Regulations should be enacted and implemented to control erosion from
construction sites.
Pesticides should be more closely controlled and their movement monitored
from time of importation to dispersion in the environment.
Greater technical assistance should be given to farmers for application of ferti-
lizers and pesticides.
A program of evaluation of eutrophication conditions and causes in lakes, lagpons,
and estuaries should be conducted.
Point Sources of Wastes
Light industries discharging primarily sanitary wastes should be connected to
municipal facilities. Process water, after proper pretreatment, should also be discharged
to the municipal facilities unless their pretreated wastes would adversely affect operation
of the public treatment plant.
Heavy water-using industries should be connected to the municipal facilities only
if the volume, type of waste, and timing of waste release will not adversely affect opera-
tion of the treatment plant. Al decisions in this regard should be deferned until more
detailed planning and engineering studies are conducted and/or at the time of discharge
permit approval.
Sugar mills should not be connected to the municipal facilities.
The volume of water required and pollution of water used in water cane
operations should be reduced through use of better harvesting machinery
and improved in-plant procedures.
Remaining wastewater from sugar mill operations should be treated by sedimen-
tation, lagooning, and used for irrigation where possible.
Since it is not now possible to predict the type or location of future heavy
industries, it is proposed that an interagency committee select suitable locations across
the island for the development of heavy industrial complexes. Municipal treatment
systems should then be modified and expanded to accomodate future industrial wastes,
or, if necessary, a separate industrial waste treatment system should be developed.
Industries which do not connect to a municipal system should have their allow-
able waste discharges determined and monitored through a permitting system.
Future heavy water using industries should be required to provide the highest
technology of in-plant water reuse.
1-7-
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Since it is not now posible to predict the type or location of future heavy
industries, it is proposed that an interagency committe select suitable locations across
the island for the development of heavy industrial complexes. Municipal treatment
systems should then be modified and expanded to accomodate future industrial wastes,
or, if necessary, a separate industrial waste treatment system/- should be developed.
Industries which do not connect to a municipal system should have their allow-
able waste discharges determined and monitored through a permitting system.
Future heavy water using industries should be required to provide the highest
technology of in-plant water reuse.
Existing heavy water using industries should be encouraged to modify their
processes to increase in-plant water reuse.
Special attention should be given and research conducted for methods of re-
using municipal wastewater, especially for industrial process water, irrigation, and ground-
water recharge.
Research must be conducted and adequate methods found to properly dispose of
or reuse wastewater from the many upland towns where river flow is now or soon will
be inadequate to assimilate wasteloads.
The Recommended System
To reduce public health hazards, meet water quality standards, and comply with
existing regulations, all wastewater will require a minimum of secondary treatment (85
percent removal of biochemical oxygen demand and suspended solids) and adequate
disinfection. Many treatment plants, especially in upland areas, may require higher levels
of treatment.
The recommended system of sewage treatment facilities is shown in Figure 1-1.
A total of 16 regional plants will serve 50 municipios. Twenty-eight municipios will
continue to have local facilities. When fully implemented this system will reduce by
more than half the number of treatment plants presently operating.
The combined capacity of the 44 treatment plants will be about 360 mgd.
Total construction cost based on secondary treatment, for the recommended facilities
including treatment plants, trunk lines, pumping stations, and outfalls, is estimated at
456 miilion. Table 1-1 provides a summary of facilities and costs. Total annual ope-
ration and maintenance costs of the fully implemented program will be about $6.7
million as shown in Table 1-1.
Implementation
PRASA will be responsible for constructing and financing the recommended
facilities.
1-8
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EQB is responsible for ensuring that the facilities conform to this and sub-
sequent water quality management plans, water quality standards, and other aplica-
ble laws and regulations.
To reduce the financial burden imposed on Puerto Rico by planning and cons-
truction of the needed sewage facilities, the Commonwealth should participate with
the Federal government in a shared-cost planning and construction program. Federal
cost sharing of construction of sewage facilities is presently 75 percent of total costs.
Assuming continuation of federal funding at current levels, Puerto Rico can
match 25 percent of these funds by continuing to make allocations from the Common-
wealth General Fund at current levels. If maximum use is made of federal funds the
costs to Puerto Rico will amount to about $114,000,000.
Other methods of providing matching funds are available, and should be ex-
plored in detail. Possibilities are: bonding through special assessment districts;
revision of tariffs and connection fees; municipio contributions; industrial repayment,
PR ASA bonds.
To hold construction costs to a minimum, future detailed planning and engi-
neering studies should reexamine the recommendations presented in this report and
verify the most cost-effective program of water quality management.
Land use controls should be implemented and enforced to reduce urban spawl
and increases in the cost of sewage collection systems. This and subsequent water
equality management plans should be used as a tool to guide development.
To ensure maximum efficiency from the proposed sewage facilities, a thorough
manpower recruitment and training program to provide adequate numbers of well-trained
operators and maintenance personnel must be initiated.
A water quality control research laboratory charged with investigating methods,
both short term and long-term, of pollution control especially applicable to the tropi-
cal island conditions of Puerto Rico should be established.
Since point sources of pollution (industrial and municipal wastes) are more easily
and effectively controlled and generally produce greater reductions in waste discharges
than non-point sources of pollution, priority should be given to the control of point
source pollution. Equal priority should be given to control of pathogenic organisms
through efforts to provide better and more complete disposal of rural domestic wastes.
The large regional systems with ocean outfalls should initially be provided with
primary treatment. A short-term saving of about $100,000,000 will retuft. This
money should be used to expand the collection systems and provide secondary treat-
ment in areas where health hazards presently exist.
1-9
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To provide up-to-date complete information on water quality for future
planning efforts, to determine compliance with water quality standards, and to
measure the feffectivenss of plan implementation, a complete water quality monitor-
ing program must be established by EQB. This should include:
An extensive system of permanent, instream water quality sampling stations.
Period c water quality studies of major rivers, reservoirs, bays and lagoons.
Periodic sampling of industrial and municipal discharges.
Plan Revision
This Water Quality Management Plan is the first step of a Continuing Planning
Process. More detailed water quality management plans for each of the 13 management
regions will be prepared in succeeding months.
All future water quality management planning must be more closely coordinated
with land, water, economic, and other resource planning being carried out by all govern-
ment agencies.
Municipio and regional government offices and the public at large should be
encouraged to participate in planning.
1-10
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fABLE 1-1: SUMMARY OF CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATES continued
¦'roject Capacity (HGD) Cost
Las Marias
0.2
$305,000
Maricao
0.2
385,000
Coamo
1.0 (expansion)
1,2U9,000
"anta Isabel
0.8
2,744,000
Villalba
0.45 (expansion)
625,000
Maunabo
O.W
811,000
Yabucoa
2.2 (expansion)
2,366,000
Culebra
0.05
1,092,000
Vieques
0.5
1,658,000
Total Local-28
Total Island
35.
363 S
$53,536,000
•+55,965,000
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TABLE 1-2: SUMMARY OF COST ESTIMATES; OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
CONTINUED
Project
Las Mara as
Maricao
Coairc
Santa Isabel
Villalba
Maunabo
Yabucoa
Culebra
Vieques
Total Local-28
Total Island
Capacity (MGD)
0.2
0.2
1.0 (expansion)
0.8
0.45 (expansion)
0.45
2.2 (expansion)
0.05
0.5
Cost: Primary
Treatment
35.
363
lb ,000
907,000
$ 3,683,000
Cost: Secondary
Treatment
10,000
10,000
35,000
28,000
18,000
20,000
70,000
3,000
20,000
1,055,000
$ 6,692,000
NOTE: It should be explained, to avoid confusion regarding the
title of this report, that the 1970 baseline date was chosen because
much of the data used in preparing the report proceeds from this
reference year.
I-16
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Chapter II: Island Situation
GEOLOGY AND TOPOGRAPHY
History
The island of Puerto Rico was created by the combined effects of volcanic
action and tectonic stresses along a submarine fault line, beginning with the exten-
sion of the fault (the Antillean Geosyncline) into the Caribbean region about 120
million years ago. Accumulation of volcanic deposits and uplifting of the southern
edge of the fault created an extensive land mass which, in the course of suceeding
millions of years, was reduced by subsidence and rising sea levels to form Puerto
Rico, the neighboring Virgin Islands and Hispaniola. Though the character of Puerto
Rico's geology and topography largely reflects its volcanic origin, a temporary resub-
mergence of the island's margins between 40 and 15 million years ago led to the forma-
tion of the extensive deposits so widely found today.
Geology and Physiography
Volcanic and clastic rocks, and the soils derived from them, dominate the geolo-
gical makeup of Puerto Rico (Figure 11-1). Though there are seven distinct physiogra-
phic regions recognized in the island (Mountain Highlands or Monadrocks, St. John
Peneplain, Caguana Peneplain, Foothill Zone, Belted Northern and Southern Coastal
Zone, Interior Lowlands, Playasand Alluvial Plains (Figure II-2), it is simplest to think
of Puerto Rico as a mass of volcanic and intrusive rock rising to a crest, with its less
steeply sloped edges thickly overlain by sedimentary and clastic rocks, the whole quite
extensively eroded.
The most prominent physical and geological feature of the island is the central
mountain range. The highland region extends almost the whole length of the island in
a rough crescent shape, horns to the north. The crest averages more than 3500 feet in
elevation along it length with the highest peak rising 4389 feet. The range is largely
composed of volcanic lavas, with masses of intrusive rock, mainly granodiorite and
diorite. These mountain highlands are the range produced by the original mountain-
building activity which formed the island, and are extensively faulted and folded. These
faults and folds have formed the complex system of mountain valleys and often tortuous
drainage which characterize the slopes of the Cordillera Central.
Second in prominence to the central range in geological and physiographic terms
are the extensive regions formed by deep deposition of limestone during submergence of
the land over several millions of years. In the course of Puerto Rico's geological history
these areas, which were originally flatlands, have been deeply dissected by dissolution and
erosion; presently, though the peaks found in these areas are of almost uniform height,
they are regions of widespread river valley formations and of very broken topography.
Characteristic karst formations abound and /much of the surface karst is underlain by
extensive caves and underground waterway^.
11-1
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FIGURE 11—1: GENERALIZED GEOLOGIC HAP
*\ \\ X
t/KsSmt
>»
1_
flj
C
ID
3
o-
>-
v.
«s
+J
L.
o
1/1
3
0
4)
O
40
*J
4>
1_
O
feii'ffi alluvial, landslide, silt, beach, swamp and marsh deposits
limestone, marl, hard clay and superficial deposfts
granodiorite and diorite
:| I solid tuffs, lava and volcanic crevasses, thin stratum
tuffs and limestone
serpentlnite
concealed fault source: Oomenech & Associates—Black
& Veatch, Water Resources of
'au1t Puerto Rico. Phase II: Ground
Water Appraisal. For PRASA,
San Juan, W, T971. Fig. 2-1.
(After PRIDCO/USGS, 1970)
-------
FIGURE 11-2: GENERALIZED PHYSIOGRAPHIC MAP
Monadnocks
Interior Lowlands
Foothill Zone
St. John
Peneplain
Caguana
Peneplain
Belted Northern
and Southern
Coastal Zone
CZJ Playas and Alluvial
Plains
Source: Beinroth, Freidrich H., Qutline
of the Geology of Puerto Rico,
U. of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez,
Agricultural Experiment Station
Bulletin 23, Rio Piedras, PR,
February 1969.
IGURF 11-3: GENERALIZED TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
e'evation in feet 11-3
3,000 and over 600 ft. water depth contour
2,000 - 3,000 ( island shelf )
'500 - i'ooo Source: Administrfccion de Parques y Recreos
5°? Plan Comprehensive dp Rj*rac1on al
"Puerto Rico, San Juan, PR, 1^0. p.
o - 500
-------
Most important to human activity is the region of alluvial deposits and playas
-the coastal plain formed of soils created from the volcanic and limestone formations
in the interior of the island. The coastal plain where the great majority of the Puerto
Rican population lives and works, is most hospitable to economic and agricultural
activity.
A high proportion of the Puerto Rican landscape is very steeply sloped (Figure
11-3). Over 80 percent of the land in Puerto Rico is either hill or mountain land, and
38 percent has a slope of 45° or more. Though slopes of up to 15° do not interfere
with most human activity, much of Puerto Rico's area is physically unsuited for exten-
sive agriculture, industry or even domestic settlement on a wide scale. The proportion
of land unusable or difficult to use is higher in the southern sub-basin of the island; the
pattern of orogenic rainfall favoring the northern slope of the Cordillera has also increased
erosion on the north, levelling the terrain there to a greater extent and displacing the crest
toward the south.
Soils and Minerals
Puerto Rican soils are exceptionally diverse in proportion to the size of the island.
They are suited to many kinds of agriculture, and closely reflect the rock formations from
which they derive. Upland soils are mainly residual in nature, and contain the same minerals
as the dioritic and volcanic supporting bedrock. Transported soils combine these components
with andesites, shales and limestone from sedimentary deposits found at lower altitudes, and
in alluvial areas combine some marine deposits with the usual fluvial materials. While coarser
textured soils predominate in upstream regions, fine clays and silts are abundant in flood
plains and near the coasts.
Mineral resources in Puerto Rico are limited. Though various metallic ore deposits
are found in the island, only copper exists in concentrations warranting commercial extraction.
Some commercial mining of manganese was carried out in the south central part of the island,
but was abandoned in 1939. No fuels have yet been discovered, with the exception of a low
grade lignite which is no longer extracted ever for local use. Investigations are being carried
out against the possibility of offshore oil drilling. Non-metallic minerals are resources of
great economic importance, particularly the limestones, which are widely used in building
materials and heavily consumed by the Puerto Rican cement industry. Sand extraction for
purposes of cement manufacture is also extensive.
Seismic and Volcanic Characteristics
Seismic and volcanic activity in the Puerto Rico region, though present on a minor
scale, has not caused much serious disturbance since prehistoric times. Though there is
volcanic activity on many other Caribbean Islands, Puerto Rico possesses no volcanic vents,
active or dormant. (Thermal springs, however, can be found near Coamo, Ponce and Arroyo
in the central south.) The Puerto Rico Trench, on the Atlantic floor north of the island, is
a major potential epicenter for seismic action, and the earthquake of 1857, which caused
some damage in Puerto Rico, originated at the intersection of the trench and a north-
south fault in the Mona Passage. Moderate tremors occur from time to time but are largely
11-4
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undetectable without instruments. There are two major fault lines in the island, one
between Anasco and Juana Dfaz in the western south-central area, and another south
of the Sierra de Luquillo in the northeast (Figure 11-1). The strike of faulting in Puerto
Rico is generally northwest-southeast; contact lines are plentiful and vary widely in
direction.
Climate
Puerto Rico possesses a typical ocean-island tropical climate. Warm temperatures
with little variation, steady breezes and abundant rainfall result from constantly high
levels of solar radiation, the presence of the marine tradewinds and the mountainous
nature of the island itself. Only 18 degrees north of the equator, the island lies within
the first of several linked air cells which circulate warm air poleward and cool air toward
the equator. Masses of warm air rise at the equator, move northward, cool, descend and
move back toward the equator. The earth's rotation deflects these winds from a true
north-south path producing, near sea level, the tradewinds which originate from the ENE
during most daylight hours.
As the cooled air moves across the sun-warmed ocean, it accumulates heat and
moisture. As it moves into Puerto Rico, this air is forced upward by the island's mountains,
where its rapid cooling caused precipitation. The eastern mountain shoulder rain in brief,
often heavy showers on the average of 300 days a year. The southern coast beyond the
mountain ridge, in contrast, receives an average of less than 100 days of rain.
There is a diurnal variation to this pattern. As the sun goes down, the tradewinds
fall off, and cool air from higher elevations moves down the valleys and out to sea. Tempe-
ratures go down slightly, the heavy tropical air acting to inhibit rapid cooling. Humidity
rises under these conditions and highest humidity and lowest wind speeds are usually recor-
ded at early morning.
Although there are small differences in insolation from season to season, and only
two hours difference between the shortest and longest days, easterly waves and cold fronts
from the north alter the seasonal pattern. Strong easterly waves of low pressure moving
slowly across the tradewind current sometimes occur from May to November bringing cloudy,
rainy days, the rain often being heavy enough to cause flooding. Hurricanes sometimes
develop in these easterly waves but rarely hit the island. Even though a hurricane does not
pass directly over the island, its proximity may cause very high winds and torrential rains
to occur over large areas of Puerto Rico from November to April. The trailing edges of cold
fronts occuring further north sometimes penetrate Puerto Rico bringing rain and reduced
temperatures.
In general, the average mean monthly temperature is 79.1 F, islandwide rainfall
averages 69 inches, humidity ranges between 69 and 86 percent, and mean wind speed is
11.7 mph from ENE. Figures II-4 through 11-7 show temperature, precipitation and wind
direction averages islandwide.
11-5
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The two worst hurricanes recorded occured on September 13, 1928, and
September 26-27,1932, with wind speeds of 160 mph and 120 mph respectively.
However, a hurricane in September, 1960, which did not hit the island and whose
winds did little damage, caused 10 to 15 inches of rain in the east portion of the
island in one night. The highest flash flood ever recorded on some streams were
experienced. A rainfall of at least 8.5 inches in 24 hours can be expected any where
in Puerto Rico once every 100 years. Peaks in the southwest of the island may receive
18 inches in 24 hours, 15 inches in 12, or 6.5 inches in one hour.
The north slope of Puerto Rico, from the crest of the Cordillera to the sea,
receives most of the island's rainfall. The heaviest rainfall area in the island is the
rain forest region surrounding the EL Yunque mountain area with a yearly average
of 190 inches. The San Lorenzo area in the Caguas region receives 120 inches a year,
and Guineo Reservoir and Toro Negro in the south of the Manatf region 113, and 106
inches respectively. The dry season in the north is generally from February to April.
Temperatures in the northern portion of the island vary according to elevation
and are largely uniform at similar altitudes. Temperatures on the coast are often similar
to those on the lower northern slopes, but a slight decrease is noted at higher elevations.
Average annual temperature at San Juan is 78.3 F, while further west along the same
coast at Arecibo, the figure is 77.4°F, but inland nearer the crest of the Cordillera Central
at Cayey, it is 73.3° F. Low temperatures in the 60° range may be experienced in winter
at higher altitudes; the record low is a reading in the low 40's at Aibonito near the crest
recorded in 1911.
Lying in the "Rain Shadow" of the Cordillera Central, the southern slopes of
Puerto Rico receive substantially less rainfall than the northern slopes. Although intense
local rains occur periodically discharging a heavy fall, the average rainfall for all parts of
the southern area is much lower than for the north. While the overall average for the
southern slopes is 67.7 inches per year, the average annual rainfall for the south coastal
region is 37.8 inches. On the western coast near the drainage divide, Mayaguez receives
an average of 76.1 inches yearly. Cabo Rojo in the cane growing region in the central
southwest receives an annual average of 64.2 inches. However, the average for the south
is much lower.
Though temperatures in the interior of the southern area approximate those of
the northern area, temperatures on the south and west coasts are somewhat higher. For
example, the annual mean temperature of 81 °F recorded at Guayama in the south-central
coastal region. Figures II-4 through 11-10 characterize the general temperature, rainfall
and wind patterns on the island.
The offshore islands of Vieques and Culebra possess a climate that differs from
that of the main island largely in terms of extreme conditions caused by situation and
topography. The two islands lie to the east of Puerto Rico and are thus exposed to the
same ENE tradewinds at the northeastern portion of the larger island. However, the
smaller islands are less mountainous and do not receive the abundant rainfall of the
11-6
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northeast region of Puerto Rico. Annual rainfall in both Vieques and Culebra averages
slightly more than 40 inches per year. Like rainfall, temperature and evapotranspiration
conditions are similar to those found on the south coast of Puerto Rico; that is, they are
both hotter and drier than the Puerto Rican norm although wind conditions more closely
resemble those found in the windy northeast of the main island.
HYDROLOGY
Ground Water
An appraisal of Puerto Rico's ground water resources completed in 1970 divides the
island into five principal ground water provinces as shown in Figure 11-9. The following
information is from that report.*
The North Coast Province of the island is an area of relative abundance of ground
water with a steady resupply capacity. Since aquifers are recharged principally by rainfall
in the coastal areas, the rate of recharge drops significantly during drought conditions and
increases proportionately during wet years. Sustained drought conditions have never pre-
vailed in the North Coast Province since it is favored by the wind-borne orographic rains
due to its geographic location. For this reason, ground water yields can be expected to be
quite dependable.
Water balance studies indicate that the long-term average discharge to the sea of
subsurface flows in the North Coast Province is about 570 mgd. Less than 10 percent of
this yield has been developed. About 35 percent of this discharge occurs in the western
area, 60 percent in the central area, and less than 5 percent in the eastern area. About 45
percent of this flow discharges through the water table aqyifer, and the other 55 percent
through deeper artesian aquifers (best estimate 1973).
Best opportunities for developing sizeable economic yields from the water table
aquifer exist in the alluviated areas adjacent to Ri'o Grande de Arecibo and Rfo Manatf.
The limited data now available indicate the existence of a very targe artesian head in the
general area between these two rivers, but it should be noted that while plentiful water
may exist in the major river valleys in the western area, water production costs in general
will necessarily be high because of the great depth to pumpable subsurface water in this
area.
The East Coast Province is characterized by small coastal aquifers, which, when
undisturbed by pumping, contribute an aggregate average sub-surface discharge of about
20 mgd to the sea and the streams crossing them. This value is nsduoed about two-thirds
during sustained drought conditions. Although these areas periodically receive recharge
from high surface flows crossing the area, most of this water is wasted either through
pumped drainage or evaporation. The foregoing yields are derived primarily from re-
charge by rains on the alluvial areas.
The potential yield of these aquifers is not limited to the locally induced recharge.
Appreciable additional yield would be made possible by inducing infiltration from the
streams as pumpage in the area is increased. A potential aggregate of 65 mgd could probably
be sustained even during severe drought periods.
* Black & Veatch Contulting Enginaen, R.A.. Domarwch St Auocietti. Water Rmoutcm of Puarto Rico. Ptwn II, Ground
Water Appraisal,San Juan, PR. June. 1970.
M-9
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Any development in the Eastern province which would exceed the combined
annual recharge from precipitation and induced infiltration should be strictly avoided.
Most storage is below sea level, and sustained development in excess of recharge capacity
would inevitably produce salt water encroachment.
The already highly developed South Coast Province presents a very complex
hydrologic picture. Excluding the Lajas area mean annual recharge for the aquifers
in this province currently approaches 320 mgd. However, more than one-third of this
recharge can be attributed ro basin imports and to return flows from current pumpage.
The most significant source of recharge is the surface waters which originate in the tri-
butary areas and infiltrate the ground waters as they crossthe alluviated areas. Current
mean annual subsurface discharge to the sea and to streams crossing the area is estimated
at 110 mgd, and the present annual pumpage for all purposes is estimated at 215 mgd.
On the average, about 185 mgd of the incoming surface waters are wasted to the sea.
About 85 percent of the subsurface discharge occurs in the Pati I las-Ponce section of the
province, about 60 percent of the surface water discharge also occurs in this same area.
The average values cited above are very misleading. They indicate a water abun-
dance that does not exist. During drought periods if full service is to be provided, pum
page would have to increase to 300 mgd, assuming rainfall averages of 75 percent of nor
¦^lal The flow of unused surface water to the sea would be reduced to less than 20 percent
>)f the long-term average At the same time, recharge would be reduced drastically, with the
net result being a relatively rapid reduction of aquifer storage. Only in the Tallaboa and
Gu£nica areas would a new equilibrium be established. In both these instances, stability
would result from importauon of surface flows.
Limited (possibly 4 mgd) additional diversions of surfau flows from Ri'o Tallaboa
might be possible, and from 5 to 8 mgd of additional ground water pumpage could be
developed in the Gucinica area, provided, in both cases, that present patterns of import are
not reduced.
There are localized opportunities for developing additional yields (in most cases
probably not more than 5 mgd) in the large Patillas to Ri'o Jacaguas-Ponce Section. An
additional 3-4 mgd can probably be developed in the Guayanilla area. The opportunity to
induce significantly more surface infiltration during critical periods is thought to be rather
limited in this province as a whole in the absence of additional imports and regulatory ca-
pacity.
Alluvial aquifers in the West Coast Province presently co< tribute an average sub-
surface discharge of about 22 mgd to the sea and to the stream^ which cross them. This
yield can be expected to reduce to less than halt this amount during sustained drough
conditions. These estimates are based on the assumptions that aquifers are net contribu-
tors to streamflow in their natural state, and that the effective recharge source is direct
precipitation on the alluvial areas. Present pumpage is of small volume.
The potential yield of these aquifers could probably be increased appreciably by
inducing infiltration of streamflow. Potential aggregate yield of 40-50 mgd could be sustained
during relatively severe drought periods.
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FIGURE 11-9: GROUND WATER AREAS
NORTH COAST PROVINCE
WEST
COAST
PROVINCE
EAST
COAST
PRO¥fWCC
MHITN COAST PROVINCE
approximate surface area of aquifers containing brackish water
approximate surface area of aquifers containing fresh water
Source: Oomenech & Associates—Black 6 Veatch, Water Resources
of Puerto Rico. Phase I; Ground Water Appraisal,
for PU&k, San Juan, I$76, fig. 3-1.
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The alluvial aquifer in the vicinity of Caguas-Juncos is the principal aquifer
in the Interior Province. Yield of the aquifer based on local discharge, exclusive of
deliberate efforts to induce streamflow, is though to range from 2 to 8 mgd, depend-
ing on climatic conditions. Development in excess of 2 mgd will tend to intercept,
during critical periods, those flows which now enter the reservoir supplying San Juan
(Lago de Lofza).
Ground water temperatures are related, in general, to altitudes. Ground waters
in coastal areas range from 80°F; at higher elevations it is between 70°F and 79°F.
SURFACE WA TER
History of Subject
Systematic studies of the surface waters of Puerto Rico were begun in 1911 with the
first streamflow data collections by the Puerto Rico Water Resources Authority (PRWRA).
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) began hydrologic investigations in Puerto Rico
in 1957 and established a number of stream gaging stations. As of June 30, 1973 USGS
was operating 57 continuous record stations on 48 rivers and 9 partial record stations. Cur-
rently data from USGS stations are available from stations through 1972. USGS has also
tabulated some of the PRWRA long-range records.
The most comprehensive report on Puerto Rico's hydrology was prepared by USGS
in 1964. More recently a study was performed by Black and Veatch, R.A. Domenech (1971)
a private consulting firm, to develop procedures for assessing the relative availability of surface
waters on the island. The WQMP relies heavily for information and data on these two docu-
ments.
Surface Hydrology
Most of the rivers of Puerto Rico are short in length, and none are very large in terms
of size or flow.* The largest of these rivers is the Ri'o Grande de Lofza, draining an area of
296 square miles. There are only seven rivers on the island with drainage areas greater than
100 square miles, although more than 100 streams discharge into the ocean. The large number
of drainage basins in the island results in a surface hydrology characterized by a multitude of
small basins and catchments. Both trellis and dendritic stream patterns occur. Figure 11-10
shows the principal rivers and lakes of Puerto Rico with their major tributaries and influent
streams.
The principal factor influencing the surface hydrology of Puerto Rico is the presence
and configuration of the Cordillera Central. This Central mountain range is responsible for
the abundant orographic rainfall in the northeast section of the island and for concentrating
rainfall in general in that portion of Puerto Rico which lies north of the crest. There is a
very noticable "rain shadow" effect; the presence of the Cordillera deprives the southern
and western parts of the island just as it endows others.
•However, tome flood flowi are among the world's highest in terms of cubic feet per second per square meter of drainage
ATM.
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The differences in drainage networks and stream flow patterns are accentuated by
the position of the Cordillera's ridge to the south of the centerline of the island. Rivers
in the northern sub-basin are markedly longer, and their drainage areas greater than those
in the south. Of the seven principal rivers mentioned earlier in this section, six are in the
northern sub-basin: Rio Grande de Arecibo, Rfo Grande de Manatf, Rfo La Plata, and Rfo
Grande de Lofza on the north coast, and Rfo Culebrinas and Rfo Grande de Afiasco on the
west. The only comparably large river system south of the divide is Rfo Guanajibo in the
southwest.
Because of the greater length of basins and the greater degree of erosion on the
northern slope of the Cordillera, river slopes tend to be considerably less than in the south.
Northern rivers that flow through the limestone regions have not developed large flood
plains and are generally entrenched. Numerous canyons and gorges have developed in this part
of the island. Rivers in other parts of the northern sub-basin have slightly different characte-
ristics: in the western area, rivers have relatively short reaches of steep slope and long reaches
where flat-floored valleys have been formed. The northeastern section contains rivers charac-
terized by narrow, short, upland valleys and eroded lowlands separated by low hills that reach
to the coastline. Eastern rivers have generally developed steep-sided valleys in the interior
and generated narrow discontinuous bands of swamps and marsh deposits along the coasts.
Rivers in the southern sub-basin, on the other hand, are characterized by steeply
graded headwaters lying in the mountain highlands, and discharging to the sea through wide
valleys and coalescing alluvial deposits. The south coast from Rfo Grande de Patillas to the
boundary of the Rfo Guanajibo watershed is an area of exceptionally low streamflow, and
quite distinct from the rest of the island for this reason.
The combination of small watersheds and intense localized storms can produce
flooding in one basin while adjacent basins receive little or no increase in streamflow. Often
the runoff from successive showers will overlap, so that the stream rises again before it has
receded from the previous shower. Localized small floods are frequent throughout the island.
When major floods occur, they are usually the result of the passage of hurricanes over or near
the island.* Historical records of hurricane frequency indicate that severe floods may be ex-
pected over extensive areas of Puerto Rico every 5-6 years on the average, although island-wide
flooding as the result of a single storm is quite rare. Storm runoff in general is quite rapid, due
to intense rainfall, steep slopes and short stream lengths.
Localized droughts of short duration also occur frequently throughout the island.
Severe island-wide drought have historically occured about every 40 years. It can be said
that, except for periodic relief by fortunate rainfall conditions, a large portion of the southern
sub-basin is in a perennial state of drought which is only alleviated by human agencies.
Flow Characteristics
Base flows of island streams vary greatly depending upon their geographical location.
Streams draining the Sierra de Luquillo, for instance, have relatively high base flows (0.56
to 2.45 cfsm) and streams in the rest of the interior uplands rather less (0.23 to 1.62 cfsm),
11-14
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while streams that drain southward through the worst dry areas between Rfo Patillas and
the upper Rfo Guanajibo show very low figures (0.0 to 0.52 cfsm). Seven-day ten-year
low stream flow estimates are given in Appendix D.
In the coastal lowlands and the interior limestone areas, the low flows of the rivers
generally tend to increase in the seaward direction toward the west, north and east coasts.
Rivers which cross the central lowlands in the southern sub-basin, however, show diminishing
flow in the seaward direction, most actually becoming dry during peak drought season. Flow
may recur in some such rivers in their last half mile or so to the sea. USGS data for southward-
flowing streams show that about 35 percent of these streams are dry part of the time even
before they reach the flat coastal lowlands. This condition is partially caused by irrigation
diversion in some cases.
During periods of very low flow, the streams in the coastal lowlands and inland limestone
areas on the west, north and east sides of the island are effluent streams; i.e. ground water
generally discharges into the streams. The streams in the coastal lowlands of the southern
sub-basin are influent in character, with ground water being recharged by the streams, and
in some cases, by irrigation canals.
Low flows of streams in Puerto Rico average about one-sixth of the average annual dis-
charge. The average discharge of most streams is equalled or exceeded only 25 percent of
the time. Flood discharges average more than 300 times the average annual discharge, and
about 2,000 times the low-flow discharge. This range in values further illustrates the great
variability in stream runoff in Puerto Rico.
Water developments such as reservoirs and diversions have complicated the low-flow
relationships of many principal rivers in the interior of the island. Some of the flow from
the headquarters of Rfo Grande de Arecibo, Rfo Grande de Manatf, Rfo La Plata and Rfo
Grande de Afiasco is diverted to south flowing rivers either directly or through a series of
reservoirs. Irrigation canals divert water directly from the main channels of Rfo Guajataca,
Rfo Patillas, Rfo Guamanf, Rfo Yauco, Rfo Coamo and Rfo Loco. Water is also diverted
from many streams for municipal water supplies.
In spite of the limited data available and the extreme variability of the hydrologic
system, some generalizations concerning total stream runoff have been made. On the basis
of 75 inches (13,400,000 acre-feet) of rainfall, the island-wide runoff is estimated to be 29
inches (5,200,000 acre-feet). This includes ground water discharge directly to the sea of 6
inches (1,000,000 acre-feet). The net stream runoff to the sea is thus about 23 inches
(4,100,000 acre-feet). Evapotranspiration is then calculated as 46 inches (8,300,000 acre-
feet) (ANR, Department of Public Works, 1972). Parametric analysis of various factors
relating to total runoff indicates that only drainage area, precipitation and elevation are
significant factors.
Water Temperatures
Temperature data collected from streams in Puerto Rico show a rather small range
of variation. Daytime temperatures range between 70°F and 90°F. There appears to be
little difference in the temperatures of streams with respect to elevation or location. The
short length and moderate velocity of streams probably contributes to this condition (Bogart,
1964).
II 15
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Water Chemistry
Streams in Puerto Rico exhibit the natural variation in chemical properties
of surface waters. However, the chemical quality of the streams varies only slightly
at different locations on the island. The differences in mineral content between loca-
tions are dependent on differences in geology and topography, and differences related
to time are dependent upon rainfall, water use and other hydrologic conditions. The
rapid rise and fall of water levels in streams causes rapid changes in the chemical charac-
teristics of most streams.
Static Water Bodies
No natural lakes exist in Puerto Rico, but numerous reservoirs and ponds have
been constructed for water supply, irrigation and hydro-electric power. Several salt
water lagoons exist in coastal areas. The major lagoons on the north coast are San Jos6,
La Torrecilla and Pinones east of San Juan, and Laguna Tortuguero in the north-central
coast. On the south coast are Laguna de las Mareas and Laguna Cartagena. Laguna
Joyuda and Laguna Rinc6n are located on the west coast.
Culebra- Vieques
Surface water conditions on the islands of Culebra and Vieques are relatively
simple to discuss. Vieques, the larger of the islands, is drained by 36 creeks which
originate on the low range of central hills. Twenty-two of the creeks contain water only
after heavy rainfall. The other 14 flow continuously during the rainy season with dis-
charges on the order of 1 to 10 liters/sec, but only five of these creeks continue to flow
during the dry season from January to April. There are intermittent flowing and dry
sections in eight of the 36 creeks due to the sandy nature of the soil. Six fresh water
marshes lie in the southern coastal area of the island, but only three of these contain
water or even damp soil during the dry season. There are numerous small, brackish
swamps in the eastern end of the island.
Due to low annual rainfall there are no permanent fresh water streams in Culebra.
The soil can hold about two inches of rainfall. Consequently, there is very little surface
runoff unless individual, widely spaced rains exceed this amount. *
Changes in Hydrology
In Puerto Rico, numerous and significant changes in hydrology have resulted from
changes in land use. Shifting agricultural uses, urbanization, industrialization, and water
diversions to meet the demands of these activities have modified flow characteristics, changed
total runoff, altered ground water levels and yield rates, affected water quality and changed
the hydrological amenities. This is most evident in the Lajas Valley, where there has been
a combination of drainage (including elimination of Laguna de GuSnica) and importation
of water for irrigation.
" Data on Culebra-Viequas lurfacs waters supplied by EQB Office of Scientific Auetiment.
11-16
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Many reservoirs have been built in the interior uplands of the island. These
reservoirs detain streamflow, serve as settling basins for silt and provide storage of
water for agricultural, domestic and industrial use. Reservoirs, of course, lose their
storage capacities through sedimentation and must eventually be replaced by new
facilities. New dams are under consideration at Rfo Yaguez, Rfo Anasco and other.
Much of this effort is directed toward providing water for increased agricul-
tural and industrial development of the dry south coast areas.
The island's dramatic urban expansion has, for the most part, taken place in the
flat coastal plains. An extensive program of flood control is underway. Major parts of
the Rfo Bayam6n and Rfo Yaguez have been channelized, and channelization of others
is under study. This has and will continue to reduce the replenishment supply to low-
land aquifers.
Urbanization can be expected to increase. A typical urbanization as presently
designed may cover more than 50 percent of its land area with concrete or other imper-
vious matter. Infiltration is thereby reduced, and storm runoff in turn becomes a serious
problem. The net effect is to further decrease water recharge, to increase flood peaks
during storm periods, and to decrease low flow conditions between storms. The pattern
of urbanization design will have to change. It should be considered, however, that what-
ever is accomplished to limit this trend, the established pattern of increasing storm runoff
is irreversible.
Agricultural land use is decreasing throughout Puerto Rico, as the sugar industry
declines and the island becomes more dependent on imported foodstuffs. Originally
Puerto Rico was almost entirely forested, but by 1955 only 23 percent of the island was
still in forest cover. About 70 percent was cropland and range. Erosion was substantially
increased by the reduction in forest land, and the sediment loads of streams island-wide
were greatly increased. The trend has been partially reversed today and forest lands are
slowly being re-established in several areas. Farms are being abandoned in many rural areas
and it seems clear that lands remaining in agricultural use will be more intensively cultivated
and densely pastured in the future. Water demand for irrigation and other farm applications
can be expected to increase, even though the area of such land may diminish.
The industrial location policy pursued in Puerto Rico heretofore has not been in-
fluenced by long-term water resources planning. Though this policy is being reconsidered,
long range commitments involving industrial land use cannot be expected substantially. Loca-
tion of the petrochemical industry, for instance, a heavy water user, on the south coast of
the island, is an irreversible decision. Encouragement will continue to be given for the establish-
ment of the petrochemical satellite industries to complement these core industries, both those
now operating and projected. More water for these applications will be required and new
diversions from water rich areas elsewhere on the island will be built. Other heavy water uses
such as the pharmaceutical and food processing industries are planned with the same urgency
for north and west coast sites.
11-17
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Road construction and sand and gravel removal from stream beds have altered
the hydrological patterns in large areas of Puerto Rico. Sedimentation from erosion is
augmented by additional sedimentation from these sources, with the result that it has
become a major problem in many streams. Rivers such as the Ri'o Grande de Loiza, Rfo
Grande de Manatf, Ri'o Jacaguas and Ri'o Coamo, all major streams, have serious sediment
problems.
In general, the man-made changes in the hydrology which are of importance to
water quality management have been:
1. The diversion of water to human use exacerbating intrinsic low flow
conditions in many of the island's streams;
2. The damages in land use coupled with flood control channel I ization,
increasing already rapid runoff and further exaggerating the already large
spread between high and low flow conditions.
Neither of these patterns will be significantly curbed in the next 20 years.
OCEANOGRAPHY
Oceanographic Study
The ocean waters surrounding Puerto Rico will be the final receiving body for
wastes discharged into streams and directly into nearshore waters ("Nearshore" referring
to waters within the 100-fathom curve. An analysis of nearshore oceanographic condi-
tions was necessary to determine the feasibility, under local conditions, of waste disposal
by the long ocean outfall-drffuser method. Therefore, a study of ocean waters within the
100-fathom curve was carried out in 1971 by the Area of Natural Resources of the Puerto
Rico Department of Public Works [ now a part of the new Department of Natural Resources),
as a part of the overall study to develop the WQMP.
Since the performance of a disposal system is measurable in terms of initial
dilution and subsequent attenuation of wastewater characteristics, particular attention
was paid to the waste dilution and dispersion potential of the nearshore waters and the
possible maximization of this potential. The 1971 study therefore directed itself toward:
-Characterizing prevailing current patterns
--Discovering the extent of vertical stratification in the receiving waters
-Assembling background information on the coastal shelf
-Analyzing water quality data, especially temperature, salinity-density, transparency,
and the presence and behavior of chemical and biological content of the waters.
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A report on the study, titled Report on Oceanographic Baseline Data for
Nearshore Areas Along the Coasts of Puerto Rico, is available for study of such infor-
mation in detail. The present discussion is primarily extracted from that study and is
intended as only a very general treatment of the subject for the purpose of orienting
the reader of the WQMP.
Genera/ Situation
The physical oceanography of Puerto Rico is dominated by two features: the
continental shelf structure encompassing Hispaniola and the Virgin Islands as well as
Puerto Rico, and Puerto Rico Trench, deepest of the Atlantic basins. The trench con-
tains the deepest point in the North Atlantic Ocean, 27,522 feet, which lies about 90
miles NE of Puerto Rico. The trench runs roughly parallel with the north coast of the
island. Depressions elsewhere in the sea bottom near Puerto Rico are much less signifi-
cant. The Venezuelan Basin of the Caribbean Sea ties to the south of the island. The
continental shelf to the west is cut by a trench in the bottom of the Mona Passage
which is 3,000 feet deep in spots.
The edge of the continental shelf encompassing Puerto Rico is defined by the
100-fathom curve. )t extends offshore from the Puerto Rico coastline to distances
varying from less than two miles on the north and west coasts to beyond the Virgin
Islands on the east. Thus, there are areas where Puerto Rican nearshore waters are
fairly narrow, and also areas of great expanses of relatively shallow depth where the
dynamic patterns of deep oceanic waters have relatively little effect (Figs. II-3 and
11-11).
The shelf is the product of ancient volcanism, and is thickly overlain with marine
deposits, principally coral and limestone, which vary in composition and hardness. Close
inshore on the north coast, there are massive limestone beach rock formations of marine
origin. Coral bodies are more prominent on the other coasts, particularly where the shelf
is widest. The shelf supports a large variety of static and free-swimming marine life.
The major ocean current affecting Puerto Rico is the North Equatorial Current,
which flows from east to west along th north coast of Puerto Rico at a speed varying from
about 0.3 to 0.7 Kt and about 3-5 miles offshore. This current persists throughout the
year with seasonal variations in speed, the low velocities occuring in winter. Closer inshore,
coastal currents are strongly influenced by local conditions. The mean tidal range is 1.1
feet, the neap tides being 0.6 feet and the spring tides being 1.4 feet.
COASTAL AREA DIFFERENCES
North Coast
The north coast of Puerto Rico is marked by a relatively narrow continental shelf,
rarely more than 2 or 3 miles wide before sloping very steeply down into one of the deeper
basins of the North Atlantic Ocean. Offshore, the sea and swell generated by the very steady
northeast trade winds over several thousand miles of open ocean are in many places obstruc-
ted from pounding directly on the shore by offlying shoals of beach rock formation. Never-
theless, the water as it reaches the shore is usually fairly turbulent.
11-20
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The winds are practically always from the easterly quadrant, with northeast
winds predominating. The mean annual velocity is 8.5 knots at San Juan which
probably is typical for the north coast as a whole. July is the windiest month, with
average peak speeds of over 15 knots, and October and November have the lightest winds.
Although the tidal range has a mean value of only 1.1 ft., and 1,3 ft, during spring
tides, there are pronounced semi-diurnal tidal components to the currents off the north
coast. Although north coast currents flow generally to the west, the passage of major
atmospheric pressure systems in the open ocean, combined with the tidal components and
the local geographical effects of the capes and inlets create a complicated current picture.
East Coast
The east coast of Puerto Rico is marked by a board shallow shelf which reaches out
to the islands to the east. The passage between Puerto Rico and Isla de Vieques is about 7
miles wide at its narrowest point and only 16 meters deep at its deepest point. Islands and
shallow waters protect the coast in some degree from open-ocean waves. The trade winds are
extremely steady from the east in this area with an average velocity ranging from just under
6 knots in October to 9 knots in July.
In Pasaje de Vieques, the shallow passage between Puerto Rico and Isla de Vieques
the tidal component predominates in the current picture. In the shallow bays and inlets
lining the east coast, the times of current reversal and directions of flow may vary markedly
from those listed in current tables for the middle of the channel.
Tidal currents are further complicated by the fact that near the southeastern corner
of Puerto Rico, the tidal pattern is affected by the semidiurnal tide that predominates along
the north coast and the diurnal mixed tide commonly found in the Caribbean Sea.
South Coast
Being partially in the shadow of the main bulk of the island as far as the trade winds
are concerned, the south coast of Puerto Rico has a wind pattern distinctly different from
the patterns found along the north and east coasts of the island. As a broad generalization,
it can be said that the wind is generally from the eastern quadrant with a strong onshore
(SE) component developing during the heat of the day and a strong offshore (NE) component
predominating during the night and cooler parts of the day. However, this is an over-simpli-
fication, and the pattern frequently is quite complex. The windiest month is March, with
an average of 7.7 knots from the east-southeast.
The continental shelf along the south coast is over 5 miles wide in most places before
dipping steeply into the Venezuelan Basin of the Caribbean Sea. Small coral and mangrove
islands protect the south coast at many places.
The average tidal range is about 1.1 foot and the pattern is complex. Basically, this
is a region of diurnal part of the lunar month a distinct semidiurnal perturbation is superim-
posed on the diurnal base.
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West Coast
The west coast of Puerto Rico is in the shadow of the island as far as the trade
winds are concerned, which brings about a pronounced modification of the wind pattern.
At Mayaguez, on the western end of the island, the effects of the land and sea breeze act
in almost opposite directions and lessen the strength of the trade winds to such an extent
that a westerly wind is frequently observed.
Along the southern half of the west coast the 100 fathom contour extends west-
ward for 10 to 15 miles, while it is much closer, typically about 2 miles offshore, along
the northern half of this coast. Depths of 300 to 500 fathoms prevail across Mona Passage
to Hispaniola, which is considerably less than typical off-shore depths found along the
north and south coasts, while being much deeper than the waters in the vicinity of Vieques
Passage off the east coast.
The tides of the west coast are of a semidiurnal nature. According to the Pilot
Chart, there is a pronounced flow of water from the Caribbean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean
during the winter months, and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Caribbean Sea during the
summer. This can be expected to make a complicated seasonal shift in the pattern of the
currents along the west coast of Puerto Rico.
Commentary
The oceanographic study indicated considerable variability of currents at all the
areas investigated. A cyclic pattern suggesting dominant tidal influences was observed at
all depths at Carolina (north coast), Guayama, Ponce, Guayanilla (all south coast), and
Mayaguez (west coast). Rather indefinite cyclical current patterns were observed at
San Juan (north coast) and Yabucoa and Humacao (east coast).
An evaluation of currents, temperatures, clarity, densities and chemical-biological
constituents in Puerto Rico's nearshore waters, with waste-disposal potential in mind,
indicates that no general impediment to the use of long outfall-diffusion techniques exists.
In general, temperatures of nearshore waters vary by tenths of a degree around a rough
average of 28°C at the surface with even gradients of decrease by depth. Very little varia-
tion exists in nearshore waters by location or season. Salinity varies by 1/100ths. °/oo
around an average of about 35°/oo. Clarity and the presence of chemical and biological
constituents varies locally, usually as a result of fresh water flow from shoreward, but are
never pronounced enough to be inimical to water quality in the presence of a properly
placed outfall For all areas studied except Humacao, Guayama and Mayaguez, the fre-
quency of shoreward currents will necessitate the basing of considerations of wastewater
disposal on initial dilution values. At the three areas mentioned, currents allow consider-
ation of subsequent dilution as a factor in determining the sea's ability to disperse wastes.
Currents and density figures indicate that, for most areas, initial dilution values will vary
from 50:1 to 200:1 for diffusers on the island shelf.
11-22
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Coliform disappearance rate studies conducted in the vicinity of the Mayaguez
discharge plume, showed Tgg disappearance rates of 0.9 to 2,9 hours. Studies conduc-
ted in the dispersed plume of the Guayama outfall indicated a decrease in coliform con-
centration due solely to dilution processes.
The oceanographic study on which these general evaluations are based was too
limited in time, and its data collection too sparse, to provide the thorough knowledge
of oceanographic conditions in all seasons and weathers necessary to determine the
final advisability of relying on long ocean outfalls for wastewater disposal. Then, too,
local engineering surveys will be necessary to discover other aspects of environmental
impact of the construction and use of long outfalls. It is essential that, for these
reasons, no ocean outfall recommended in the present study be constructed without
an engineering survey and environmental study to determine the exact location for
each outfall.
SOCIOECONOMIC ASPECTS
General Discussion
Puerto Rico is the smallest and eastern most of the Greater Antilles Roughly
rectangular in shape, it has a total area of 3421 square miles, including 82 square
miles encompassed in the offshore islands of Vieques. Culebra and Mona. Its closest
neighbors are the US Virgin Islands, 25 miles to the east across the Vieques Passage.
The island is one of the most densely populated territories in the world. With
a total population density of 800 persons per square mile, it surpasses the densities
of such heavily populated countries as Japan and the United Kingdom. Total popu-
lation of the island (1970 population census) is over 2,712,000 of which 58 percent-
about 1.5. million-is classified as urban. The present high density of population in
Puerto Rico is the result of extremely rapid population growth, fn the previous forty
years, the island's population more than doubled. Reduction of population growth is
recommended as one vital planning goal for the Puerto Rican community.
In the course of the last three decades, Puerto Rico has become increasingly
urbanized and more highly industrialized. The urbanization resulted from mass migra-
tions of citizens from rural zones into nearby towns, and from lesser towns into larger
ones, particularly into the San Juan Metropolitan Area. The industrialization policy
vigorously pursued by the government of Puerto Rico during the 1940's and 1950's,
and initially centered in the San Juan area, was largely responsible for this population
shift.
By 1960, most inhabitants of the San Juan Metropolitan Area had not been
born there. Similarly, 30 percent of the inhabitants of the cities of Mayaguez and
Ponce were born outside their city of residenoe. Population growth in general as well
as urbanization has been most marked in the northeast of the island, mostly in the San
Juan Metropolitan Area, where 31 percent of Puerto Rico's whole population resides
(1970). Almost half the total population {44 percent) fives in the four largest SMSAs:
San Juan, Ponce, Caguas and Mayaguez.
II-23
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An ambitious program of industrialization has benefitted many Puerto Ricans
and the economy of the island in general; unhappily, the agricultural sector of the
economy has not kept pace with industrial development. While agriculture accounted
for 24 percent of Puerto Rico's net income in 1950, and 21 percent in 1960, 1970saw
a drastic reduction to only 5 percent. Employment has also been affected by this change.
While agricultural pursuits occupied 36 per cent of the total labor force in 1950, the
figure had fallen to 10 percent by 1970, The sugar and coffee cultivation which had tradi-
tionally been the core of Puerto Rican agriculture had given way to the dairy industry by
1970, and the former labor-intensive agricultural system had changed to a type of activity
which yielded high profits without occupying great numbers of workers. Government
subsidy to dairy farmers has been greatly reduced lately; sugar and coffee production has
been greatly reduced and allowed to seek market levels, with its money income much less
significant to the economy than previously.
Land speculation has also profoundly affected the agricultural picture in Puerto
Rico. The expanding economy has led to a high demand for buildable land, never plentiful
on the island, and the temptation to remove agricultural land from production preparatory
to resale for development has been increasingly great in recent years. Between 1964 and
1969, 300,000 acres of land were taken out of agricultural production and devoted to
speculative use. Worse still from the standpoint of the agricultural sector and the land-use
economy in general, this application of land has occured mostly in the flat, rich coastal
plains where the greatest number of agricultural enterprises are displaced by development
of land. The Puerto Rico Planning Board has taken steps toward reserving quantities of the
best such land for future exclusive agricultural use. (See Figure 11-13.)
During the first years of the industrialization effort; mainland firms were attracted
to Puerto Rico by lower labor and production costs, and later by a favorable tax exemption
and increasing sophistication and training among the labor force. In those early years, empha-
sis in island industry was upon food processing and related activities including run distilling,
textiles, apparel and tobacco products. The manufacture of cement, bricks, tiles, ceramics
and glass was also important. Such labor-intensive activities were the foundation of Puerto
Rican idnsutrial growth, and today retain more than half of the total employed labor force
with 48 percent of the force included in the food and apparal industries. Though the apparel
sector has been threattened by competition from Asian and European countries, the impact
of this intrusion has neither been fully felt nor completely analyzed.
During the last ten years, the establishment of chemical and petrochemical activities
has exhibited a rapid expansion. The production of alcoholic beverages, electronic and
scientific devices, metal products and glass has also increased significantly.
Much of the island's production is exported, principally to the continental USA.
Firms promoted by Fomento, the Commonwealth government's economic development
agency, show an especially high level of US-directed export, largely because most such
plants are subsidiary or brancj operations of US firms.
II-24
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Another basic economic activity in Puerto Rico is tourism. Luxury hotels
and supporting businesses have proliferated on the island, particularly in the San
Juan Metropolitan Area and nearby communities. Though tourism slackened in the
late 1960'sand early 1970's, it is anticipated that intensified local activities, dollar
devaluations abroad, and other factors will strengthen this activity in the future.
Tourism in Puerto Rico is essentially dependent on the North American market.
Climate and other factors favorable to water based recreation have extended
tourist-oriented development along the coastlines of the island, especially in the north-
east. The high cost of many beachfront luxury hotels has created a movement toward
development and widespread use of the so-called "condo-hotel" which involves sale
of space to tourists and reduces costs of occupancy. In qeneral, the development of
tourism as an industry in Puerto Rico can be greatly enhanced particularly regarding
promotion of local markets {that is, attracting Puerto Ricans who often travel abroad),
increasing attractiveness of the resorts to moderate-income groups, and increasing the
appeal of Puerto Rican tourism to the young and to family groups. The interior of Puerto
Rico is practically virgin territory to tourist activities. Provision of adequate facilites
for outdoor recreation, etc., could turn Puerto Rico's tropical forests and mountains into
major tourist attractions. (It should be noted that Bilharzia control, to make the island's
interior waters safe for recreational use, must have high priority in any tourism-expansion
program.)
Growth experienced by the sector discussed above has had a mutually encouraging
effect on areas such as government, construction, trade and services in the Puerto Rican
economy. In general, a steady growth can be anticipated in the island economy, with the
single exception of agriculture, which seems destined to a continuing steady decline in
importance.*
Population Projections
The population projections used in this report are based on the preliminary 1990
municipio projections prepared by Puerto Rico Planning Board, in December 1972. The
method used by the Board is essentially an education-adjusted cohort-survival technique
applied to the 1970 Census data.
In order to extend the Planning Board's 1990 projections to the year 2020, a
number of alternative methods were compared. The method selected postulates zero
population growth beginning in the year 2020y assuming the adoption of a population
growth policy during the forthcoming fifty-year period.
In projecting the 1990 urban-rural split for each municipio, use was made of the
Planning Board's method of projecting regional splits and applying them to the munici-
pios in conformity to US Census definitions and the muncipios' total population pro-
jections. Urban rural control ratios were established as follows: 1990 - 75% urban;
2 000 - 78°/o urban; and 2020 - 83°/o urban. Only the municipios of the San Juan
Metropolitan Area are expected to be 100°/o urban by 1990.
'Although " Steps are being taken to preserve the best agricultural lands and to encourage crops related to domestic
demand for foods now imported, such at rice and vegetables." (Puerto Rico Planning Board comment, 13 February
1974). Successful cultivation of rice in Puerto Rico, except for certain areas, is highly problematical. Successful growth
of truck vegetables in other Caribbean areas may point to possible similar success in Puerto Rico, given political and
economic encouragement.
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Alternative methods for forecasting municipio population beyond 1990 were
evaluated. The method chosen increases all municipios at the rate of increase of Puerto
Rico's total population. Adjustments were made to reflect such factors as the intensifi-
cation of dense urban cores; the availability of land for future development; and improve-
ments in the transportation system.
The population projections for the municipios were defined in terms of urbaniza-
tion and assumed rural decline rates. Once all the necessary adjustments were made, and
the rural and urban population totals derived, both were added to attain municipio totals
for the year 2020. The values were then interpolated linearly for the year 2000. Island
populations are shown graphically in Figure 11-17; municipio projections are given in table
111.
Places (areas with a population between 1000 and 2500) were identified using
the 1970 census or the Puerto Rico Aqueducts and Sewer Authority Rural Sanitary Sewer
Improvements Program. To project the population of places through 1990, size-specific
rates were used when possible, and the PRASA 1990 population estimates were used for
the remainder. Only those places projected to have a population greater than 2500 by
1990 were given further consideration. Population projections of these places were made
for the years 2000 and 2020. Population projections for places are presented within the
regional discussions in Chapter Ml,
Municipal Wastewater Projections
Future municipal wastewater were obtained by linear projection of past trends in
water use with modifications introduced to reflect assumed future changes. Residential
water use was analyzed independently; commercial and governmental uses were combined;
a third factor considered was "in town" infiltration covering illegal connections, seepage
through manhole covers and pipe joints, and ground water seepage into pipes.
It was initially assumed that present water use was equivalent to wastewater dis-
charge. Multiplying the number of residential customers receiving sewer service by the
number of persons per household gave the total number of persons on the sewer system.
Present wastewater volume in gallons per capita per day igpcd) was obtained by dividing
gallons of water used per day by the total number of persons on the sewer system.
Residential water usage in gpcd was obtained for the years 1961 - 72 by pueblo
for each municipio. The spread varied between 25 to 53 gpcd in 1961, to 30 to 70 gpcd in
1972 (See Table M-3>. The rate of change for this period varied from a very slight decrease
in a few cases to about 2 gpcd increase per year, with the most frequent increase being 1
gpcd. Since the reasons for the variation in rate of change were unclear, an island-wide rate
of 1 gpcd per year for all municipios was adopted. Since the normal range of water use
varies between 20 to 80 gpcd, it was assumed that gpcd is the approximate level at which
most domestic needs are satisfied. It,is anticipated that water use would increase at a
rather average rate after reaching this level. Therefore, the rate at which wastewater dis-
charge increased was reduced by one-half to 0.5 gpcd when any municipio reached the level
of 50 gpcd. To try to reflect long-range water use projections (very little increase or decline),
11-27
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FIGURE n-15. BUILT-UP AREAS (CITY-TnWM-URBANIZATIfTN)
I
1972
Source: Bureau of Master Plans, Area of Physical Planning,
Puerto Rico Planning Board, December 1972.
Source: Project Staff.
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it was decided to further reduce the rate of wastewater increase to 0.25 gpcd per year
beginning in the year 2000 or when the level of use reached 75 gpcd, whichever came
first (see Table 11-4).
Using the 1970 population of urban areas and the number of persons calculated
to be on the sewer system in 1970, the percentage of the urban population sewered was
obtained. The percentage of the total urban population of a pueblo that will be sewered
was considered to increase at 3 per cent per year (this value was recommended by PRASA
Planning Division).
For communities outside pueblos for which there are no sev\er systems and therefore
no separate data on water use, residential wastewater projections were made at the same
rate as the pueblo in that municipio.
The commercial/government sector was analyzed in much the same way as the resi-
dential sector, except that the initial analysis was done on a per commercial/government
customer basis rather than on a per capita basis. No general increase in the volume of
water used per customer over time was evident. Calculated increases over the 12-year period
of analysis {1961 - 72) was less than 3 per cent. It was found that both average water use
per commercial/government customer and the number of commercial/government customers
increases with total population size. Total water use, or per capita use, plotted against sewered
population on log-log paper defined a straight line. A line was fitted to the point and used
to project commercial water use on the basis of sewered population (see Table II-2).
"In town" infiltration was placed at 15 gpcd throughout the time period involved.
PRASA uses this figure in their planning reports and no better estimate was available.
INDUSTRIAL WASTEWATER PROJECTIONS
General
In preparing municipio wastewater projections, a number of techniques were inves-
tigated. Eventually they were narrowed down to two. One of these is based on the relation-
ship between use and employment, by which the quantities of water are calculated on a
"gallons per employee" basis. The other--"Value Added Method"-relates water to the Value
Added by manufacturing to obtain a "gallons per dollar of value added" figure. For the
purposes of this study, the value added methodology was used because of serious short-
comings involved in using the first method.
The value added figures were obtained from the revised Economic Development
Model developed by the Bureau of Economic Planning of the Puerto Rico Planning Board.
Because of time pressure, only one alternative future was used: the most probable "economic
future" for the island based on past trends, present structure and known future economic
development plans.
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TABLE 11-2: COMMERCIAL WATER USE (gpcd)*
Sewered Population (Thousands) Daily Per Capita Consumption (.GPCD)*
1.0
18
1.5-2.0
19
2.5-3.5
20
4,0-5.5
21
6.0-10.0
22
11-13
23
14-21
24
22-31
25
32-45
26
46-62
27
63-99
28
100-170
29
180-230
30
24-0-550
31
32
33
550
34
*GFCD = Gallons Per Capita per Day
Source: froject Staff, from PRASA monthly reports,
1961-1972.
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It was assumed that each municipio's percentage of the total value added
would be equal to the percentage of income generated by that municipio. However,
income generation attributed to heavy water-using industry was discounted in the
analysis since such firms tend to generate proportionally less income per dollar of value
added than more typical light industrial firms due to their greater capitalization. Hence,
heavy water users were not included in the municipio analysis or in the projections, and
the Value Added figures by municipio are those attributed to light industries.
Water was projected at the municipio level by developing a compound water use
figure based on water intake and water output per industry. These water use figures were
used to develop a "gallons per dollar of value added" figure, which was then used to
determine industry wastewater flows.
The Value Added Concept
Value Added is the market value of all the products and services produced by the
economy during a specific time period. Value Added by manufacture is derived by sub-
tracting the total cost of materials (including raw materials, supplies, fuel, electric energy,
cost of resales and miscellaneous receipts) from the value of the shipment (including resales)
and other receipts, and adjusting the resulting amount by the net change in finished products
and work in process inventories between the beginning and end of the year. Based on an
evaluation of the alternatives, this index was considered to be the best measure available
for comparing the relative economic importance of manufacturing among industries and
geographic areas. In conducting the analysis, figures of total value added for the island,
obtained from the Planning Board's Bureau of Economic Planning,were used.
Assumptions
To obtain the projections, a variety of assumptions were used with respect to the
economic structure of the island and its industrial "mix", as well as levels of water use.
These were arrived at following discussion with Planning Board personnel and the Area of
Natural Resources of the Department of Public Works (now Department of Natural Re-
sources), and are summarized below:
1. It was assumed that industrialization trends would continue, but that the
process would be modified both by new FOMENTO promotions related to employment
needs and changing industrial growth patterns in the U.S. economy. No reduction in
Puerto Rico's industrialization effort was assumed in the foreseeable future. Since unem-
ployment is one of the island's major problems, it can be assumed that FOMENTO will
continue to address itself to this issue. It was also assumed that FOMENTO would orient
its program toward promoting the satellites of the petrochemical industries, with the
intention of creating large petrochemical industrial complexes on the island. Integration
of industrial complexes will be much sought after in the near future, since the petroche-
mical satellites will use the refinery's product as inputs, and in turn will produce products
that serve as inputs to other firms. This could be the case in which polyester resin is pro-
duced, elaborated into polyester fiber, and in turn used to produce polyester fabrics, the
final output of which might be clothing.
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There is also a group of industries which, because of their future perspective and
dynamism, are more apt to become extremely important within the U.S. economy and
by the same token, important for FOMENTO promotions. These industries are expe-
riencing a rapid rate of growth and expansion both in demand and capital outlays. They
include the following major (SIC) groups: 28, chemicals and allied products; 30, rubber
and miscellaneous plastics products; 36, electrical machinery, equipment, and supplies; 37,
transportation equipment; 38, professional, scientific, and controlling instruments, photo-
graphic and optical goods, watches and clocks. It was assumed that these industries would
increase their importance in the economy of the island.
2. No change in growth rate was assumed for a group of municipios characterized
by a slow growth rate, bordering on stagnation, and by the presence of an unchanging indus-
trial mix. Some of the municipios even show a decrease in income generation reflecting a trend
toward the reduction of manufacturing employment.
3. It was assumed that FOMENTO would tend towards a policy of industrial conglo-
merates in industrial parks, and that industry would prefer the facilities and infrastructure
provided. This is a logical assumption, since it is cheaper for FOMENTO to buy contiguous
land for industrial use rather than acquiring smaller parcels in widely spaced locations. Such
a policy is also more efficient from the standpoint of building construction and the provision
of facilities. Since the locations would probably have superior road access, it would also faci-
litate the movement of materials and labor.
4. Since reliable information on changes in water use technology was not available,
no change in water use technology was assumed for the projections.
Methodology
To project water use by Value Added, the following methodology was used:
1. Value Added figures for the island as a whole were obtained through the use of
the Economic Development Model, as discussed above. Economic assumptions regarding
the most dynamic industries and petrochemical satellites were then introduced. This was
done by affecting both the intermediate and final demands for each economic sector. Value
Added figures were then obtained from the input-output matrix.
2. To obtain the breakdown by municipio, it was assumed that the percentage that
each municipio received from the total Value Added would be equal to the percentage that
each municipio generates in terms of income from manufacturing.
This can be expressed as:
Vn = En (Vpr)
Where Vn = Value Added for municipio n.
En = Ratio of income generated in municipio n to
the income generated in Puerto Rico.
Vpr = Total Value Added for the island.
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Data for generated income by manufacturing was obtained from the Planning Board's
Bureau of Economic Planning.
3. To obtain water figures by municipio (for all light industries) a compound
Water Use Factor (WUF) was developed based on water output figures developed through
the use of the following: The industrial Effluent Census of the Environmental Quality
Board; data from the Bureau of Water Resources Planning and Management of the Depart-
ment of Natural Resources; and additional water use data from the 1967 Census of Manu-
facture of the U.S. Department of Commerce.
The main problem encountered in this part of the work was establishing compara-
bility for all the figures used since some were on a yearly basis and others on a daily basis.
Since the object was to create a compound WUF which could be multiplied directly by
the Value Added index to obtain a figure in mgd, all water data was converted to an annual
basis. This was done so that the Value Added projections were not affected, by using the
number of work days within a year.
For each municipio, the daily water output figures were added for all the light
industries. This was then multiplied by the annual number of work days to obtain water
output on a yearly basis. Following this, the results were divided by the corresponding muni-
cipio Value Added figure for the year 1970-71. This year was selected since it conforms with
the year in which the effluent census was conducted. These calculations provided an average
daily WUF for light industry within the municipio.
Thus:
Fn = (WUFn) (VAn)
Where:
Fn = Wastewater flow for municipio n
WUFn = Water Use Factor for municipio n
VAn = Value Added for municipio n, projected
m
And:
WUFn = i--1 (WOm) (294)
VAi97im
m
Where:
i!1 (WOm)n = The sum of all water output figures for
industries m in municipio n
11-45
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294 =
Number of workdays in a year
To obtain the water output by industry, it was assumed that the percentage of watei
output was the same as the percentage of water use contributed to the municipal water
use factor.
Thus:
= (Rmn) (Fn)
Where:
Fm - Waste flow for industry m
Rmn = Ratio of water use for industry m in municipio n.
Fn = Wastewater flow for municipio n
Heavy Water-Using Industries:
Many heavy water-using industries presently operate in Puerto Rico. Others can
be expected to locate here in the future. Industrial promotion in Puerto Rico, which
necessarily involves a degree of uncertainty, makes it difficult to project with any degree
of certainty, the size, type, location, and start-up date of future heavy water-using indus-
tries. Although Fomento makes information available on the type of industries being
promoted now and in the future, such information is generally inadequate for projecting
requirements for sewage treatment facilities on a geographic basis. The economic, social
and political factors which influence industrial location decisions are simply too complex
to insure the accuracy of most predictions.
The consequences of incorrect predictions concerning heavy water-using industries
-which, though small in number, will produce disproportionately great quantities of wastewater-
could be very serious. The decision of a large water-using industry, for example, to locate
in a municipio other than that originally planned would result in drastic errors in the plan-
ning of two sewerage systems. The volumes of wastewater produced by such an industry
are generally so great as to dominate the entire wastewater picture for an extensive area,
and dictate the design, size and type of wastewater treatment facilities required for that
region.
Other problems arise when considering municipal wastewater treatment for heavy
industrial W8ter uses.
—The type of treatment best suited to industrial -municipal wastewater mixes calls
for thorough testing and pilot studies.
--Some industries may find that treating their own effluent is more economical.
11-46
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— Industrial start-ups may be delayed by scheduling and construction problems
encountered in the building of municipal facilities.
In «pite cf these reservations, there are advantages to industrial-municipal hookups:
—Government control over treatment and disposal procedure is easier to implement;
—Savings on combined treatment may be very considerable.
-Combined treatment allows the establishment of fewer total discharge points.
After weighing these considerations it was decided to plan on the basis of one system
to accomodate domestic, light industrial, and commercial users, with heavy water-using indus-
try to be located in large industrial parks possessing their own treatment facilities. A series of
such industrial parks should be planned at sites throughout the island, by an interagency body
headed by Foment o. Once siteshave been selected for the types of industries involved, treat-
ment facilities could be planned and built or the municipal systems could be modified to acco-
modate the wastes generated. Although the quantity and quality of wastes, and the type of
treatment required, will vary within the same industrial park, differences between industries
should be such as to be amenable to small changes in treatment. Each industrial park should
be designed anticipating certain maximum wastewater loads. Size increases in treatment faci-
lities would be made as required by expansion of the industries.
Such a system would avoid the dependence of large water-using industries on munici-
pal construction schedules, would eliminate financial waste due to design mistakes at the
municipal level, and result in a relatively small number of point source industrial discharges.
Existing heavy heavy-waters will have to be evaluated individually to determine whether
they will be connected with municipal systems. Outfall and plant design would be modified
to accomodate these industries if an agreement to carry out municipal connections were
reached.
Each industry is legally required by new Federal regulations to pay for its proper
share of construction costs of municipal facilities. Some industries may find it more econo-
mical to construct their own treatment and disposal facilities. Other industries already have
heavy investments in treatment works that they may not want to abandon. Each industry
should be allowed to choose its own treatment and disposal method, provided all applicable
laws and regulations are fully complied with, particularly with respect to effluent limitations
and instream water quality standards.
To improve control of industrial wastes, it is recommended that, wherever possible
industries connect to the municipal system after providing adequate pretreatment. Industries
should not be allowed to discharge to the municipal system if the nature, volume, or timing
of their waste may adversely affect operation of the municipal facility. The final decision as
to which of the existing industries will connect to the municipal system will be made at the
time industries submit compliance schedules for meeting effluent limitations and EPA/EQB
discharge permits are issued to the industries. Recommendations in this report for industrial
connections are tentative. Outfall and plant design will need to be modified to accomodate
final industrial connections decisions that may differ from current recommendations.
11-47
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Water Quality
Water Quality Standards
Prior to establishment of the Environmental Quality Board in 1970, the Puerto
Rico Department of Health was responsible for development and enforcement of water
quality standards and regulations. The Department of Health published Sanitary Rules
and Regulations Nos. 127, 128 and 131 concerning coastal waters and No. 129 for inland
waters.
Those regulations governing coastal waters established five (5) classes of coastal
water standards ranging from "Class SA for the preservation of natural phenomena"
which allowed no discharges other that those from natural causes, to "Class SE for indus-
trial usage" which covered most of the island's ports. For each of the five classes, stan-
dards were established for dissolved oxygen, coliforms, temperature, pH, and prohibited
the discharge of toxic wastes, floating solids, garbage, and raw sewage. A nondegradation
clause was also included.
Sanitary Regulation No. 129 for surface fresh waters set standards for the above
mentioned parameters plus standards for Biochemical oxygen demand (5-day), radio-
active materials, nutrients, color, turbidity, residues, total dissolved solids, chlorides, and
various toxic and deleterious substances.
The Environmental Quality Board recently produced new water quality standards
and regulations covering both coastal and inland waters. These final regulations became
effective February 4,1974, following revisions to several proposed regulations and two
public hearings. The first amendment to these regulations became effective May 31, 1974.
The EQB regulations, as amended, contain significant changes for the previous Dept. of
Health Regulations.
The coastal waters now have only 3 classes rather than five as previously. The new
classes are:
SA: for preservation of natural phenomena
(primarily bioluminiscent bays) - essentially no discharges
SB: for primary body contact and propagation and preservation of desirable species
SC: for secondary body contact and propagation and maintenance
In addition to revising the standards for parameters contained in the previous
regulations, the new regulations contain standards for color, turbidity, taste and odor-pro-
ducing substances, nutrients, toxic substances, pesticides, and radioactive materials. Stan-
dards for combinations of toxic materials have been added as well as a mixing zone pro-
vision. The nondegradation clause has been retained. The amendments set limits on the
seaward extent of each of the three classes. Class SA waters extend 500 meters into the
sea. The classification then changes to SB until the 3 mile limit. Class SB waters extend
from average sea level 500 meters into the sea. The classification then changes to SC until
the 3 mile limit. Class SC waters extend from average sea level until 3 miles into the sea.
11-48
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The portion of the new regulations dealing with surface waters contains stand-
ards for the same parameters as coastal waters plus standards for total dissolved solids,
chlorides, and pathogenic organisms (Schistosoma Mansoni). The combined toxic sub-
stances standard, mixing zone concept, and non-degradation clause also apply to sur-
face waters. The BOD5 standard was eliminated.
All of the specific standards established are "instream" standards, i.e., then apply
to the water body. The various sruface water standards apply at all times, except during
periods when river flows are less than the average minimum seven-day low flow with a
recurrence interval of once each ten years. Effluent limitations apply at lower flow con-
ditions. No specific effluent limitations are set. Instead, each discharge must comply
with the applicable etfluent limitation established by the Federal Environmental Protec-
tion Agency as required by Section 402 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amend-
ments of 1972. The new regulations also establish limited requirements for record keeping
by discharge monitoring, emergency plans, and other administrative aspects enforcing the
standards. The complete "Water Quality Standards Regulations"-appear in Appendix A.
Current Federal laws and regulations call for review and revision if necessary, of water
quality standards at least once every three years. Therefore, the next required revision to
the present standards will be 1977. However, the standards are under almost continuous re-
view within the EQB in an attempt to improve them. Areas that need further review and
possible modification are:
1. Verification of natural levels of various pollutants to determine if the present
standards are realistic (possibility exists that some standards are currently set
above natural levels).
2. Coastal zone classifications
3. Low stream flow standard
4. Administrative regulations
Currently, no specific regulations governing gound water pollution and discharges
to ground Meter exist. The EQB attempts to prevent ground water pollution through its
general regulatory powers under Law No. 9. Discharge permits under the National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System are additional means of oontrolKnB groundwater pollution.
Development of regulations for ground water should receive a high priority.
Existing Water. Quality
Based on available water quality studies, the quality of the inland and coastal
waters of Puerto Rico has been evaluated by analyzing the following parameters: dissolved
oxygen (DO), 5 days biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) and total coliform bacteria
-------
The coastal waters of Puerto Rico are presently classified as;
(See section of Water Quality Standards)
SA - for the preservation of natural phenomena.
SB - For body contact and preservation/propagation of desireable species.
SC - (Same as SB).
Of the coastal waters and bays that have been sampled (approximately 24) the
following percentages of standards violations occurred:
DO - 65 percent
(based on previous
BOD - 50 percent Department of Health
standards)
Total Coliforms - 88 percent
Percentages of violations in the northern and southern regions have also been
calculated, including all water bodies in which at least a single station is in violation.
North South
DO 60 percent 57 percent (based on previous
Department of Health
BOD 80 percent 36 percent Standards)
Total Coliforms 90 percent 86 percent
Thus, the bays on the north coast are more polluted than those on the south
coast, especially in terms of BOD and coliform levels.
Although about half of the bays studied belong to the SC class, the class with
the lowest standards, their rate of violation is still very high.
DO 75 percent
(based on previous
BOD 83 percent Department of Health
standards)
Total Coliforms 83 percent
All the inland waters of Puerto Rico are considered as public water supplies. For
all those rivers which have been studied (approximately 24) the following percentage of vio-
lations have been obtained:
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tnslandwide
North
South
DO
75 percent
92 percent
50 percent
BOD
64 percent
67 percent
50 percent
Total Conforms
96 percent
92 percent 100 percent
The rivers in the south slope violate DO and BOD to a lesser extent than
those in the north slope, while the reverse is true with coliforms.
Besides the parameters that have been studied to any degree, there are other
indicators on which there is little or no information available. Such is the case with
nitrates, phosphates, metals, pesticides and toxic substances in general.
The rivers of Puerto Rico support the bilharzia parasite; same lakes and rivers
exhibit eutrophic conditions; some rivers have salt water intrusion extending several
kilometers inland; some are plainly anaerobic. However, the information available is
very incomplete, inadequate and obsolete in most cases. Thus, a major research effort
to up-date and improve the records will have to be conducted in the coming years.
The rivers of Puerto Rico usually have a range of dissolved oxygen from 2 to
12 mg/1 with an average of about 6 mg/1. They seldom have under 4 mg/1 BOD but
in cases where there are septic conditions in the bottom, as may be caused by salt water
intrusion or sludge accumulation, BOD levels have reached zero.
Bacterial contamination is the worst pollution problem in the rivers since it repre-
sents a public health hazard. The coliform count ranges from 2,000 to over 13 X 10®
MPN/100 mm range. Practically all of the rivers violate the coliform standards.
Many rivers in Puerto Rico have salt water wedges which intrude several miles
inland. These intrusions are favored by the relatively broad coastal plain and the small
gradient of the stream beds. Salt water from the ocean can, theoretically, intrude inland
until the stream bed is at sea level. Usually these conditions result in a stratified flow
within the river. The surface fresh water layer has a net downstream movement while
there is a concurrent net upstream movement of salt water in the deeper layers. There
is usually a sharp density gradient between the surface and bottom layers, resulting in
little mixing. The formation of sand bars at the mouths of many rivers restricts the inflow
of salt water. These sand bars are built up by the littoral drift of sand and are a natural
condition. Behind the sand bar, salt water becomes trapped in a stagnant basin. Vertical
movement is impeded by the sharp density gradient, while horizontal movement is im-
peded by the sand bar. When the benthic oxygen demand is high enough, anoxic or
oxygen deficient conditions can be expected to resuft from the stagnation. This stag-
nant condition may last until moderately high river discharges break up the stratification
and/or breach the sand bar.
Estuaries
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The inland penetration of salt water is normally advantageous to marine
species. Stagnation of the bottom water, however, could severely limit the invasion
of these species. The sporadic rupture of the interface can lead to massive fish kills
due to the surfacing of anaerobic, H2S laden bottom water. Also, this rupture ex-
poses the river bed to scouring and resuspension of fine sediments with a subsequent
increase in the oxygen demand. This can lead to periodic natural fish kills.
The conditions described above are natural and can only be alleviated by
disrupting a natural system with possible harmful effects to other systems. Extensive
accumulation of detritus occurs naturally, especially where the estuaries are lined by
mangrove swamps, which produce quantities of organic matter. Additional waste in-
puts from industrial or municipal sources intensify the naturally poor water quality
conditions. These wastes cannot mix effectively with the stream water or be carried
to sea except during periods of exceptionally high flows. Waste discharged below the
interface may actually move upstream.
Due to the conditions previously described, the stratified estuaries should not
be used for waste discharges unless the discharge is of a very high quality. Wastes from
industrial and municipal sources in coastal areas should generally be discharged directly
to the ocean.
BACKGROUND LOADING
Genera/
The "background values" discussed here refer to the pollution content of Puerto
Rican rivers in their natural state. The phrase "natural state" implies not absolute purity
of waters, but that the rivers in question are those which have been interfered with by
human activities to the least discoverable extent. Making judgements about water quality,
and especially the capacity of a receiving water body to accept pollution, requires a know-
ledge of the body's "natural state" in this sense as a basis of comparison, much as a con-
trol element is involved in laboratory work of an analogous nature.
The capacity of any receiving water body to accept pollution contravening in-
stream water quality standards can be expressed as the difference between those standards
and the existing background value of the pollution parameter in question. Because there
is not enough in-stream information available concerning some parameters, the only fully
usable parameter of pollution has been found to be BOD5. The decision to base genera-
lizations on the BODg data alone resulted from a general sparseness of prior sampling of
island streams and of the subject streams in particular.
Methodology
Though the best available data on water quality derived from sampling was not
extensive enough to establish a picture of individual background conditions in each of the
water bodies, it was necessary to establish an estimate of these water bodies to accept
pollution. This problem, and the possibility of future mathematical modeling analyses
of these water bodies, made the derivation of background values necessary. To this end,
generalized background values were developed. A series of representative sections of rivers
were chosen because of their freedom from point sources of pollution, their geographic
11-52
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distribution and characteristics shared by the remaining rivers of the island, and the
availability of sufficient data involving necessary parameters of pollution. Background
conditions for C1, NO3, and BOD5 were averaged to oroduce islandwide background
values for each of these parameters. Though data was too limited islandwide to establish
background values for each individual stream in Puerto Rico, iind analysis of other consid-
erations^^., land - use characteristics of watershed areas) was not satisfactory, the infor-
mation derived from the generalization employed is consistent enough to establish back-
ground values for the island's streams. For instance, the spread between average regional
figures is not great. The lowest regional BOD5 figure is 0.3 mg/1, while the greatest is
2.1 mg/1. NO3 figures ranged between 0.2 and 2.9 mg/1. Other figures, including para-
meters not used, were similarly consistent, even where excessive, as in the case of fecal
coliform counts. However satisfactory the generalized values may be for present purposes,
it is clear that future planning will require sampling of each of the island's rivers and the
collection of empirical -Jata. It will be highly desirable to accumulate data
involving DO, PO4 and fecal coliform in addition to the previously mentioned parameters,
as these factors are also significant indicators of biological, chemical and physical water
pollution.
The rivers selected as the basis for determining background values were:
Rfo Guajataca
Rfo Tanaml
Rfo Bauta
R fo Can6vanas
Rfo Fajardo
Rfo Grande de Patilias
Rfos Coamo and Cuy6n
Rfo Loco
Rfo Yauco
Rfo Guayanilla
R fos Canas and Casei
Rfo Culebrinas
To aid in determining the locations of treatment plants and required levels of
treatment, analyses were conducted of potential river capacities to dilute waste dischar-
ges, particularly BOD5. BOD5 was used because more extensive data was available, it is
a convenient measure of probable pollution problems, and it lends itself to this type of
analysis.
The analysis of river dilution potential required several assumptions:
-That only background level BOD5 loads exist in a stream prior to point source
discharges. (Background value used was 1.5 mg/1 .)
-That instantaneous mixing occurs and homogenous solutions exist instream.
-That individual discharges to a stream remain unassimilated.
That all waste loads imposed on a particular stream are cumulative.
River capacity
River capacity is defined as the amount of pollutants (BOD5) that the river can
receive without having the concentration of pollutants rise above an acceptable level. Ten
mg/1 of BOD5 was used as the maximum acceptable concentration (based on Department
11-53
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of Health Sanitary Regulation No. 131, May 1969). Estimated 7-day, 10-year low
streamflows were used as the minimum streamflow value at which this restriction would
apply (See Appendix B. Water Quality Standards). All calculations of dilution potential
were based on the estimated 7-day, 10-year tow flow conditions (See Appendix D, Low
Stream Flow Values. In other words, all calculations of river capacity were based on the
minimum streamflow at which any water quality standards would apply. River capacity
can be further defined as the difference between the maximum acceptable pollutant con-
centration and the pollutant concentration existing in the stream before waste discharges
(background level).
Actual calculations of river capacities and expected waste toads were performed
at points along rivers where wastes would be expected to be discharged, usually near
towns and at river mouths. Both municipal and industrial waste loads were included
in the estimates.
Comparison of the total waste load at arty given point with the river capacity at
that point indicated the percentage of BOD5 removal (level of treatment) required to
maintain BOD5 concentration below 10 mg/1. By performing this analysis over time, an
indication was obtained of treatment levels required at future dates. The information was
also used to assist in the determination of when and if a local facility should be connected
to a regional plant. The results of river capacity vs. waste load analyses are discussed within
the Regional Alternatives and Abatement Strategy sections (Chapter III).
The analyses performed and results obtained were found to be extremely useful in
the evaluation of alternative treatment systems. However, the techniques used were simple
and conclusions have a high level of uncertainty. The treatment levels indicated by this
process are suggestive rather than definite.
In instances where very high treatment levels are indicated, the primary conclusion
to be drawn is that carefully conducted, detailed studies must be performed before a decision
on type and level of treatment can be made. In most cases where lower treatment levels are
indicated, no difficulties should exist in the final determination of level and type of treatment.
However, subsequent planning and engineering should examine the situation more closely,
particularly for the existence of physical characteristics such assaft water wedges that could
adversely affect river capacity. More detailed and sophisticated studies, including modeling,
will be performed by the EQB during the preparation of regional basin plans (See Chapter IV-
Plan Revision).
Non-Point Source Pollution
Fertilizers: Present Situation
Fertilizer sales in Puerto Rico have been declining steadily since 1957, following the
general decline in the island's agricultural activity. From 1957 to 1972, the sale of active
ingredients used in fertilizer compositions fell from 60,000 tons to 11,000 tons (see Table
"¦7 for 1971 data).
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Puerto Rico applies a low amount of fertilizers relative to the 1.4 million acres
of land either cultivated or in pasture. Pasturage is the only use for which fertilizer
sales have been increasing. The beef and dairy industries use some 800,000 acres of
pasture and range land, and the Department of Agriculture projects a slight increase
to 825,000 acres by 1985. (See Table II-8).
However, production in the beef and dairy industries is expected to rise sub-
stantially over the next 12 years (Table H-6). Given higher targets of production, it
can be assumed that fertilizer application will also increase. By the same token, appli-
cation of fertilizers to other agricultural sectors will rise if the Puerto Rico Department of
Agriculture projections for fruits, vegetables, and sugar cane are to be reached (Table
11-6}.
Pesticides: Present Situation
Pesticide imports for 1972 are given in T able 11-9, and show a total of 11,025,000
lbs. of pesticides and pesticide preparations imported. Since some of these substances are
processed in Puerto Rico for export, it is not possible to gauge accurately the magnitude
of pesticide application, since export statistics are not available. Though in 1972 (Tabte
tl-9) some DDT was still being imported, now no DDT is imported to Puerto Rico legally.
It is considered contraband and subject to siezure. Impact of DDT on the Puerto Rican
environment is probably slight. Further study is needed to determine whether the large
volume of household insecticides, herbicides, organic phosphates and chlorinated hydro-
carbons are imported to Puerto Rico for domestic use or are being processed for export.
This is worth further investigation in view of its potential impact on water quality. Avail-
able evidence indicates that pesticides are contaminating Puerto Rico's surface waterbodies,
but at low levels of concentration. Samplings by USGS show minimal concentrations in
both interior waters and benthic sites. In any case, more thorough investigation of the pro-
blem of pesticide contamination is necessary to determine its effect on surface and ground
waters through runoff and percolation.
Pesticides: Future Trends
If agricultural production rises in accordance with Department of Agriculture pro-
jections, pesticide use may be expected to increase, unless slowed by the introduction of
biological control alternatives. The current monitoring of pesticide application would be
greatly improved should the proposed amendment to PR Law No. 49 of June 10, 1953
(the Commercial Poison Law) be enacted. This amendment would ensure proper registration
of pesticides and herbicides. Its provisions cover import licensing, manufacture, and distribu-
tion. It also empowers the Secretary of Agriculture to deny or cancel registration when there
is an imminent threat to health or environment; empowers the Secretary to restrict or regulate
use, possession or application of substances which may damage man, animals, useful vegetation
or the environment; requires all registrants to submit a quarterly sales report for each substance;
and, improves the sampling procedures for monitoring by the Department.
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Sediments: Present Situation
Of all the non-point sources of water degradation, sediment borne by surface
runoff is by far the most widespread and noticeable in Puerto Rico. It causes serious
harm throughout the island's watersheds along its beaches and within the nearshore
ocean floor and reef areas. This damage includes: siltation of drainage and irrigation
ditches, increased flooding as channel capacities are reduced, destruction of spawning
beds for fish and shellfish, reduction of photosynthesis and consequent deterioration
of equatic food chains in affected waterbodies. Finally, the sediment itself often con-
sists of valuable topsoils which once removed by erosion, cannot economically be
replaced.
Although the extent of erosion soil losses is not known on a comprehensive
basis, some indication of the seriousness of the erosion-sedimentation-siltation pro-
blem has recently been observed by the US Soil Conservation Service. Their findings,
based in a representative sample of reservoirs in Puerto Rico , showed an erosion rate
ranging from 1.6 to 2.7 acre-feet per square mile, or .03 to .05 inches per acre per year.
At the higher rate, one inch of soil is lost every 20 years from the affected watersheds.
This massive input to Puerto Rico's water wasteload is dramatically evident after
a heavy rainstorm. Ti)le 11-10 presents the findings of the US Geological Survey study of
sediment load in rivers affected by the storm of October, 1970. The sediment concentra-
tions, ranging from less than 100 mg/1 to 6800 mg/1, reveal the extent of flood-water damage
to Puerto Rico's soil resources, and also indicate the causes of this damage. As Table 11-10
shows those watersheds containing major urban development are the major sources of sedi-
ment in Puerto Rico's waters. In rural areas, the construction of municipal or private roads
and jeep tracks generate erosion and sedimentation, as does improper agricultural soil
management practices. Table 11-11 shows that over one quarter of Puerto Rico's land area
is inadequately managed with regard to soil erosion.
Future trends:
For 25 years, the 17 Soil Conservation Districts of Puerto Rico have cooperated with
landowners in the voluntary planning and application of soil and water conservation measures.
As a result, approximately 35 percent of the island's agricultural land area is adequately treated
for conservation. However, as land is developed for urban and transportation uses, erosion and
runoff increases. Public agencies and private developers who construct roads, industrial develop-
ments and urbanization are not now required to consider the soil and water conservation aspects
of their projects. As seen from the data presented on sedimentation of rivers and reservoirs, se-
diment production and serious flooding are major problems in Puerto Rico.
The practices and procedures for reduction or prevention of sediment production or
runoff accentuation are available now, and can be applied in Puerto Rico with minor changes
in existing institutions and legislation. If, as recommended elsewhere in this plan, these prac-
tices and procedures are implemented, future erosion, sediment production and rate of runoff
can be reduced.
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Animal Wastes: Present Situation
Puerto Rico had over 15,000 farms with livestock in 1970, including 314,000 cattle
and calves, 64,000 pigs, and 1.6 million chickens. These farm animals produce approximately
11,800 tons of wastes per day, some of which finds its way into the waterbodies of the island
through surface runoff. These wastes contain bacteria as well as oxygen-demanding compo-
nents, and depending upon concentration, may result in marked degradation of receiving water
quality. Table 11-12 identifies those municipalities where farm animal populations are concen-
trated. As indicated, 4 municipios have more than 10,000 head of cattle.
The waste produced by Puerto Rico's cattle population is approximately 11,400 tons
per day, of which some 4,600 tons are produced by dairy cows. Some proportion of the total
is concentrated at the milking sheds or in feed lots. The Soil Conservation Service designed
some 150 anaerobic waste lagoons for dairy farm waste from which slurry is periodically re-
moved and spread.
Regarding the wastes entering waterbodies through pasture runoff, no information is
currently available. However, in view of the rather large volume of waste materials generated
in some municipios, it is probable that this source significantly affects water quality, and there-
fore, deserves further study for possible regulatory measures.
Future trends
If, as the PR Department of Agriculture proposes, the production of poultry and live-
stock will expand by 1985, animal wastes will increase proportionately. Table 11-14 shows
anticipated levels of animal waste based on the PR Department of Agriculture production
projections.
Human Wastes: Present Situation
Currently, about 37 percent of Puerto Rico's population is served by sewers. Another
16 percent uses either septic tanks or cesspools. The remaining 47 percent, approximately one
million persons, use latrines or do not employ any disposal systems.
Since many of the sewer connections are to storm sewers, and many of the septic
tanks or latrines may discharge effluent, considerable amounts of human wastes are subject
to surface water runoff. Unfortunately data on coliform concentrations in Puerto Rico's
waterbodies are not sufficiently detailed to allow identification of contamination originating
from this source. Nevertheless, the volume of wastes generated, and the relatively high popu-
lation densities found in Puerto Rico imply that this source of contamination is a serious threat
to health, particularly in urban areas, where the frequency of illegal connections to storm
sewers is alarmingly high.
One example of the degree of surface runoff contamination by human wastes is the
beach front of the Condado area in San Juan. On one stretch, between the Puerto Rico
Sheraton and Kings Court Street, the median fecal coliform count is currently 3 to 13 times
higher than Puerto Rico's recreational water standards. This contamination is probably due
to large storm sewers which receive some sanitary wastes and discharge along the beach area.
11-81
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These waters are heavily used for swimming by tourists arid local residents.
Future Trends
The contamination of surface runoff from human wastes will continue as long as
houses are not served by adequate sewage disposal systems. Assuming that the sewered
population increases in accordance with the construction program proposed in this plan,
the 990 thousand persons now served by sanitary sewers will increase to 2.84 million
persons by 1990. The remaining population of 1.06 million will use flush toilets with
conventional septic, cesspool, or chemical type disposal systems. These individual house
hold systems will be jointly provided by the Commonwealth and the homeowner, as in
the current latrine construction program of the Department of Health.
The PR Planning Board requires that a construction permit be obtained from the
Board for all buildings to be constructed in urban areas. The regulations specify the
requirements for septic tanks, cesspools, disposal fields, filtration tanks, and latrines. In-
dividual septic tanks may be used "when no public sewer system is available "and latrines
may be used" in places where no sewer facilities exist and where water shortage makes
septic tanks or cesspools impossible". In addition, the Board requires developers of resi-
dential subdivisions to submit written assurance from the PR Aqueduct and Sewer Autho-
rity that "no accessible main sanitary sewer lines are already installed or projected for the
near future" before such developers may omit sanitary sewer systems from their projects.
"Small' projects are also allowed to build individual disposal systems. These individual
systems are subject to the approval of the PR Health Department. To be approved, sani
tary sewer systems or connections from individual projects must be designed and construc-
ted in accordance with the requirements of the PR Aqueduct and Sewer Authority. These
requirements, if enforced, are adequate to ensure that new dwelling units will not add to
the existing source of human waste contamination of surface runoff waters. Therefore,
attention should be concentrated on existing dwelling units with adequate disposal facilities,
with first priority to those whose wastes are known to contribute to water contamination
through surface runoff,
Nonpoint Sources of Pollution: Recommendations
Rural and Urban Runoff.
Puerto Rico has a serious problem of non-point source pollution from agricultural
wastes, urban and rural wastes, and erosion-sedimentation. Some evidence of pesticide
contamination has been reported, although the findings are inconclusive. Fecal and total
coliforms, BOD, nitrates and phosphates are generally very high in urbanized and urbanizing
watersheds. These parameters are partly attributed to known point sources of wastes. There
is a large residual coming from either undetermined point sources, non-point sources, ground
water contamination, or non-point surface runoff. It may be assumed that the greatest share
of this "unexplained" contamination is from non-point sources carried to water bodies by
surface runoff.
11-62
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Some of these sources of water quality degradation are subject to Federal or
Commonwealth control through various monitoring, regulatory or service provision
programs. However, none of these programs are completely effective in reducing these
waste inputs to Puerto Rico's water bodies. Other programs appear to be totally ineffec
tive, and some waste sources are neither monitored nor regulated in any fashion. In
order to correct these deficiencies, the sources and extent of contamination must be
determined in detail. The first recommendation, therefore is to obtain the necessary
baseline water quality measurements, investigate the various parameter budgets, and
determine the extent of runoff contribution to the parameter values in each manage
ment regipp. Once these baseline data are available for a region, the necessary correc
tive measures, should be implemented as described below. These measures are presen-
ted as recommendations, some of which are mutually exclusive, and others of which
may be combined, depending on the nature and extent of the problem. Cost estimates
for these programs or actions are not immediately available, since they will depend
upon the baseline parameter determinations.
Fertilizers
The Puerto Rico Department of Agriculture monitors the sale and distribution
of fertilizers in Puerto Rico. It is recommended that this program be supplemented
with a sampling program by the Department of Natural Resources for water bodies
receiving runoff from major cultivated and pasture areas during peak application periods.
This program iiould be designed so as to enable identification of excessive nitrate and
phosphate contamination originating with excessive upstream fertilizer application.
Should such contamination be identified, it is recommended that the University of
Puerto Rico Extension Service attempt to contact the farmers responsible and pro
vide technical assistance in fertilizer application on a voluntary basis. Compliance with
application guidelines should be required. Necessary compliance measures should be
instituted, including, if necessary, witholding or reducing technical and/or financial
aid to a non-complying farmer.
Pesticides
The first step in control of pesticide contamination is adequate monitoring of
these highly toxic substances. This function, not currently authorized or performed
by any public agency in Puerto Rico, would be assigned to the Department of Agri
culture by the proposed amendment to the Commercial Poison Law. Although the
Department of Agriculture's traditional functions in the regulation of pesticides will
be considerably enhanced through this amendment, it is doubtful whether this agency
is the most appropriate one for the monitoring and control of pesticides. The function
might be better exercised by a public health agency, and probably should be transferred
to the Department of Health. However, the Department of Agriculture should maintain
its regulatory functions over pesticides that are distributed as part of public programs
(Agricultural Extension, Land Administration, etc.) but subject to Department of Health
supervision.
II 03
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Pesticide levels in water bodies should become part of the regular water
monitoring program proposed elsewhere in this report, with the data to be provided
to both Health and Agriculture for their regulatory functions.
Sediment
The least-regulated source of wastes entering Puerto Rico's waters is sediment
produced by construction activities. There is currently no regulatory authority ena-
bling the Commonwealth to require any measures to reduce sediment production, runoff
or increased flooding. Although under the Puerto Rico Soil Conservation Law, the 17 Soil
Conservation Districts are responsible for local programs of soil and water conservation,
in fact they are not assigned this responsibility with regard to construction sites under the
Puerto Rico Planning Law. Instead, construction permits are granted by the Planning Board
under regulations which contain no requirements what soever regarding erosion and runoff
or flood hazard augmentation.
In order to address the serious erosion problem in Puerto Rico's urban/urbanizing
areas, regulations designed to eliminate or reduce this problem must be enacted and imple-
mented as part of the established construction permit procedure of the Puerto Rico Plan
ning Board. These regulations could draw from existing regulations enacted by other
government units. In essence, these regulations require that all public bodies or private
firms or individuals seeking to disturb the land for construction or other purposes must
submit an " earth change plan" in order to obtain permission to proceed. Such plans
must conform to standards and specifications which ensure minimal erosion, sediment,
runoff, and flooding augmentation during and after construction. Any disturbance of the
land without an earth change permit or in disregard of the approved plan is a misdemeanor
punishable by fine and imprisonment.
In Puerto Rico, the Planning Board Bureau of Permits is the most appropriate
authority for the issuing, review and inspection of these permits under existing law.
Regulations and standards should be prepared and implemented by the Board in close
cooperation with the Department of Natural Resources, the Environmental Quality
Board, the Puerto Rico Association of Soil Conservation Districts, and the US Soil Con-
servation Service.
Animal Wastes
The major sources of animal wastes in terms of production volume are beef
and dairy farms. Since these farms are concentrated in few areas, {24 percent of all the
cattle are in a few municipios) any efforts to reduce and eliminate the runoff contami-
nation from these farms could be initially concentrated in these areas. Where applicable,
the Soil Conservation Service program of waste lagoon construction should be continued
and extended to beef cattle production as well as to dairy farms. To accurately identify
sources of wastes, the Department of Health should continue to monitor the operations
of these farms in cooperation with the waste quality monitoring program recommended
as part of this plan.
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For poultry and swine production, conventional regulatory actions appropriate
to point sources of pollution should be adequate.
Human Wastes
In order to reduce or eliminate the contamination resulting from the production
of household wastes, areas where such contamination exists must be located and suitable
systems for waste collection implemented. Where there is no possibility of connection to
existing waste treatment systems local solutions should be sought, based on the community
size. Community systems would reduce the cost of collectors. Such solutions might be
accomplished through either pressure or vacuum lines. Research on the applicability of
these systems is not yet completed. An alternative would be to provide temporary collec-
tors from surrounding dwellings, with the wastes carried in pump trucks to nearby treat-
ment facilities. For those areas in which density is too low to justify community systems,
household latrine and septic tank programs should be continued and expanded. Research
on improved septic tank design and on aerobic and chemical treatment and disposal tech-
niques for household applications must be encouraged. Finally, standards for these dis-
posal systems must be upgraded and an enforcement program implemented, together
with incentives for construction of these facilities by the homeowner, who will typically
be of low income.
These recommendations should be carried out by the Puerto Rican Department
of Health in conjunction with the Puerto Rico Aqueducts and Sewers Authority (PRASA)
and the Puerto Rico Planning Board.
Point Source Pollution:
Industrial Inventory
In 1970, PRASA conducted an island-wide census of industries and municipal treat-
ment plants in an effort to locate significant point sources of pollution. The island was
divided into 18 sub-basins or regions*. A mobile laboratory was used to supplement PRASA's
regional laboratories. A team of engineers from PRASA's Planning Division conducted the
field work. The steps followed in preparing the Industrial Effluent Census were:
1. Identification of all industries in each region giving location; products; S.I.C
code; hours of work per week; number of employees; receiving stream; type of treatment,
if any; reduction in BOD and SS; and population iquivalent of wastes.
2. Classification of industries into the following categories:
a. Industries not using a public sewer system
b. Industries not using a public sewer system (with insignificant
waste discharge)**
c. Industries using a public system
*These 18 regions have been reduced to 13 for the purposes of this WQMP.
* "Insignificant discharge it one whose flow is less than a thousand gallons per day.
11-65
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3. Sampling wastewaters of those industries not using the public system
and considered to have significant waste discharge. Effluent data on the following
parameters were obtained:
a. Flow
b. Temperature
c. pH
d. 5-day BOD
e. COD
f. Settleable solids
g.SS
h. TS
i. Heavy metal analysis (in some cases)
j. Miscellaneous parameters such as turbidity, alkalinity, volatile
solids, and sulfates.
Flow measurements were taken by PRASA operators for a 3-hour period
during the morning and afternoon for one day. Samples for yhe analyses were
grab samples taken on 5 consecutive days at different hours (1 sample per day).
PRASA supervised the analyses and prepared the data in final form as it appears
in the Industrial Effluent Census published in 1971.
The information presented in the Industrial tables (Chapter III) for each
region was obtained from the Industrial Effluent Census, as well as more recent
information from the following sources: Refuse Act applications submitted to
EQB, information obtained from knowledgeable individuals, and Environmental
Impact Statements submitted to EQB as of January 1973.
The Point Source Inventory includes those industries not using a public
system but having significant waste discharges, as well as those discharging into
public systems whose effluent quantity or quality might significantly affect treat-
ment plant performance***. The inventory does not include municipal treatment
plants since these are treated elsewhere in the report. The data is organized by the
13 management regions, by municipio within each region, and listed in alphabetical
order.
significantly affect" means to the point of altering or determining size of treatment plant or type of treat-
ment required.
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In Puerto Rico at the present time there are approximately 250 major indus-
trial point sources of pollution.
The distribution of industries in the island reflects the industrialization policies
of the government dating from the early 1950's (see II.B-Socioeconomic System). Most
of the industries are located in the San Juan Region, as can be seen from the accompanying
table:
Region
Number of
Industries
Percentage
Per Region
Aguadilla
3
1.2
Arecibo
19
7.5
Barceloneta
24
9.4
Caguas
12
4.7
Dorado
16
6.3
Fajardo
7
2.8
Guayama
9
3.5
Guayanilla
13
5.1
Humacao
11
4.3
Mayaguez
15
5.9
Ponce
25
9.8
San Juan
100
39.4
Most of the industries in the San Juan region may be classified as light indus-
tries. Some heavy industries, such as petrochemicals, are concentrated in certain areas
along the coast of the island, following previous government policies on industrializa-
tion. Thus, petrochemicals are located in the Guayanilla region and further southeast
in the Guayama and Humacao regions, pharmaceuticals in Barceloneta, and tuna canne-
ries in MayagQez and Ponce. San Juan covers the whole spectrum of industry from
petrochemicals to small, metal finishing factories, however, there are no sugar mills in
the region. Sugar mills are found mostly in the west of Puerto Rico; the south and
east up to Fajardo, and on the north near Arecibo.
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The following table lists the number and percentages of certain industries
by region:
Pharmaceuticals Petrochemicals Sugar Mills Food Distilleries
Processing
Aguadilla
-
-
-
-
2
18.2
1
3.1
1
11.1
Arecibo
1
6.7
-
-
1
9.1
6
18.8
2
22.2
Barceloneta
5
33.3
-
-
-
-
4
12.5
Caguas
-
-
-
-
-
-
1
3.1
Dorado
-
-
-
-
-
2
6.3
3
33.3
Fajardo
-
-
-
-
1
9 1
-
-
Guayama
1
6.7
1
12.5
2
18.2
-
-
-
-
Guayanilla
-
-
5
62.5
1
9.1
-
-
Humacao
2
13.3
1
12.5
1
9.1
-
-
-
Mayaguez
1
6.7
-
-
2
18.2
4
12.5
1
11.1
Ponce
1
6.7
-
-
1
9.1
5
15.6
1
11.1
San Juan
4
26.6
1
12.5
_
9
28.1
1
11.1
Power generating complexes are located at Guayanilla and San Juan, with a new one
being developed at Guayama.
On an island-wide map of point sources, a band along the coast can be traced where
most of the industries lie. In the interior of the island, small food processing industries are
found as well as many sand and gravel plants.
In the future, industrial development can be expected to follow present trends. A
boost in industrial activities is expected, mainly in the areas of power generation by imple
menting nuclear reactors and petroleum oriented industries to supplement the existing refi-
neries. In coming years the preservation and enhancement of the quality of the waters of
Puerto Rico will be an increasingly challenging task for regulatory agencies like the Envi-
ronmental Quality Board.
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The Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA) is the only public
agency on the island with authority and responsibility for constructing, operating, and
maintaining publicly owned sewage facilities. Regulations of the Puerto Rico Planning
Board require that each new development be provided adequate sanitary facilities. Rapid
growth of new public and private housing has exceeded PRASA's ability to provide all of the
required facilities.To hafc fill the gap, many private developers have constructed sewer lines and
small treatment plants to serve their projects. These facilities are later turned over the PRASA
for operation.
The current wastewater treatment system in Puerto Rico consists of 99 separate sys-
tems (July 1972). Each of the main towns of the 78 municipios (except Dewey in Culebra)
is served by some type of system. Major cities such as San Juan, Bayam6n, Carolina, Maya-
guez and Aguadilla have additional facilities, mostly built by private developers.
Of the 99 systems, 6 provide only collection lines and ocean outfalls, discharging
untreated sewage into neershore ocean waters. This situation exists at Arecibo, Aguadilla,
Mayaguez, Isabela, Guayams and Arroyo. (A primary plant recently began operating in
Ponce).
Eight septic tanks serve the towns of Rfo Grande, Naguabo, Orocovis, San Germdn,
Aguada, Barcetoneta, Morovis and Toa Beja. New secondary plants to replace the septic
tanks are now under construction at Rfo Grande and San German.
Seventeen Imhoff tanks and 5 sedimentation tanks with separate digesters serve
another 24 urban areas with primary treatment. A new secondary plant is now under cons-
truction at Maricao. The largest of the primary plants is Puerto Nuevo, which serves San
Juan, Bayam6n and Catafto.
the remaining 62 facilities all provide secondary treatment. Forty-nine plants are
the trickling filter type, 8 activated sludge, 2 continuous aeration, and 3 compact filters.
These plants serve 36 municipios, 2 public housing projects, 2 industrial parks, and 21
private urbanizations.
Total capacity of the PRASA-operated system is 61.633 mgd (July 1972) for the
primary and secondary facilities. No data is available for the septic tanks or raw dischar-
ges. The secondary plants have a rated capacity of 34,350 mgd while the primary plants
total 27.283 mgd capacity. Average daily flow to the plants totaled 67.041 mgd; 24.784
mgd to secondary plants and 42.267 mgd to primary plants. Only 14 plants hed 85 per-
cent or better removal efficiency for either BOOg or suspended solids.
Puerto Nuevo, at 24 mgd capacity, is the only large plant on the island. All other
existing plants have less than 4 mgd capacity. Only 10 plants have greater than 1 mgd
capacity. (The newly constructed primary plant has a capacity of 10 mgd.) Most of the
secondary plants are receiving flows at or near design capacity. With few exceptions,
these plants, even the newer ones, will be overloaded by 1980. The primary plants are
almost all merely overloaded. Puerto Nuevo operates at more than 150 percent of
capacity.
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Until recently, little consideration was given to the location of plants and out-
falls with regard to water pollution. Consequently, many discharges are to water bodies
unable to adequately dilute and assimilate the wastes. Ocean outfalls often discharge
too close to shore and frequently near existing or potential public beaches. In many
cases, bays with poor exchange of water have been used for waste disposal. Rivers with
extremely low flow conditions during portions of the year are used for disposal. Some
rivers, particularly in the San Juan area, have been overloaded with multiple waste dis-
charges from plants built by PRASA and private developers.
In 1970 PRASA provided sewer collection service to approximately 990,000
persons; 36.5 percent of the total population and 62 percent of the urban population.
By 1972 the total number of persons receiving sewer service was about 1,098,000. In 1972
PRASA also provided sewer service for 26,727 commercial establishments and 1,197
industries; 43.5 percent and 54.7 percent respectively of the commercial and industrial
customers receiving water service from PRASA.
There presently exists a serious need for coordinated planning and development
of new and expanded sewage systems. To alleviate the already serious problems of opera-
tion and maintainance, and to provide greater control over discharges, consolidation of
plants is needed. Although the building of small treatment plants by private developers
will undoubtedly continue for some time as an interim measure, a long-term goal should
be to produce a system of PRASA facilities that meets the total treatment needs of the
island.
Sludge Handling and Disposal
The sludge presently produced by treatment plants in Puerto Rico is usually
thickened by gravity, digested, and dried on sand beds. The resultant sludge cake is
either retained at the treatment plant site or transported to the nearest sanitary landfill.
Some sludge is removed from treatment plant sites by local farmers and other residents
for use as fertilizer on farms and lawns.
Future sludge handling processes should be much the same as at present. For
small plants, the sludge can continue to be disposed of at the treatment plant site. Larger
plants producing more sludge will probably have to rely on local sanitary landfills. Sludge
incineration may be feasible at the largest plants. Incineration is presently being considered
for sludge disposal at the Puerto Nuevo plant.
Operation & Maintenance
Proper operation and maintenance of the existing wastewater facilities is a serious
problem. Many plants are frequently out of operation due to various equipment break-
downs, sometimes for extended periods. Few plants seem to be operating at their design
level. Several major problems seem to exist: Climatic conditions that cause rapid deter-
ioration of equipment; lack of an adequate preventative maintenance program; operating
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and maintenance personnel who lack sufficient training; and too few personnel from EQB
and PRASA currently receiving operator training courses, classroom and on-the job
training. The program has not achieved the success necessary to significantly improve
conditions.
As additional and more sophisticated treatment facilities are constructed, the
demand for treatment plant operators and maintenance personnel will increase signi-
ficantly. To make these treatment facilities a worthwhile investment, it is essential
that adequate numbers of well-trained personnel be available. To this end, it is urged
that the training program be expanded and some form of mandatory operator certifi-
cation be required (a certification program is currently under consideration).
Sugar Mills
Sugar cane has shaped the character and practice of agriculture in Puerto Rico for
almost the entire history of the island. Imported from Africa to the West Indies, and from
neighboring islands to Puerto Rico early in the Spanish colonial period, cane soon domi-
nated the local agricultural scene. Though cane is a hardy crop--a perennial grass, highly
specialized-and fairly easy to cultivate, and the crop has created an agribusiness of sub-
stantial size, it has also shackled Puerto Rican agriculture to cash-crop operations, and to
an extensive type of farming which is not economical of manpower, land, or equipment.
The number of sugar mills in the island has declined from 22 in 1966 to eleven today; all
are operated by the Puerto Rican government. The goal for sugar mills left in operation is
that they should be larger, more modern and more efficient than previously, with all desire-
able geographical separation between mills to maximize economic and employment benefits.
The basic problem, from the standpoint of water pollution, is that, traditionally, little
or no treatment has been provided for effluents from sugar mills. There is a high concentra-
tion of polluting agents that, together with the large amounts of wastewater discharged, create
a serious problem for water treatment Sugar cane ordinarily averages about 15 percent by
weight of fiber and 85 percent by weight of juice. The juice would typically be composed
of 70 percent water, 12 percent sucrose and 3 percent non-sucrose soluble solids which
include invent sugars and impurities.
Water use varies.widely from factory to factory due to dissimilar conservation and
recycling techniques. A technique which contributes to the diversity in factory water usage
is the recycling of barometric condenser water.
The number of processes involved in sugar cane harvesting and sugar manufacturing
and refining make a full presentation of all of these processes impossible. However, we can
state the problem in general terms without having to describe each effluent from all different
sources. In both factories and refineries, the four main pollutants found in sugar mills and
refinery effluents are: (a| temperature, (b) organic matter, (c) total dissolved solids, and (d)
suspended solids.
Wastewater temperature is due mainly to barometric leg condenser water, since this
process uses the greatest amount of water in a sugar factory. The temperature of the baro-
metric leg condenser water is a function of the control exerted by the operators in order to
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prevent sucrose entrainment in the water. Another source of temperature increase is
the boiler blowdown vhich results from the necessity to maintain high quality boiler
feed water by continously or intermittently discharging portions of the feed water.
Wastewater streams from these processes are normally discharged at temperatures in the
range of 16° to 43° C but may, in some instances, be as high as 63°C. The discharge of
these heated waters, with inadequate dilution, may result in serious consequences to
aquatic environments.
Organic matter originates from various processes. By shifting from manual cane
cutting to mechanized harvesting, producers have been able to speed up cane cutting and
to meet ever-increasing labor costs. However, this has represented a drawback in terms of
pollution since 1/3 of the total weight of the cane cut by this method is composed of
foreign matter. Most factories do not recycle their cane wash, but discharge it without
any treatment. Another source of organic pollution is the filter press cake; between 40
to 140 lbs. per ton are produced depending on the factory, the cane and other conditions.
Unslurried filter cake has a moisture content ranging between 70 and 80 percent, and a
sugar content of 1 to 4 percent. In those factories which produce a filter mud by slurrying
the filter cake with water, this stream represents the most significant source of organics
and suspended solids within the factory. The press cake is characterized by high hydro-
carbon control and a high concentration of the hydrogen ion (low PH). Another source
of organic matter comes from floor wash water. The presence of organics in floor wash
water originates from juice and raw sugar spills. In many instances, this is due to poor
housekeeping practices or poor in-plant control procedures.
Total dissolved solids may reach levels of 100 mg/1 in factory and refinery waste
waters. These are more often organic in nature, originating from sucrose. When land
impoundment is used, the dissolved solids concentrations in seepage may exceed raw
wastewater values considerably.
Suspended solids originate from many different sources and most of them are
inorganic in nature.
There exists a need for monitoring the wastewaters of sugar mills and refineries.
This should be done in order to maintain the highest possible quality of effluents that
can be afforded, utilizing the best available technology. Major wasteswater parameters of
pollutional significance include BOD (5-Day, 20° Centigrade), COD, TOC suspended
solids, pH, and temperature. Minor parameters of significance include sucrose, alkalinity,
total conforms, fecal coliforms, total dissolved solids and nutrients (forms of nitrogen and
phosphorus). No purely hazardous or toxic pollutants (heavy metals, pesticides, etc.)
exist in wastes discharged from cane sugar mills and refineries.
Significant pollution parameters for the protection of ground water from land
disposal include BOD, COD, pH, temperature, total dissolved solids, and nutrients.
II 72
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It is necessary to identify the best technology available to the sugar industry in
terms of both in-plant control and treatment and end-of-line treatment. It is beyond
the scope of this plan to study all the alternatives in depth. Only some that are in use
at this moment or that can be put in practice easily in the near future will be mentioned.
In-plant control plays an extremely important part in the prevention or diminution
of water pollution in the sugar industry. Costs of effective in-plant control of the sources
of pollution are negligible when compared to the costs of treatment of pollution effluents
Cane harvesting plays an important role in the prevention of pollution. The development
of new machinery is already under way. Some models have been built and are being eva-
luated at this moment. This includes machinery which cleans the cane on site, or dry
cleaning of cane. This kind of equipment could forseeably be put into action in the near
future. Other methods consist of recirculating or recycling wash water. Barometric leg
condenser water is being used as cane wash water in some mills. The effluent resulting
from this operation can be recycled or impounded, or used as land irrigation.
The dry handling of filter press cake allows a zero discharge and provides material
for land fill. In the case of factories with no available land, the filter mud can be mixed
with sufficient water so that it can be pumped as a slurry, which can be settled with dis-
charge of the supernatant, and totally impounded.
The efficient operation of the evaporators should eliminate sucrose entrainment.
Some measures exist that permit limiting the vapor height. Liquid vapor separation
devices allow for the reduction of sucrose entrainment, while automatic controls main-
tain efficient operation by means of a feedback monitoring system.
Measures should be adopted to prevent accidental spillage of liquids and sugar within
factories and refineries. This can be effected by general good practice in housekeeping and
maintenance. Floor wash water should be recovered for reuse or impoundment. Bearing
cooling water can be recycled. The installation of a bearing water recirculation system not
only reduces wastewater discharge, but reduces bearing maintenance requirements.
Boiler and fly ashes can be dry handled or retained, as is being done by some mills
and refineries outside the island. Fly ash and boiler ash slurries can be retained onsite by
impounding or used for land irrigation. Therefore, technology exists which will allow zero
. discharge of pollutants.
End-of-line wastewater treatment in cane sugar factories and refineries consists of a
small number of non-complex systems. These include sedimentation, lagooning, and land
irrigation. The factories that have sufficient land to dispose of their waste by land irriga-
tion have the optimum system for waste disposal.
Mechanical clarifiers can be used to settle out washwater, and can discharge to
settling ponds before use of the overflow for irrigation. Settled sludge and slurried filter
cake can be pumped from clarifiers to some areas for landfill. Settling ponds can be allowed
to fill and dry, and then the dried material can be hauled to landfill.
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Wasteholding lagoons can be used, as well. Sealing of pond bottoms to control
percolation may be necessary, but self-sealing might occur as a result of mat formation.
Biological treatment of sugar waste has been demonstrated in bench and pilot
plant tests. Sucrose is known to be highly biodegradable, and substantial BOD reductions
have been observed in impounding lagoons for both mills and refineries. Although some
difficulties have been reported with filamentrous bacterial growth and in the control of sus-
pended solids in the effluent of the pilot plant, with proper design and with nutrient additions
to the nutrient deficient wastes, these systems (biological treatment) can achieve 90 to 95
percent treatment efficiency for highly organic waste such as process wastewater from cane
sugar mills and refineries.
It is recommended that, because of the seasonal operation of the industry extremely
large volumes of water discharged, and high concentrations of certain pollutants, process
waters from the sugar mills and refineries not be connected with municipal waste treatment
facilities Instead, they should rely on complete, self-provided treatment of effluent waters.
The Puerto Rican sugar industry should immediately take such steps as necessary to expedite
the attainment of effluent limitations required by applicable water quality standards. Both
in-house and end-of-line measures should be utilized. Any studies or investigations required
for the advancement of this effort should be begun without delay.
WA TERBORNE DISEASES
General
Puerto Rico has been fortunate among tropical lands for its success in combating
waterborne diseases. Improved socioeconomic conditions over the years have given rise to
a generally healthy populace. Public health measures have been effective; non-parasitic
waterborne diseases (e.g. cholera, typhoid fever)and mosquitoborne diseases (malaria, yellow
fever) are all but extinct. However, a problem with parasitic diseases persists. These diseases
involve parasitic worms which lodge in various organs of the human abdomen. While heavy
incidence of the diseases is concentrated in certain areas of the island, (see Fig. 11-18, p.
II-76), they are generally prevalent throughout Puerto Rico, so that, with very few excep-
tions, all the surface waters of the island can be assumed to be contaminated with one or
more of the parasitic strains.
The persistence of these diseases in the island is due to a number of factors: a rela-
tively dense rural population with inadequate sanitary facilities, population centers with
sewage collection and treatment systems which are substandard, climatic and hydrologic
factors favorable to the parasites' survival,and a public too often unaware of the danger
of infection. The effects of these diseases in terms of human suffering and lost produc-
tivity is impossible to calculate. Infection of practically all inland waters means danger
to a populace increasingly eager to use these waters for recreation.
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FIGURE 11-18: OPERATING SUGAR MILLS IN PUERTO RICO, 1974
SAM JUAN
JAROO
6UANICA
legend
SUGAR FACTOR*
(D HIGHWAY NUMBER
• TOWN
APPROXIMATE SCALE IN MILES
Source: EQB Water Office
II 76
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Schistosomiasis
Schistosomiasis is often called "Bilharzia" or Bilharziasis." The organism which
causes the disease, the schistosome, is a microscopic worm. They are three species of
schistosomes which affect man, but only one. Schistosoma mansoni, exists in Puerto Rico.
Schistosomiasis is a debilitating disease. Invading the human body, the schistsomes
live and mate in the circulatory system of the large intestine. As they grow in number, they
migrate to other organs, notably the liver, eventually impairing liver function and the balance
and operation of other organs in consequence.
Repeated exposure is needed to develop a severe case. Symptoms range from chronic
mild fatigue to prostration with pain and nausea of liver of other organic dysfunction. There
is no certain cure, through chemotherapy with antomony and other heavy-metal medications
may be effective against the parasites. This treatment can be dangerous or even fatal to the
patient (heavy metals are, of course, poisonous to humans as well as schistosomes) and is very
often contraindicated. In untreated cases, the prognosis can become grave as the patient's age
advances, though many times the disease is never more than mild. Schistosomiasis is not
only difficult to treat successfully, but tenacious and resistant to public health measures.
The life cycle of the schistosoma parasite is very successfully adapted to its habitats
and hosts. The infection of a host takes place via skin contact, when a free-swimming cerca-
rian-form of the parasite penetrates to the bloodstream. The organisms follow the blood-
stream of the host to the pelvic and abdominal venules, and mate. Eggs laid by the female
parasite are carried by the bloodstream to lodge in the liver, or in the spleen or the stroma
of other viscera. Eggs reaching the host's bladder and/or bowel cavity are discharged live
in urine or feces; eggs reaching fresh water will hatch tiny free-swimming larvae, or miricidia.
This form of the parasite lives up to 12 hours, and its survival depends on its ability to attack
its intermediate host, the fresh-water snail Biomphalaria giabrata, in Puerto Rico. Inside the
host-snail's body, the Miricidia produce thousands of yet another larva, cercariae, by means
of asexual reproduction. When the cercariae are discharged from the snail-host's body into
fresh water, they swim freely for up to 24 hours. If they can penetrate a human host within
this time, they will migrate to the new host's bloodstream and recommence the human-para-
sitic stage of the life-cycle. Humans are infected only by skin contact with cercariae swimming
in water.
Puerto Rico provides widespread areas which are ideal habitats for the giabrata snail;
fresh-water wetlands with abundant vegetation. It has been usual to ditch and drain marshy
areas in Puerto Rico, and this has created what is probably the perfect situation for perpet-
uation of the snails and the parasite: slow-moving streams with overhanging or grasses. Snails
which fall into the ditches or streams attached to leaves are transported live for long distances,
thus spreading the contamination. The snail possesses the ability to estivate, and thus survive
dry spells which may make its habitat temporarily inhospitable. Molluscicides directed against
the snails in an attempt to break the parasite's life cycle have been unsuccessful, and in any
case pose a danger to other organisms in the area of application.
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Along with attempts to eliminate B. glabrata snails by means of pesticides, the
Commonwealth Department of Health has made several attempts in the past to employ
biological weapons against the Schistosoma-hosting snails. Those attempts have involved
the seeding of island waters with the snail Marisa Cornuarietis, a larger mollusc which is
B. g/abrata's natural enemy. In theory the M. Cornuarietis snails should attack the B.
glagrata population for food, eventually reducing their numbers and lowering the viability
of the Schistosoma life cycle. However, these attempts have proven unsuccessful for the
most part, since M. Cornuarietis is easily washed from seeded areas by currents in streams
and rivers, and not even continual reseeding of its populations has maintained a large enough
concentration to hamper the B. glabrata infestation. Though it is possible that this campaign
might be sucoesful in relative ly small bodies of still water such as farm ponds, it would be
of little effect against the islandwide community of B. glabrata, and against the Schistosoma
problem, since most human sewage is deposited in moving, rather than static, water bodies.
The San Juan Tropical Disease Laboratory of the USPHS has stated than the snail-seeding
procedure is probably not a promising line of attack.
Since attempts to eliminate the snails have failed, and it is clearly impossible to
cordon off the population of the island from the surface waters, it seems that the only
means of controlling the disease is through control of the sewage-polluted waters which
harbor the eggs. This pollution is the result of insufficient sewage treatment procedures,
either in the case of inadequate facilities such as latrines or septic tanks overflowing or
leaking, or in the case of overloaded or unsophisticated treatment plants.
Even highly efficient systems providing secondary treatment, such as trickling
filter or activated sludge plants, have been found to discharge quantities of schistosoma
eggs. For example, in 1964 the Aguas Buenas truckling filter plant, a modern facility
capable of 94 percent BOD reduction, passed about 4,000 eggs per day (or 1.5 million per
year) into the upper Rfo Bairoa. Likewise the activated sludge plant in Gurabo, with a 98
percent BOD reduction capability, released 10,000 eggs daily (3.5 million per year) into
Rfo Gurabo. A less efficient primary plant with about 20 percent BOD reduction capabi
lity, released 360,000 eggs per day or 130 million per year. It has been observed in Aibo-
nito that the majority of Bilharzia-infected persons live within two kilometers downstream
from the Aibonito activated sludge plant.
Until the present, nothing has been done to improve the situation except certain
investigations into the feasibility of Schistosoma egg control. It has been observed that
chlorination kills the eggs; in some cases, a concentration of 2.4 mg/1 has been sufficient
to kill the eggs. Effluent chlorination is probably the best potential means of securing
treatment plants against Schistosoma egg discharge. Other effective forms of treatment,
such as effluent ozonation, will probably be developed and implemented in the near
future. More pressing, however, is the need for improved sanitary latrines and septic
tanks in areas where the disease is endemic, for it is in these rural areas that Schistosoma
sis does most damage.
II 77
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FIGURE 11-19: SCHISTOSOMIASIS PREVALENCE RATES IN PUERTO RICO*
A T L A N T I C
MAYAGUE
VIEQUES ISLAND
CA R I BBEAN
SEA
0 10
1 L_
20 Miles
f j 0 - 4 9%
5 - 9.9%
10 - 14 9%
IlliiMH IS - 19.9%
Wffl 20 % or mon
*By watershed area, according to random sample skin
test survey of 9,365 fifth grade children, 1969.
Source: Ernesto Ruiz Tiben, etal., "The 1969 Schistosomiasis Skin
Test in Puerto Rico," BoTetin de Asociacion Medico de Puerto
Rico, XLV, 7{July 1973), p. 172. "
II 78
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Intestinal Parasites
The most common intestinal parasites in Puerto Rico are heiminthine worms which
are transmitted by mouth contact as eggs. Drinking infested water or making contact with
a contaminated surface can pass the disease into the sufferer's body. The three most common
of these organisms in the island are Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichuria and hookworm.
A survey of school children by the USPHS in Puerto Rico (18 municipalities) revealed
a prevalance of 74.7 percent of the sample group suffering from Trichuriasis, 13.4 per cent
with Ascariasis, and 12.1 per cent with hookworm. The diseases appear to have either re-
mained stable in incidence or increased in prevalence since sampling began in 1930.
White effective drugs against Ascariasis and hookworm exist, no such medication is
available for treatment of the more prevalent Trichuriasis. As with Schistosomiasis, the
effects of the diseases are debilitation, lowered resistance, and inertia. And, as with Schis-
tosomiasis, it is only recently that such diseases were regarded as a major public health
problem in Puerto Rico.
As with Schistosomiasis, the intestinal worm diseases affect rural areas the most
heavily. White the most promising line of attack against schistosomiasis seems to be imple-
mentation of improved sewerage facilities, these mouth-contact infective diseases will have
to be fought with domestic sanitary practices as well as public works.
Waste Nater Reuse
General
With an average of 69 inches of rainfalf per year, Puerto Rico has an abundance
of total water supply. However, this rainfall is not supplied uniformly over the island, nor
does it occur uniformly throughout the year. In fact, the entire south coast from Cabo Rojo
to Patillas is deficient in total water availability. On the southwest, most surface water
supplies have been used for irrigation and municipal water supply. Ground water furnishes
some municipal and agricultural needs and much of the industrial supplies. Little safe-yield
ground water remains unused.
Still, population in the area continues to increase, and many heavy water-using in-
dustries have located on the south coast. Industrial expansion is expected to create demands
in excess of presently available supplies. Three possible sources of additional water exist:
diversions from the water-rich north coast, desalination, and reuse of waste water.
Water reuse already occurs when wastewater from one community is discharged
directly or indirectly (from septic tanks, etc.) into a stream or ground water supply that
is subsequently used by another community, industry, or individual as a source of water
supply. Some wastewater from sugar mills is also now used for irrigation of cane fields. .
Despite these instances, most fresh water in Puerto Rico is used only once and is then dis-
charged for eventual release to the oceans. There is ample opportunity for additional reuse
of water in Puerto Rico, particularly on the south coast. The major potential methods are
discussed below.
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Groundwater Recharge and Irrigation
Wastewater that has received adequate treatment may be used for groundwater
recharge by (1) intermittent spreading on soil or artifical sand filters, (2) by sprinkler
irrigation, and (3) by direct injection into recharge wells. Direct injection into wells is used
primarily as a means of preventing salt water intrusion. Injected water mixes with water
in the aquifer without benefit of first percolating through the soil to achieve greater puri-
fication. Hence, spreading of wastewater on soil is generally preferable to injection.
Intermittent spreading of wastewaters on soil is used primarily for groundwater re-
charge although it may be used for irrigation when suitable crops are available. However,
the large acreage requirements, and possible production of midly offensive odors, mosquitoes,
and weed growth make this method practicable in only a few areas.
Sprinklers are primarily used when irrigation rather than groundwater recharge is the
main purpose. Although recharge occurs, much of the wastewater is lost to evaporation and
transpiration.
Agricultural Irrigation
Treated municipal effluents have been used for irrigation in many parts of the world.
Most of this irrigation is primarily for water supply although some humid areas irrigate with
municipal effluents for nutrient supplements. Municipal effluent irrigation is generally not
recommended for crops that will be directly consumed such as most vegetable crops. Local
soil conditions are extremely important in determining whether an area is suitable for this
type of irrigation. Generally, a pilot study should be conducted before full scale operations
are initiated. The greatest drawback to the use of municipal effluents for agricultural irri-
gation is uncertainty as to long-term effects on soil conditions and ground water quality
{this applies equally to all ground water recharge.) A build-up of some nutrients, notably
nitrogen, or solids may occur.
Industrial Process Water
Large water using industries such as petrochemical plants, refineries, paper mills etc.
can sometimes use treated municipal wastewater for certain of their operations. Many
industries, however, such as food processing plants and electronic equipment manufacturing,
require a higher quality water than can normally be achieved from a municipal effluent. Mu-
nicipal wastewater use in industrial operations will, therefore, depend upon the type of indus-
tries present,their water quality requirements, and the water quality achieveable at the muni-
cipal treatment facility.
Another type of industrial water reuse is in plant recirculation. Most large water-
using industries practice this type of water conservation to some extent but rarely to the
degree possible. An example of reduction in total water requirements is that obtained
by the Kaiser Steel plant at Fontana, California. Through the use of recirculation and
11-80
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treatment of industrial effluents, this plant requires only 4,000 gallons of water per ton of
steel production compared to a national average of 65,000 gallons per ton.
This type of industrial water reuse should be required of all future industrial plants
locating on the water-deficient south coast. Existing industries should be encouraged to
improve or modify their processes to require less total water.
Cooling Water
Although in many areas water reuse has its greatest application in supplying water
for dissipation of excess heat during industrial processes, this use will have little value in
Puerto Rico. Most industries in Puerto Rico which require large quantities of cooling water,
principally steamelectric power plants, are located on the coast and utilize sea v\srter for cooling.
The probable need for water reuse on the south coast of Puerto Rico has been much
discussed but little has been accomplished to date. A 1971 study* performed for PRASA
examined the potential for municipal wastewater reuse in the area between Gu3nica and
Patillas. This study found that the most feasible uses of reclaimed wastewater are for indus-
trial water and groundwater recharge, only the Guayama and Ponce municipal systems were
viewed as having potencial for wastewater reclamation and only Ponce would produce
enough wastewater for immediate use. The study also conclude that reclaimed wastewater
could not compete economically as a source of supply with large surface water developments
such as the Toa Vaca project. However, if smaller-scale projects were adopted to supply future
water supplies then reclaimed wastewater would become competitive.
Conclusions
The current status of water supply projects in Puerto Rico suggest that additional
study and consideration be given to using reclaimed wastewater. An integrated policy of
developing water supplies should be pursued that includes wastewater reclamation as an
essential component of the total water supply program. Existing and potential markets for
reclaimed wastewater should be surveyed and kept up to date. Research should be carried
out and pilot projects began to determine more precisely the potential for groundwater re-
charge and agricultural irrigation.
These research studies and pilot projects should cover, in addition to the south coastal
area, areas in the interior of the island. Projections of future wastewater volumes show, when
evaluated in terms of river assimilation capacity, that many of the small rivers in the island's
interior will be unable to accomodate future waste loads under low flow conditions with
standard secondary treatment. In such cases, either costly and difficult- to maintain tertiary
treatment will be required, or some form of secondary treatment with subsequent land dis-
posal may have to be introduced. Although this situation is not now pressing, it should be
anticipated, and research should begin immediately to determine the best means of hand-
ling this problem.
' (Wastewatei Reclaimation Reconaissance Study: Ponce Region and Wastewater Reclamation as a Water Supply: Ponce,
prepared by Development and Resources Corporation and PRASA, November, 1971.)
II-8I
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In this report, rio specific recommendations for wastewater reuse are made. Also,
no recommendations for treatment beyond standard secondary level are made. These
subjects will be given more detailed attention in studies under the Continuing Planning
Process subsequent to this report.
SEAPORT- AND SHIPPING-RE LA TED POLLUTION
General
Pollution related to shipping and the operation of seaports is a serious problem in
Puerto Rico. By far the most important aspect of the pollution hazards involved is that
of chemical and petroleum spills, though discharges of sanitary wastes and in-place pollution
are also occasionally troublesome.
The most important seaport in Puerto Rico is San Juan, the capital, which is the
is the island's natural harbor. Next in order to importance are Guayahilla, Ponce, Maya-
guez , Yabucoa and Aguirre on Jobos Bay. All these ports sustain a heavy traffic in petro-
leum or chemical cargoes, or both. Much of the material transferred in these ports can be
considered " hazardous" due to toxicity, flammability, or other considerations. San Juan
transfers about 10 million tons of cargo annually, with an average 480 entries by ships and
barges each month. Guayanilla transfers more cargo, almost 14 million tons a year, but with
an average of only about 60 entries per month. Guayanilla handles the majority of hazar-
dous materials; San Juan passes 350 vessels and 325,000 tons of hazardous material a month,
while the CORCO refinery (including entries at Tallaboa-Penuelas as well as Guayanilla Bay)
handles a million tons of petroleum alone. San Juan's petroleum traffic amounts to about
two-thirds of its hazardous-cargoes trade, and less than 10 percent of its entries. Other hazar-
dous matter is regularly passed th'rough Puerto Rican ports; for example, Ponce receives 2,500
tons per quarter (in three barges) of the highly toxic gasoline additive tetraethyl lead.
Regulation
Regulatory measures in law concerning seaports and shipping exist on the Common-
wealth and federal levels. The Commonwealth's Law No.9, which empowers the EQB to
abate pollution, is a general statement of powers and intent which requires EQB to observe
ports and coastal waters for violations of sanitary and water quality regulations. Common-
wealth agencies do not carry out surveillance against pollution from shipping, however.
Sampling is irregularly carried out by EQB. The Ports Authority and Coast Guard issue
appropriate declarations and warnings to regulate shipping and cargo handling in the Ports-
There is a Puerto Rico. Marine Police Force which might perform useful enforcement activities,
but it is severely understaffed and underequipped, deploying only three launches for the north-
eastern coastal area, including San Juan harbor. There are Commonwealth regulations against
untreated sanitary discharges which apply to shipping as well as land sources.
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Federal agencies are empowered to act against marine and harbor water pollution
by the Marine Protection, Research and Sanitary Act of 1970 (PL 92 532), which prohi
bits the discharging of untreated sewage and toxic, flammable, explosive or chemical sub-
stances within US territorial waters. The USEPA is the agency empowered to act against
offenders, while the US Coast Guard is the federal surveillance and enforcement agency.
The Coast Guard carries out weekly surveillance flights in light aircraft to observe the state
harbors and coastal waters, and employs helicopter observation against known spills and
unauthorized discharges. USCG activities are devoted almost completely to observation and
abatement of spills and discharges of chemical or petroleum substances from shipping and
shore points; the Coast Guard does not monitor sanitary wastes or ballast discharges from
shipping, but will act against offenders if detected.
Oil Spills
Oil spills are the most important cause of water pollution in Puerto Rico's seaports.
During Fiscal Year 1974, there were 327 oil spills in Puerto Rico's harbors and coastal
waters. This figure represents pollution reports investigated by the Coast Guard.
The largest oil spill in Puerto Rican history took place in 1968 when tankship
Ocean Eagle grounded off San Juan harbor, spilling several thousand tons of oil from
her bunkers. The worst spill in Fiscal Year 1974 was the grounding of the tankship
Zoe Co/ocotronis off Guayanilla, with the loss of 8,000 barrels of oil. A spill of lesser
quantity, though possibly worse in environmental effects, was the loss of 6,000 barrels
of fuel from a power plant loading point at Aguirre on Jobos Bay.
Oil spills of almost any quantity are a severe hazard to the environment, due to the
fact that soluble fractions of petroleum will separate from the mass of the spill, sink to the
bottom of the water body involved, and poison the entire biosystem in the area of the spill.
It is not known how long these effects may last, or if they may be, in fact, permanent in
the case of many species of marine life. The esthetic ill effects of oil spills, and the hazards
of fire and poisoning of riparian life are also very severe.
Maritime Hazards
Hazardous conditions in Puerto Rico's harbors represent a potential cause of pollution.
Principal harbors in the island suffer from a combination of heavy ship traffic and difficult
navigating conditions. San Juan harbor, the largest in the island, is plagued by poor visibi-
lity, a sharp turn in its main channel, offshore reefs and generally crowded conditions. The
harbor is capable of handling ships of more than 60,000 tons-plus (standard displacement)
as the presence of such ships as RMS Queen Elizabeth II and USS Coral Sea testifies, but
in practice, such large ships pose a serious danger in a harbor poorly supplied with tugs and
with little manuvering room. It is impossible to see the approaches to the Bay from the inner
harbor, due to the elevation of Isla de San Juan, and approaching vessels to seaward must be
warned of the presence of outgoing traffic by radio or semaphore from a lookout station on
the San Cristobal fortress in Old San Juan. The harbors of Ponce, Guayanilla and Jobos are
difficult to approach because of the presence of offshore reefs and generally shallow condi-
tions. It is clear that collisions or groundings pose an additional danger of oil spills or con-
tamination of Puerto Rico's waters with hazardous materials.
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Oil Spill Contingency Planning
Plans for action in the event of oil spills have been formulated by individual
industries, by the federal government, and by the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
In August, 1973, the latest revised version of the US Council on Environmental
Quality's National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan (Federal
Register 38:155 part II) appeared. In July, 1974, the latest version of the USCG
Sub-Regional Contingency Plan against oil spills for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands
was circulated. The EQB produced an Oil or Hazardous Material Spill Contingency Plan
for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico in November, 1971; this version has stood since
then as the basis for the Commonwealth's response to spills, along with the federal doc
uments.
Plans of action include an inventory of containment and recovery equipment
(booms, pumps, skimmers, etc.) and the entities operating them, and plans for notifi
cation, containment, cleanup/disposal and recovery operations. There are provisions
for mobilizing various government agencies against spills of oil or hazardous materials
(e.g.. Civil Defense, in case of explosion, fire or toxic contamination danger) but, in
general, the EQB, Coast Guard and USEPA are the agencies primarily concerned with
spills in Puerto Rico.
Recommendations
Closer cooperation between Commonwealth and federal agencies will be essential,
especially between EQB and the USEPA and Coast Guard. The Coast Guard urgently
requires expansion of forces and facilities in order to deal with the growing problem of
marine and harbor pollution, especially oil spills. In particular, the Coast Guard should
be supplied with more and improved equipment for use against oil spills, such as retaining
booms, tenders, and appliances for dispensing chemicals, manipulating booms, etc.. A
Coast Guard Base should be established on the south coast of the island, at Ponce or Guaya-
.nilla, and equipped with necessary staff, equipment and water- and aircraft to carry out
surveillance and abatement activities. In addition, the Puerto Rico Marine Police might
be expanded to assist the USCG in coastal areas and harbors. Provision of fireboats for
ports sustaining heavy petroleum and hazardous-cargo traffic should be considered.
The EQB should update its oil spill contingency planning. EQB should also ex-
pand its training activities to provide more trained personnel for abatement of and re-
covery from spills.
The implementation of recommendations presented in this report should result
in significant improvements in the quality of affected water bodies. However, a deter-
mination of the impact of pollution control measures cannot be made unless an effec-
tive water quality surveillance program exists. The USCG, in its cooperative program
with the EQB, maintains permanent sampling stations and a regular sampling schedule
for inland waters. The EQB recently began regular (bimonthly) monitoring of coastal
water quality at a series of permanent stations. Other water quality data is obtained
during special short-term studies of particular water bodies. Until recently, the EQB
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monitoring program was a cooperative effort with the Department of Health. The
EQB was responsible for overall program development, but most sampling and ana
lysis was performed by Department of Health personnel. The EQB now operates
its monitoring program independently.
An improved EQB monitoring program is needed. This program should be
designed to (1) detect short and long term trends and variations in water quality,
with particular attention given to standards violations, and (2) obtain basic data
for updating water quality management plans, setting effluent limits, and determining
proper water quality classifications. The program should cover ail major rivers, lakes,
lagoons, bays, and coastal areas.
The monitoring program should include, as a minimum, the following:
1. The establishment of a comprehensive network of permanent water quality
monitoring stations. Sampling frequencies at each of these stations should be deter
mined on the basis of stream quality resulting from seasonal, tidal and climatic influen-
ces, stream flow, and biological and pollution source cycles and variations. Monitoring
stations should be located upstream and downstream from major point and non-point
sources of pollution and in areas unaffected by known sources. Streamflow should be
determined at each station at the same frequency as water quality sampling. Para-
meters should be sampled to monitor pollutants which are known to exist in the
area, or are suspected to be present due to the types of industries present or local land
use practices. Parameters should also be measured which indicate the suitability of
water quality for specific designated uses, including the protection and propagation of
fish and wildlife, and recreation in and on the water.
2. A systematic plan for performing intensive field studies on major water bodies
to describe water quality conditions in critical climatological or hydrological seasons.
These field studies should be sufficient to obtain simultaneous measurements of instream
water quality, effluent discharge volume and quality, stream flow, and other factors affect-
ing water quality, Data collected shQuld facilitate the estimation of relative effects of each
pollution source on observed water quality. An identification and description of water
quality should be made as it relates to applicable water quality standards. The field studies
should determine or reevaluate the location, sampling patterns, and parameters to be measured
for permanent stations. Each intensive study should also include an identification and cha-
racterization of non-point sources in the area.
3. A program of periodic sampling of industrial effluents and discharges from muni-
cipal treatment plants. This type of monitoring should supplement and serve as a check on
data supplied by industries and PRASA. Parameters should be selected to cover particular
pollutants expected to occur at the various sources.
Reports on the various monitoring activities should be made available as rapidly
as possible to enable adequate evaluation of pollution control efforts and aid in future
planning.
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CHAPTER III. MANAGEMENT REGIONS
Regional Delineation
Though Puerto Rico is relatively small and possesses the geographical integrity
of an island, it is still large enough to make planning on a purely islandwide basis un-
wieldy. Conditions of climate, terrain, etc. were quite variable within even this small
island, and these variations had to be compensated for. The greater bulk of data assem-
bled for the WQMP was organized on the basis of municipios, the county-like political
entities on which the local governments of Puerto Rico are based. This system lent itself
better to regional than to islandwide organization.
The regional delineation chosen for the WQMP represents a compromise between
attention to natural conditions and to socio-economic considerations. The regions were
established on the basis of:
—municipio boundaries;
—watershed boundaries, in some cases;
—feasibility of construction of facilities;
—population concentration;
—industrial concentration;
—land use
—existing infrastructures of government, transportation, water supply and
sewerage facilities.
With these conditions in mind, municipios were organized into 13 management
regions, 12 on the island and one encompassing the offshore islands of Vieques and
Culebra. The regions thus organized offer the optimum possibility of applying regio-
nalized waste treatment to these areas with minimal necessity of transporting waste-
water between regions. Deviations from hydrologic boundaries, where they occur,
are of two kinds:
1. Headwaters of streams often lie outside a management region through
which the stream flows. In these cases, no portion of any stream involved is large,
nor are there any significant sources of pollution on the stream portion involved.
2. In some cases, regional boundaries follow river courses since the region-
al boundary is likely to be a political boundary laid out in this fashion. In the
case of major rivers where this occurs, most of the river's drainage is to the region into
which the river eventually flows.
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The 13 regions are identified by the most prominent rhunicipio they contain.
Counterclockwise around the island, starting at the Northeast tip, they are: Fajardo,
San Juan, Caguas (inland), Dorado, Barceloneta, Arecibo, Aguadilla, Mayaguez, Guaya
nilla, Ponce, Guayama, Humacao, and offshore Islands (see Figure 1111).
Alternative Wastewater Management Systems
In order to formulate alternative solutions to water quality problems numerous
considerations were evaluated for each of the thirteen management regions. Each region-
al evaluation included the following considerations:
-physical and socioeconomic conditions;
-existing municipal wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal facilities;
-industrial discharges;
-water quality problems in streams, lakes, bays, and ocean areas;
-low streamflow levels;
- present and future land use;
-existing and projected population;
For each region a number of possible wastewater management systems were
formulated. Many of the alternatives solutions were quickly eliminated from further
consideration because of seriously objectionable environmental, social, construction,
or economic problems.
Remaining alternatives were examined in greater detail. Cost estimates were
prepared for each alternative. After a final evaluation of each alternative, one alter-
native was selected that appeared to provide the greatest long-term benefits with
respect to legal, environmental, social, construction, and economic considerations.
In many cases the initially least-expensive solution was not considered to be the
best long-term, cost-effective sollution. Envirpnmental problems, higher operation
and maintenance cost, projected development, or other factors sometimes prevented
the least initial cost alternative from being selected as the recommended wastewater
management system.
In general, it was considered actantagaous to develop regional systems where-
ever possible. Individual systems for each urban area generally have the lowest
initial construction cost, but have relatively high operation and maintenance costs,
result in a large number of discharge points that are difficult and expensive to moni-
tor, cause administrative problems, and frequently result in pollution problems due
to inadequate discharge points. Regional systems, although having an initially higher
cost, usually have lower operation and maintenance cost; serve a greater population;
are better suited for expansion and phased construction and can be located at suitable
discharge points.
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After selection of the recommended wastewater management alternative for
each region, which usually included a combination of regional and local systems,
construction priorities were indicated for the various system components within each
region. Necessary interim measures were indicated and preliminary determination
of requirements for major industrial discharges were also given. Construction and
operation and maintenance cost estimates and maps of the recommended systems
were prepared for each region. -An islandwide summary is given at the end of the
chapter.
Additional statements regarding some of the planning precepts of this
chapter (and report) are approparte. This is a general water-quality management
plan for the entire island of Puerto 'Rico. Its-purpose is to develop water quality
management techniques that can be implemsnted It is in no way an engineering
plan. Specific details in this plan relating to wastewater facilities should not be
taken as final. The detailed requirements for each facility will be determined in
subsequent regional plans and individual engineeringfacilities plan.
The treatment plant site locations, routes for sewer lines, placement of
pumping stations, and outfall locations are general locations only. Detailed
engineering studies will be required to determine the exact locations of each of
these components. Similarly, the sites given for sewer and treatment plants are
based on population and wastewater estimates best suited to general plan deve-
lopment.
Throughout this chapter, activated Sludge plants were used as a basis
for preparing cost estimates for the recommended treatment plants (except
where costs were given for expansion of an-existing trrcklrng f ilter plant). This
is not a recommendation for-exclusive use of activated sludge plants over trick-
ling filters, but rather a cost estimating procedure. The actual type of plant
best suited for a particular area will be determined byan-engineering study. In
determining cost estimates "for ocean outfalls, and outfall length ratio of one
mile of distance to-60 feet of depth was tmed, whichever was shortest. The actual
length will have to be determined based on oeeanographicstudies, current meas-
urements, and plume dispersion cahajtotiornrto ensure "that water quality stan-
dards are met.
At the time of plan preparation, wry tittle data was available concerning
the numerous rural communities in Puerto Rico,^especially their potential for
futuregrowth. Consequently/onlythBseruralxorrrmunrties withthelargest
present population were included in our recommendations end cost estimates.
Other rural communities may well need sewerage facilities now or in the future,
but this must be determined thro^h future studies. No cost estimates were
prepared for construction of latere Isewera in^iftwrthe rurel corrrmunities or
the major towns.
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Fajardo Region:
Physical System
Topography: The region is the smallest of the management regions, occu-
pying only three municipios on the extreme northeast of the island. The topogra-
phy is generally a series of small valleys created by streams and an interrupted coast-
al plain with some occurrence of beaches and lagoons or marshes at the coasts.
Geology: The uplands in the western interior are foothills of the Sierra de
Luquillo, predominantly volcanic in composition. The coastal plain is overlain
by unconsolidated deposits of volcanic origin and alluvial distribution. The beach
rock deposits which occur abundantly on the costs are of silica cemented with
carbonates.
Hydrology: There are three principal rivers in the region: Rfo Mameyes,
Ri'o Fajardo and Rfo Sabana. Networks of many smaller streams drain into each.
The area is relatively poor in ground water, though rich in surface waters.
Climate: Rainfall varies from 70 inches at the coast to about 140 indies
per year inland near El Yunque rain forest. The region lies to the windward side
of the island and trade winds are steady and strong. Temperatures and evapo-
transpiration are not extraordinary, and in fact are relatively mild.
Oceanography: On the north coast, dynamic oceanography is dominated
by the North Equatorial Current passing offshore 5-8 miles. Wind-generated and
local tidal currents predominate on the east coast. A system of small cays lies off
the northeast extremity of the region and across the continental shelf between
Puerto Rico and Isla de Culebra to the east.
Socioeconomic Aspects
The Fajardo region encompasses a total land area of 84 square miles, which
is approximately 2.5 percent of the total land area of Puerto Rico, making it the
second smallest management region. It includes the municipios of Fajardo, Luquillo
and Ceiba. Fajardo is the greatest of the threp in size, population and degree of
urbanization. It has a total population of 23,032 inhabitants, of which close to
80 percent are classified as urban. This trend toward greater urbanization is expec-
ted to continue. The'town of Fajardo has the greatest potential for industriali-
zation.
The municipios of Ceiba and Luquillo together have less population than
Fajardo, approximately 20,700 persons. They are also more rural in character;
total urban pdpulation for both municipios is approximately 5,500 persons, or
25 percent of total population. In Ceiba, growth and urban expansion have been
deterred by the vast amount of land belonging to the Roosevelt Roads Navaf
complex, whereas Luquillo town has been limited in its growth by the nearby
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85° 45'
FIGURE III-25 FAJARDO MANAGEMENT REGION
IMfAN A«AB
fORt»T ARC A3
frr CONSERVATION AREAS
LAKC9 « IAOOONS
o
INDUSTRIES
Q PRIMARY TREATMENT RIANT
A SECONDARY TREATMENT RLANT
«»•¦» SOUNDARY OF RE«ION
RO AOS
l»*U'SOa
0 Kl.
0 Ml.
10
»ri-0
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floodable and marshy lands, as well as by land under Federal jurisdiction in the El
Yunque State Forest.
Like most of the island of Puerto Rico, the Fajardo region has experienceo
rapid economic growth and social change. The northeast Development Plan prepared
by the Puerto Rico Planning Board has identified this region as one of the more im-
portant centers for the decentralization and expansion of basically tourist-oriented
recreational and vacational facilities. This region contains some of the finest beaches
on the island, the El Yunque Rain Forest, vast scenic resources, fishing and water
sports facilities which make tourism one of the main economic activities of the region.
Other facilities such as the El Conquistador Hotel, Las Croabas Balneario, Las Colinas
Balneario (under construction) and El Convento Balneario (proposed) further illus-
trate the importance of tourism and recreation.
Light industry in the area also accounts for a significant amount of employ-
ment and income. Fomento plans for the area indicate a greater increase of activity
in this sector. The agricultural sector, however, has shown a significant reduction
in employment and income, as has commercial fishing. Land has also been withdrawn
from cultivation for other, more lucrative uses.
The main transportation link which connects the region with the San Juan
Metropolitan Area (SJMA), approximately 50 miles from the region, is State Road
No. 3. The region is also easily accesible by sea, and is a port of entry for passen-
gers and freight to Puerto Rico from other islands. Consideration has been given
to the construction of airport facilities within the municipio of Fajardo which
would also aid in the tourism industry.
The Fajardo Region is shown in Figure 111-2.
Rivers and Interior Waters
Rfo Mameyes, Rfo Sabana, Rfo Fajardo, Rfo Demajagua, Rfo Ceiba,
Quebrada Aguas Claras, and Rfo Daguao are the rivers in the region. The most im-
portant and largest is Rfo Fajardo.
At only one point along Rfo Fajardo«are BOD and DO standards violated.
On the other hand, the coliform standard is violated along the course of the river,
except near the headwaters. Comparison of the results of the Sanitary Survey of
Fajardo Bay (including Playa Sardinera and Las Croabas) conducted in December
1969, with those of A Water Quality Study of the Fajardo River, conducted in
October 1971, shows that the pollution of the river has increased significantly
upstream of the Fajardo sewage treatment plant. The average BOD increased al-
most four times, coliforms twenty times, and DO remained approximately the
same. The DO, BOD, and coliform profiles show river conditions when the Cen-
tral Fajardo sugar mill was not operating. (Figure III-2).
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None of the other rivers or streams in the region have been sampled for
biological analyses and only limited information is available from USGS records
on chemical and physical analyses.
Coastal Waters
BAHIA DE FAJARDO and BAHIA SARDINERA
Neither BOD nor DO standards are violated in these waters. In fact they
have among the highest water quality in the island. The rest of the coastal waters
and the lagoons in the area have not been studied to determine water quality. How-
ever, since there are no point sources discharging directly into them, it is assumed
that their quality complies with standards.
Fajardo Region Alternatives
Alternative I - Local Facilities
Although the higher elevations of the Fajardo region receive relatively abun-
dant and reliable rainfall, the rivers of the region have small drainage areas and, conse-
quently, cannot support heavy wasteloads under low flow conditions. Quebrada Ceiba
is not presently able to properly dilute the waste it receives. R fo Fajardo low flow
conditions would require extended secondary or tertiary treatment of wastes by
1990 during seasons when the Fajardo sugar mill is not operating. It cannot handle
any additional waste load during the sugar mill season, even if wastewaters from the
sugar mill are highly treated prior to discharge. Rfo Mameyes also has acute low
flow conditions plus the presence of a salt water wedje and sand bar formation.
These river conditions preclude continued waste discharge to any of the
region's rivers. Ocean disposal is required. The high cost and other disadvantages
of providing several ocean outfalls in the area make a continuation of local facili-
ties unacceptable.
Alternative II - Regional System
Since river disposal is unacceptable sf\d multiple ocean outfalls are to be
avoided, a regional facility is indicated. Twelve road miles separate Luquillo from
Ceiba, but the topography is level and the intervening areas are expected to become
intensively developed. No engineering or other difficulties exist that would prevent
development of a regional system.
Since Ceiba is expected to have the lowest population and has the highest
elevation of the three towns, it was rejected as the site for a treatment plant and
ocean disposal. Although no oceanographic data is available, areas near Fajardo
and Luquillo could probably be used for ocean disposal. Estimated costs for cons-
tructing facilities near Luquillo is $12,511,000 and $12,325,000 if they are built
near Fajardo, Projected waste volumes are shown in Table 111-3.
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Fajardo Region Abatement Strategy
The recommended system for Fajardo is shown in figure 111-4. This system
consists of trunk lines from Ceiba and Fajardo and from Luquillo Beach on the west
to a regional secondary treatment plant and ocean outfall located near Luquillo. Cost
of the regional system is given in Table 111-4.
Construction of this regional treatment plant will eliminate wastes now inade-
quately treated at Ceiba. It will also remove wastes currently discharged to R fo
Fajardo and Rfo Mameyes. Removal of wastes from Rfo Mameyes should result in an
improvement in water quality in the river since organic matter will no longer be depo-
sited on the river bottom. Removal of wastes from Rfo Fajardo will result in signifi-
cant water quality improvement during about one half of each year, when the sugar
cane mill is not operating. Permanent year-round water
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TABLE 111-4:
Cost Estimates: Fajardo Recommended Sewerage System
Project description: Cost ( $ 000's)
Ceiba intercepting sewer: #
6 ,500 lineal meters, concrete pipe 'J-jj
Ceiba pumping station T
Fajardo intercepting sewer: _
10,300 lineal meters, concrete pipe 180
Fajardo pumping station g ^ 27156
Luquillo intercepting sewer:
2,500 lineal, meters, concrete pipe
6 MGD activated sludge treatment plant 4,147
(6 MGD primary treatment plant - 1,750)
500 lineal meters, concrete pipe - treatment plant
site to ocean outfall
1,600 lineal meters, concrete pipe - ocean outfall 1,920
Fajardo Region facility, Sub-Total 9,624
30% contingency cost 2 , 8S7
Total$12 ,511
Annual Operation and Maintenance cost:
6 MGD activated sludge treatment plant $ 2.1*0
MGD primary treatment plant - 8 0)
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Independent Point Source Discharges
Central Fajardo is a major sugar cane mill and the only mill operating in the
northeast of the island. During the sugar cane season it discharges about 5.7 mgd of
wastewaters to Rfo Fajardo. Although this waste receives treatment in an oxidation
pond, there is still a great waste load imposed on the river. Bottom samples and other
applicable measurements should be made to determine the actual effect of these wastes
on Rfo Fajardo. The maximum load which Rfo Fajardo can accept must be determined
and a permit issued to the Central in accordance with statements made earlier in this
report and applicable regulations. All or part of the waste could be discharged to the
ocean after proper treatment and oceanographic studies. As much waste as possible
should be removed from Rfo Fajardo.
The concrete and cement industries must provide settling basins or other
necessary means to prevent large concentrations of dissolved and suspended matter
in river waters.
Fajardo Region Implementation Schedule
Priorities
Because of severely overloaded conditions, low level of treatment and limi-
ted dilution waters, the Ceiba wastes deserve first attention. However, Ceiba's loca-
tion south of Fajardo means that the Ceiba and Fajardo Trunk lines will be construc-
ted at the same time. No economic loss will result from this situation since the Fajar-
do plant will also be overloaded by the time the trunk lines, treatment plant, and
ocean outfall are constructed. Construction should begin on each of these phases
of the overall project so that all parts of the system will become operational at the
same time.
Waste volumes at the Luquillo plant may not exceed plant capacity at the
time the regional plant is built. However, conditions in Rfo Mameyes are such that
Luquillo wastes should be treated at the regional plant and disposed of through the
ocean outfall as soon as possible. In order to speed development of the regional
system, only the primary phase of the regional plant should be constructed first. The
second (secondary) phase would then be constructed as funds become available.
Interim Measures
While the regional system is under construction, the efficiency of the Luquillo
plant should be improved. Proper operation and maintenance should be provided.
Proper operation and maintenance should result in removal rates of 85 percent or
better compared to the present 75-80 percent.
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San Juan Region:
Physical System:
Topography: A relatively narrow coastal plain lies in the north of the region,
lying between the sea and a foothill zone which is also narrow and extensively broken
and dissected by river action. The region becomes mountainous in the south and east
as it stretches toward the Cordillera Central. An extensive bay and associated lagoon
system exists on the north coast of the region; it is on and around this natural feature
that the San Juan Metropolitan Area (SJMA) lies.
Geology: The mountain regions are made up of volcanic and intrusive rock; the
foothill system to the north is of marine origin and limestone composition. The coastal
plain and lowerlying regions are composed of unconsolidated sediments, dune and allu-
vial deposits overlying deeper formations. Beach rock deposits of great size occur at
intervals along the coast.
Hydrology: Principal rivers in the region are Ri'o Piedras, Rfo Puerto Nuevo,
Rfo Bayam6n and Rfo Grande de Lofza. The first two discharge into Bahi'a de San
Juan; the last two to the North Atlantic.
Rfo Grande de Lofza and its tributaries are the largest river system on the
island (lying partially in the Caguas management region) and been dammed to
create Lago Carrafzo (otherwise Lagode Lofza), a large man-made lake which has
become a center for recreation as well as a reservoir for the San Juan region.
Climate: Rainfall in the region averages 60 inches per year on the coasts and
75 inches inland, with heavier falls occurring in the southeastern mountain zone, which
includes a portion of the El Yunque rain forest. Steady trade winds from the ENE domi-
nate the wind patterns. Temperatures and evapotranspiration are not extraordinary.
Oceanography: Characteristic of north-coast Puerto Rico, the San Juan region
possesses a continental shelf which extends 2-3 miles offshore, and a broad expanse
of nearshore waters with abundant reef and beach rock formations. Currents are domi-
nated by the North Equatorial Current, passing east to west offshore at .3 to .7 kt with
seasonal variations (winter figures low), though winds and tides may combine to create
erratic local currents.
Socioeconomic Aspects
The San Juan region contains the capital of Puerto Rico and is the principal
growth center of the Island. It is made up of the municipios of Catafto, Carolina,
Can6vanas, Bayam6n, Guaynabo, Trujillo Alto, San Juan, Lofza and Rfo Grande.
Located in the north-central part of the Island, it occupies 306 square miles and con-
tains a total population of 912,341 persons; more than three times that of any other
111-19
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management region. It also contains the greatest percentage of urban population, with
almost 90 percent of the population classified as urban.
The SJMA constituted by the municipios of Bayam6n, Catano, Carolina, Guay-
nabo, San Juan and Trujillo Alto has been transformed from a series of isolated small
towns into a great metropolitan area, with a highly accelerated rate of growth. This
situation, as may be expected, has brought many benefits to the area in the form of
industrialization, services, and amenities. But it has also created more need for ser-
vices and facilities, and these in turn become more costly to provide in view of the
fact that the city continues to "sprawl" in low density. Agriculture has given way to
expansions of housing and other nonagricuftural uses. Agricultural lands where once
sugar cane flourished have given way to pasture and woodlands and some minor crops
since farm labor has become scarce. People prefer to work in industry or construc-
tion, and land owners, not being able to mechanize agriculture, have turned to land
speculation.
The municipios of Can6vanas, Lofza, and Rfo Grande constitute the rest of the
region. This section is located to the east of the SJMA along State Road No. 3. Only
6 percent of the regional population resides in this zone of which only 2 percent is
included in total urban population in the region. This area also has a positive rate of
growth having more than doubled in urban population during the decade, but not
yet to the extent of the rest of the region. In 1971, the municipio of Loi'za, the lar-
gest in the region, was subdivided into two separate municipios, Loi'za and Can6vanas.
Agriculture is still important in the region, especially the production of sugar
cane in the coastal plain. The uplands are mainly devoted to dairy farming and pas-
turage. A large area of the municipio of Rfo Grande is devoted to the El Yunque
State Forest.
Industry is slowly taking over the region. These industries include oil refi-
ning, distilling, brewing, construction and the manufacture of cement, textiles, elec-
tronic equipment and machinery. Tourism also accounts for a great percentage of
the income generated in the region.
State Roads No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3 converge in the city of San Juan, and
connect the urban center with the rest of the Island. A series of expressways, ave-
nues and streets crisscross the SJMA uniting the different towns and linking the
suburban residential areas to the centers of employment and recreation.
Traffic congestion is a severe problem in the area and is worsening every
day. For that reason, a mass transit system has been planned for San Juan and is
expected to be in partial use by 1985. The San Juan region also possesses a major
seaport through which passes the majority of Puerto Rico's seaborne traffic. Two
airports are also located here, one an international port of entry, through which
passes most of the island's air traffic.
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The San Juan Region is shown in Figures III 5 and 111-6. Tables II1-5-6
provide information on existing industries and municipal treatment facilities res-
pectively.
Water Quality
Of all the management regions, San Juan Region is by far the most complex
and difficult to analyze in terms of water quality. It encompasses the following
rivers and coastal waters: Rfo de Bayam6n, Rt'o Piedras, Rfo Grande de Lofza, Rio
Herrera and Rfo Esptritu Santo; Ensenada de Boca Vieja, Bah fa de San Juan, Cano
de San Antonio, Laguna del Condado, Cano de Martin Pefia, Laguna San Jos6, La
guna Los Corozos, Canal Sucirez, Laguna La Torrecilla, Laguna de Pinones, Quebrada
Blasina, and the east coast from Rfo de Bayam6n to Rfo Esptritu Santo.
Rivers and Interior Waters
Rfo de Bayam6n
The only available data for Rio de Bayam6n is from a sanitary quality survey
conducted during 1966. Dissolved oxygen falls below standards beginning at a point
approximately 10 miles from its mouth. BOD levels at one station are twice the allow-
able limit and stay high until the river reaches the sea. Coliforms are reported to meet
standards along portions of the river, but for the greater part, many contraventions
occur. Unusually high values for BOD and coliforms and slightly higher DO have been
reported by the USGS which has done recent studies on the river. Thus, it can be
concluded that the quality of the river waters is suffering severe degradation. R fo
Guaynabo is the most important tributary of the Fi'o de Bayam6n according to a 1964
survey. DO falls beiow standards near the mouth as it enters the Rfo de Bayamfin
while the BOD and coliform counts meet standards all along the river. Recent informa-
tion from an EQB Rfo Guaynabo study and the USGS more or less agree with the DO
and BOD profiles, while they show gross violations of the coliform standard. (See
Figure III-7).
Rfo Piedras
According to a 1967 Water Quality Survey of the river, it contravened water
quality standards for DO, BOD and coliforms for almost its entire length. Recent
USGS data shows that further degradation of the waters is occuring as proved by the
excessive coliform count and BOD in the area. Rfo Piedras is the most polluted
stream in the region and the entire island. (See Figure 111-8).
Rfo Grande de Lofza
Rfo Grande de Lofza is one of the island's largest rivers in terms of discharge.
The river is divided by the Carrafzo Dam into two portions which fall into two
different management regions, San Juan and Caguas. Only that part of R fo Grande
de Lofza downstream from Lago Carrafzo falls within the San Juan Region.
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Very little information is available on the water quality of the river down-
stream from the dam other than a 1966 Water Quality Survey and unpublished
1973 data from EQB.
According to the 1966 study, BOD, DO and coliform standards are contra-
vened for the entire stretch of river under consideration. The oxygen concentration
varied from 0.7 to 4.3 mg/l during 1966 while presently surface dissolved oxygen
often showed supersaturated conditions. Extremely high DO values are an indica-
tion of the instability of the river. They are usually coupled with low oxygen values at
night which approach complete depletion. This fact is related to the algal bloom in
the river caused by eutrophication problems During the day plants generate quantities
of oxygen by photosynthetic reaction which make oxygen levels reach supersaturation.
(See Figures ! 11-9 and 111-12).
Rfo Herrera
The only water quality information available on Rfo Herrera is from the un-
published 1972 EQB study. It indicates that Rfo Herrera lacks distinct dissolved
oxygen stratification. Lowest DO values actually occurred at the surface associated
with a thick mat of water hyacinths. DO concentrations were generally below stan-
dards, transparency very low, and an extensive sand bar existed at the river mouth.
Rfo Espiritu Santo
According to a 1966 Water Quality Survey , DO and BOD are within stan-
dards, but the coliform count is not. According to Cintr6n's study, DO generally meets
standards at the surface, yet at depths of 1 meter or more, the water quality standard,
is contravened. The salt water wedge was observed to extend 6,000 meters inland.
Rfo Mameyes
Rfo Mameyes has an acceptable oxygen concentration at the surface except
near the mouth, where it falls below standards. However, at a point 800 meters
inland, the oxygen concentration falls below standards at depths of one meter or
more. In Rfo Mameyes the salt water wedge has been observed as far as 1300 me-
ters upstream, and subsurface oxygen depletion has been measured 800 meters
upstream. Near the mouth, the oxygen content starts to increase, but is still below
standards at a depth of 4.5 meters. Complete depletion occurs at one point along
the river at a depth of 4.0 meters (see Figure 111-11).
Coastal Waters
Bah fa de San Juan
Bacterial contamination in the bay is among the highest on the island. Stan-
dards are violated at all stations. Special efforts may be necessary and attention
should be given to correct this problem as soon as possible. Worst BOD violations
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occur near the mouth of Cano de Martfn Pena and Rm Puerto Ntievo; the rest of thp
bay has relatively low BOD's.
DO violations occur at 9 out of 28 stationsi in the upper bay, of which 3 of the
violations are from bottom samples and the rest fr^m surface samples. Violations also
occur near the mouth of Carlo de Martfn Pena and; R fo Puerto Nuevo.
Bah fa de San Juan has subjected, year after year, to the abuses of its users.
Thus, oil spills, garbage dumping, raw sewage discharges, etc.. have contributed
greatly to its pollution load.
Laguna del Condado
According to a 1971 EPA study, the conform standard was violated at all
stations and the DO standard at the eastern end of the lagoon However, more
recent EQB studies reveal that only at the bottom of the lagoon is the DO standard
violated, and only the eastern half of the lagobn contravenes bacterial standards.
Laguna del Condado has apparently been improved greatly as the result of enforce
ment of the applicable regulations.
Laguna San Jos6 and Laguna Los Coroeos
Laguna San Jos6 and Lag una Los Coro*os were studied in 1970 and 1971.
The first study found exceedingly high BOD figures at the inlet to Martfn Pefia, the
west end of Los Corozos and near the mouth of Quebrada San Ant6n where high
coliform numbers but no DO violation were found. In 1971, EPA found extreme
variations in DO as a result of active algal growth During the night or during cloudy
days, DO values would fall to zero. Bottom samples showed that septic conditions
prevailed.
Laguna La Torrecilla
Laguna La Torrecilla does not violate DO or BOD standards. The coliform
standard is violated near Canal Su6rez and the inlet to Laguna de Pifiones.
Recent work on dissolved oxygen profiles at Quebrada Blasina and Laguna
La Torrecilla shows the urgent need of prohibiting waste discharges into Quebrada
Blasina, especially of treated or raw sewage. Extremely high DO figures at the
surface and a distinct gradient down to complete depletion were observed. At
depths of as little as one foot, the DO standard is being violated (See Figures III 14
and 111-15).
Laguna de Pifiones
Laguna de Pifiones complies with standards, its quality is the best in the
region (See Figure 111-16).
111-25
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Northeastern Coast (Between Punta del Morro and Punta Miquillo)
DO's are high throughout the area, yet slight BOD violations occur near La
Perla and Hyatt-La Concha Hotel. Coliform criteria are violated at almost every
sampling point. Since this area is used for primary contact recreation, careful
thought should be given to the alternatives considered for waste treatment in this
region.
San Juan Region Alternatives
Acceptable waste treatment alternatives within the San Juan region are
limited. Wastes from the large population and many industries have overloaded
practically all of the rivers, bays and coastal areas within the region. Because of
low flows and the presence of salt water wedges and sand bar formation, none of
the rivers in the region should receive very much waste discharge. The present
system of individual industrial, urbanization and municipal discharges is unaccept
able. Wastes must be collected into a minimum of regional facilites, provided
adequate treatment, and disposed of through long ocean outfalls.
The possibility of a single regional plant serving the entire region was
considered but rejected. The most logical location for a single regional facility
would be the present site of the Puerto Nuevo plant. However, the existing site
could not accomodate the very large treatment plant that would be needed to
handle waste flows to the year 2020. Constructing a single regional facility either
in Bayam6n to the west or Carolina to the east of San Juan would also not be
acceptable. Conveyance of such a large volume of waste over long distances is
both expensive and creates many maintenance problems. Additionally, the exten-
sive waste collection system presently existing in the area would need to be modi-
fied.
The only adequate solution to waste disposal problems in the San Juan
region is to provide multiple regional systems. Consideration was given to providing
3 regional systems or 4 regional systems. One system would serve primarily the
Bayam6n-Guaynabo-Catano area and another the existing San Juan system. A
third system could be constructed to serve the municipios from Carolina to Rfo
Grande; or, 2 other systems could be provided, one principally serving Carolina,
Trujillo Alto and Can6vanas, and the other serving Lofza and Rfo Grande.
Tables 111-7-9 give projected waste volumes in the San Juan Region.
San Juan Region Abatement Strategy
The recommended sewage system for the San Juan region consists of 4 separate
systems as shown in Figure 111-17.
The Bayam6n or western system will serve the municipio of Bayam6n and
portions of Catano, Guaynabo and Toa Baja. Wastes will be collected by a system
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of intercepting sewers reaching each of the main urban concentrations. Wastes will
be treated at a regional secondary plant located at Palo Seco discharged through an
ocean outfall.
Assuming that 100 percent of the urban areas in the San Juan Region are
sewered by 1990, waste volumes to the Bayam6n regional facility will reach about
67 mgd in 1990. This volume anticipates that the following percentages of urban
areas will be served by the Bayam6n regional system: Bayam6n, 100 percent;
Catano, 67 percent; Guaynabo, 62 percent; Toa Baja, 80 percent (Levittown, Sabana
Seca and Candelaria).
The Levittown, Sabana Seca and Candelaria communities of Toa Baja are in
the natural drainage area of the Bayam6n plant and are therefore included in the
Bayam6n regional system. Present and future development in the northern area of
Guaynabo municipio will be included in the Puerto Nuevo system with the remainder
of Guaynabo, including the town of Guaynabo, tributary to the Bayamdn regional
system. The town of Cataflo will be part of the Puerto Nuevo system, while the
north and west portions of Cataffo will connect to the Bayam6n system.
An oceanographic study of the area just west of Bah fa de San Juan indica-
ted currents predominantely parallel to shore. Frequent shoreward currents also
occurred. The ocean outfall for the Bayam6n regional plant must be of proper
deiign and length to ensure that water quality standards are not violated.
It would be possible to discharge wastes from the Bayam6n regional plant
to outer bah fa de San Juan. This alternative is not considered attractive because
of the large volumes of waste involved and uncertainties regarding resultant water
quality in the bay. Although a final decision on the Bayam6n outfall should be
made following further analysis of Bahfa de San Juan conditions, particularly in rela-
tion to the Puerto Nuevo outfall, the present recommendation is for an outfall off
Isla de Cabras.
Total cost of the Bayam6n regional system with a 67 mgd secondary treat-
ment plant is given in Table 111-10.
The San Juan or Puerto Nuevo regional system provides for expansion of
the existing 24 mgd primary plant and addition of plant components for secondary
treatment.
The service area for the Puerto Nuevo plant will remain approximately the
same as at present. Old San Juan, Puerta de Tierra and parts of Santurce that are
presently sewered but not connected to the treatment plant will be connected to the
Puerto Nuevo plant by installation of new trunk sewers. A supplementary trunk
sewer will oe installed in Rfo Piedras to relieve future overloading of the present
system. When the Bayam6n regional plant is completed, wastes from Bayam6n will
be diverted to that system instead of discharging to the Puerto Nuevo plant. Some
development in the eastern position of San Juan Municipio may be diverted to the
Carolina system.
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If 100 percent of the urban areas are sewered by 1990, a 79 mgd treatment
plant will be needed. About 93 percent of the San Juan area will be connected to
the Puerto Nuevo plant, 33 percent of Catano's urban area, 38 percent of Guaynabo's
urban area, and 28 percent of Carolina's urban area. Cost of the Puerto Nuevo system
is given in Table lil-11.
Disposal of Puerto Nuevo wastes is a serious problem. Bah fa de San Juan is,
at present,severely polluted from several sources. A water quality study utilizing a
mathematical water quality model of the bay has indicated that no significant improve-
ment of water quality of Bahi'a de San Juan can occur until the severe pollution
stemming from Martin Pena Canal can be alleviated. This study also suggested that
no advantage would be gained by extending the present Puerto Nuevo outfall to outer
Bahi'a de San Juan or to the open ocean until conditions in the Martm Pena Canal
are improved.
The pollution of Martin Pena Caral is caused by 3 main sources; storm sewer
discharges with illegal sanitary line connections to the storm sewers; sanitary sewer
discharges; and raw sewage discharges from the slums that line the canal. The sani-
tary sewer discharges will be eliminated by construction of the new intercepting
sewers recommended in this report. The illegal storm sewer connections can be elimi-
nated or reduced by an investigation of housing and enforcement of regulations re-
garding improper waste discharges. The slums along the canal will be eliminated when
the Model Cities Program is completed.
The water pollution problem in Martin Pena Canal will be abated, although
several years will be required to accomplish the task. The existence of one water
pollution problem -one that will be continually lessened as time goes by- should not
serve to allow another pollution problem to exist. The decision of where to discharge
wastewater from Puerto Nuevo should be based on an assumption of water quality
plus waste imputs from storm runoff, vessel traffic, and other difficult-to-control
pollution sources.
However, it would be wasteful to expand large sums of money, now or in the
future, to extend the Puerto Nuevo outfall to the open ocean if water quality stan-
dards can be met by an outfall to the bay. It is recommended that additional studies
be conducted concerning the entire water pollution problem of Bahi'a de San Juan.
These studies should lead to a final determination of the required outfall location
(for both Puerto Nuevo and Bayam6n). As a minimum, the Puerto Nuevo outfall
must extend to the mouth of the outer bay. While the Puerto Nuevo plant still has
only primary treatment, no improvement to bay waters is likely with this outfall.
The Puerto Nuevo plant must be extended to secondary treatment as soon as possible
so that water quality conditions in Bahi'a de San Juan can improve.
Two regional systems, rather than one, were selected to serve the eastern por-
tion of the San Juan region. The primary reason for this decision is the recent rush
for construction of large private developments in the area between Ri'o Grande de
Loi'za and Luqpillo, and the high degree of uncertainty regarding the final number
and size of developments to be built. Although most of these developments (tourist
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resorts, second homes, condominiums, etc.) are located along the ocean front,
others are planned for inland areas.
If the developments presently planned and given preliminary approval by
the PR Planning Board are developed to their full planned extent, a fourth regional
plant in the Rfo Grande area becomes necessary. The collection and pumping of
large volumes of wastes across Rfo Grande de Lofza to the proposed Carolina re-
gional plant would be inadvisable. If growth in the area from Lofza to Luquillo
were restricted to expansion of the existing towns and communities, then it would
be feasible to pump water from these areas to the Carolina regional plant.
The development of 2 separate systems for the area allows greater flexi-
bility to accomodate future growth in the areas. No major impediment to 2
systems exists.
The Carolina regional system will serve all of Carolina except the Isla Verde
area which is connected to Puerto Nuevo, a very small section of San Juan, and the
towns of Trujilio Alto and Can6vanas. If 100 percent of these urban areas are sew-
ered by 1990, a 40 mgd secondary treatment plant will be required. Estimated cost
of the system is given in Table* 111-12.
The Carolina plant will be located near Rfo Grande de Lofza and waste
disposal wi)J be by ocean east of Punta Vacia Talega. The oceanographic study
offshore of Rfo Grande de Lofza showed currents generally parallel to shore with
shifts to the east during falling tides and to the west during rising tides. The easterly
flow was predominant. Shoreward currents sometimes occurred but offshore cur-
rents were not observed. Current velocities were relatively high, averaging 0.45
knots.
The Rfo Grande regional plant will serve the town of Ri'o Grande, existing
and developing urban communities in Rfo Grande, Lofza and Can6vanas, and the
new private developments planned for the area. No firm estimates of the location
and sizes of the new developments are presently available. Therefore, the cost
estimates used for this report and shown in Table 111-13 reflect only planning for
existing communities. Subsequent studies will have to be made to determine the
actual needs of the area.
The treatment plant will be located east of RTo Espfritu Santo and waste
disposal will be by ocean outfall. Since waste disposal will be to relatively shallow
water (about 40 f >et) secondary treatment should be provided immediately.
Development of the 4 regional plants in the San Juan region will eliminate
about 20 existing small treatment plants. Water quality of all the rivers in the area
should be greatly improved. Without these 4 systems, small local treatment plants
will continue to be built and river conditions will deteriorate even more than at
present.
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Independent Point Source Discharges
The large number of industries located in the San Juan region add considerably
to the pollution load of rivers, bays, lagoons and coastal areas. Most of these industries
can, with proper pretreatment, be connected to the appropriate municipal system.
There are several types of industries, however, whose wastes may cause opera-
tional difficulties to the municipal plants. These are primarily the rum distilling and
beer brewing industries, electroplating and metal working industries, pharmaceutical,
and miscellaneous chemical plants. A determination of treatment and final disposal
or pretreatment and connection to the municipal system must be made based on
economics, municipal plant requirements, quality of final effluent, and water quality
standards.
Industries that should definitely not be connected to the municipal system
are sand, gravel and cement industries, petrochemicals, and the Water Resources
Authority Power Plant complex. Each of these industries will have to meet effluent
limitations based on guidelines established by EQB and EPA and dependent upon the
point of discharge.
San Juan Region Implementation Schedule
Priorities
Highest priority in the San Juan region is expansion of the Puerto Nuevo
primary treatment plant. This facility is presently severely overloaded and wastes are
frequently bypassed to be discharged directly to Bah fa de San Juan. Concurrently
with the treatment plant expansion, trunk lines should be constructed to collect
wastes from areas already sewered in Old San Juan, Puerta de Tierra and Santurce.
These lines should somewhat reduce the pollution levels in portions of Bah fa de
San Juan and the Martfn Pena Canal. Every effort.should be made to reduce the
pollution problem in Marti'n Pena Canal by whatever means possible.
Second in importance is establishment of the Bayam6n regional plant, to
relieve the waste loads on Rfo de Bayam6n. The main trunk line to Guaynabo
should be constructed at the same time the treatment plant and ocean outfall are
being built. The treatment plant should intially include only the primary phase.
Of nearly equal importance to the Bayam6n regional system is the Caro-
lina regional system. The major trunk line should be constructed all the way to
Trujillo Alto simultaneously with the primary stage of the regional plant and the
ocean outfall. Development of this first phase would result in improvements to
Quebrada Blasina and Laguna de Torrecilla.
Water quality problems in the Lofza-R fo Grande area are presently not as
great as for the rest of the San Juan region. However, if the proposed developments
occur, river and coastal water quality will quickly deteriorate unless the proposed
system is developed along with necessary additional trunk lines and plant capacity
to serve the developments.
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TABLE 111-13: COST ESTIMATES; RIO GRANDE
RECOMMENDED SEWERAGE SYSTEM
Project description: Cost ( $ 000's)
Malpica trunk sewer:
3,600 lineal meters, concrete pipe 396
La Dolores trunk sewer:
3,000 lineal meters, concrete pipe 345
1 pumping station 75
S.T. 120
Hato Canda trunk sewer:
2,500 liaeal meters, concrete pipe 308
Rio Grande treatment plant:
2.2 MGD activated sludge treatment plant 1,910
<2.2 MGD primary treatment plant - 840}
3,000 lineal meters, concrete pipe - treatment plant 525
site to ocean outfall
1,600 lineal meters, concrete pipe - ocean outfall 1,920
S.T. 4,385
Rao Grande facility, Sub-Total 5T479
30% contingency cost 1,644
Total $ 7 ,123
Annual Operation and Maintenance cost:
2.2 MGD activated sludge treatment plant $ 63
(2.2 MGD primary treatment plant - 40)
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As soon as all regional systems are developed in their first phase, the Puerto
Nuevo plant should be extended to secondary treatment. Development of the re-
maining trunk lines for the regional systems should be completed before the Baya-
m6n and Carolina regional plants are completed to secondary treatment.
Interim Measures
The most important interim measure to be undertaken is improvement of
water quality conditions in Martin Pena Canal. Preliminary studies indicate that
sea water pumped into Laguna Los Corozos across the small neck of land at its
northern end will increase with high qulity water should be studies in more detail
and, if feasible, pumping begun as soon as possible. Studies should be made and
care taken to insure that the water quality in Laguna La Torrecilla is not lowered.
Since development of the complete regional systems will take several years
to complete, additional temporary package treatment plants will undoubtedly be
built to service new urbanizations. The number of these facilities should be kept
to a minimum. Where water quality would be lowered as a result of the discharge,
development of the urbanization or other projects should be delayed until the re-
gional system is available to serve the area.
The newly constructed plants at Lofza and Ri'o Grande should be used until
the Rfo Grande regional system is extended to them. The small waste volumes from
Lofza Aldea can continue to be disposed of to Rfo Grande Lofza. However, river and
near shore water quality should be monitored to detect any water quality problems
that might develop. Rfo Grande wastes should be discharged through the regional
plant's ocean outfall when it becomes operational.
Existing treatment plants within the region should be carefully operated and
maintained until they are connected to the regional system.
Caguas Region:
Physical System:
Topography: Mountainous, surrounding a system of interior lowlands.
Geology: The mountains are of volcanic origin. A few thin layers of Creta-
ceous limestones are present. Interior lowlands are filled to great depth with alluvia
derived from this matter by erosion.
Hydrology: Principal rivers are Rfo Grande de Lofza, and its tributaries, Rfo
Caguitas, Rfo Bairoa and Rfo Gurabo. Rfo Bayam6n's tributaries drain the western
portion of Aguas Buenas Municipio. Smaller streams are numerous and surface water
fairly plentiful. The principal aquifer in the area is the unconsolidated alluvia in interior
lowlands, presently being heavily drawn upon. The man-made Lago de Lofza (otherwise
Lago Carrafzd is the largest in Puerto Rico and provides wastes for the San Juan metro-
politan area as well as parts of the Caguas region.
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Climate: Rainfall in the region is only moderate due to the "rain shadow"
effect of the windward mountain system, 60 inches per year average in the lowlands,
80 inches in mountainous areas. Temperatures and evapotranspiration are not
extraordinary.
Ocenography: (The Caguas region is unique in that it is landlocked and
possesses no seacoast.)
Socioeconomic Aspects
The Caguas Region is unique in that it possesses no seacoast. This inland
region is made up of the municipios of Aguas Buenas, Caguas, Gurabo, Juncos, San
Lorenzo and Las Piedras. It contains a total population of 200,231, of which 95,883,
or 48 percent, is classified as urban. Regional populatiQn during the last decade has
exhibited a 21 percent increment. Total land area of the region is 228 square miles,
representing 7 percent of total land area in Puerto Rico.
The municipio of Caguas dominates the region not only in total land area,
but also in population. Caguas is the fifth city in Puerto Rico, with a total population
of 95,661 persons. This represents 48 percent of total regional population, of which
67 percent can be classified as urban. Total urban population of Caguas has more than
doubled during the last decade.
The municipio of San Lorenzo, on the other hand, which has the second largest
land area, only accounts for 13 percent of total regional population. It also exhibited
a slight decline in total population which may be due do the exodus of population
towards the larger urban centers, as well as to the continental United States in
search of better employment opportunities.
The municipio of Aguas Buenas is adjacent to Caguas on the west. This muni-
cipio has basically mountanious terrain, but also contains the beginnings of a series of
continous valleys wh'ch extend through the region on to Humacai on the east coast.
This is a basically rural community dedicated primarily to pastures and minor crops.
It exhibited a 10 percent increment in total population, especially in the urban area,
since the rural zone suffered a 28 percent decrease in population, the greatest of all
the municipios in the region.
The remaining municipios of Gurabo, Juncos and Las Piedras together contain
29 percent of total regional population, and only 21 percent of total regional population
classified as urban. These three municipios lie along State Road No. 30, between Caguas
and Humacao. Together they aaragad a 10 percent loss in rural population during the
decade, whereas the total population increment for that period was approximately 6
percent.
The entire region was principally cultivated in sugar cane, but with the closing
of the sugar "centrales", has now turned, in great measure, to dairy farming. This
111 -62
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has converted agriculture from a labor-intensive activity to one which requires very
tittle labor. An example of this is the municipio of Las Piedras, where the main agri-
cultural activity is milk production which accounts for two-thirds of total agricultural
income, but which only employs 49 persons. In the upland region, minor crops are
also cultivated.
The agricultural sector can be expected to continue to decline, especially with
regard to total employment generated. However, light industry and some heavy manu-
facturing has been established in the towns and surrounding areas. These can be expec-
ted to continue attracting migrants from other areas, especially the rural zones. The
activities undertaken are varied, and include such things as: textiles, chemicals, plastics,
clothing and metalwork. Manufacture of electrical appfiances, including scientific ins-
truments, rubber and food processing are of growing importance.
The region's favorable location and the good road system which exists makes it
easily accessible from other main urban centers. State Road No. 1, the main highway
from San Juan to Ponce, passes through Caguas. Caguas is only 18 miles from the
SJMA, and some experts already speculate that it may become part of the same in the
future. Once the Autopista Las Americas, a high-speed, limited-access road is completed,
the region will be further opened to development. In addition, State Road No. 30, four-
lane highway, crosses from Caguas to Humacao through the municipios of Gurabo, Juncos
and Las Piedras. In addition to these throughways, numerous secondary roads also serve
the region.
The Caguas region is shown in Figure 111-18. Tables ll-14and 111-15 provide infor-
mation on existing industries and industrial treatment facilities, respectively.
Caguas Region Present Water Quality
The Caguas Management Region is the only inland region. The most important
river within the region is Rfo Grande de Lofza which ultimately flows into the San Juan
Region. That portion of the river upstream of the'Carrafzo Dam belongs to the Caguas
Region.
Water quaJity of this river meets SOD and DO standards but violates coliform
standards by a factor gpeater than 40X. Recent data from the USGS agrees with this
finding.
Lago Carrafzo
Available water quality studies for Lago Carrafzo indicate that the lake has poor
water quality. Violations of water quality standards were found for dissolved oxygen,
BOD5, and fecal and total coliforms. Pollution is worse at the southern portion of the
take. The tributaries Rfo Caguitas, Rfo Bairoa, and Rfo Gurabo appear to cause most
of the problem. Although the northern portion of the reservoir is less polluted, water
quality standards are still frequently violated.
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Rfo Grande de Lofza (above the reservoir)
Rt'o Grande de Lofza above Lago Carrafzo has relatively good water quality.
High bacterial concentrations seem to be the only problem.
Caguas Region Alternatives
Alternative I - Local Facilities
A system of local treatment plants was considered. Because of low flow condi-
tions of most rivers in the region, advanced waste treatment would be required by 1990
or earlier at all of the towns except San Lorenzo. The cost estimate of local facilities
for all municipios (except Las Piedras) based on secondary treatment is $18,969,000.
Although Las Piedras is within the Caguas region, the location of the town adjacent to
the Rfo Humacao watershed and the actual distance to Humacao (4 miles) versus the
distance to Caguas (15 miles) makes it more economical and advantageous to treat Las
Piedras wastes in the Humacao region.
Alternative II - Regional System
The Caguas region is well suited to a regional system. Caguas, the largest town,
is located in the center of the region near the largest river, Rfo Grande de Lofza. All the
other municipios are within the Rio Grande de Lofza watershed so that a gravity sewer
system will be almost completely adequate. All of the towns are close together, the far-
thest from Caguas being San Lorenzo at 9 miles. The same difficulty exists with a regio-
nal system as for the local facilities - low river flow. River capacity analysis indicates that
with a regional facility, more than 95 percent removal of wastes would be required by 1980.
Estimated cost of the regional facility based on secondary treatment is $24,774,000.
Projected waste volumes are given in Tables 111-16 and 111-17.
Caguas Region Abatement Strategy
A regional system is recommended for the Caguas region as shown in Figure 111-20.
The present analysis indicates that advanced waste treatment is required under either local
or regional alternatives. If advanced treatment is to be provided, it would be far better to
operate only one of those sophisticated plants rather than 4 or 5. More complete studies
of river assimilative capacity and projected waste loads is required prior to a final decision
to proceed with a tertiary plant. The present cost estimates are based on secondary treat-
ment and are-detailed in Table 111-18.
Selection of a regional system has the added advantages of providing sewer lines for
developing areas between the major towns and better opportunity to utilize phased con-
struction ; if necessary. The only advantage to the local systems is lower initial cost.
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TABLE 111-16: PROJECTED WASTEWATER FLOWS—CAGUAS REGION*
1970 1980 2^° 2 C 0 0 2020
Population
3.4
5.8
8.1
8.3
10.2
Sewered Population
1.9
4.9
8.1
8.8
10.?.
Wasteuat er
Domestic
.075
.244
.446
.528
. 663
InfiItraticn
.876
1.505
2.043
2.130
2.309
Light Industry
.300
. 560
.812
.939
1.192
total
4.328
10.243
14.637
16.062
18.352
c
rc
Popu]a tion
1.7
2.2
2.6
2.9
3.1
(U r
-o fc
l- o
o
O
u
ro
ca
Wastewater
.103
.145
.189
.225
.256
Population
60.1
102.6
138.8
144.9
157.0
Urbar
1 Total
<
Wastewater
4.1*1
11.758
16.817
18.588
21 .530
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The regional treatmant plant will be constructed north of Caguas and discharge
will be to Ri'o Grande de Lofza upstream from the Loi'za Reservoir. Trunk lines will
convey wastes from Aguas Buenas, San Lorenzo, Gurabo, and Juncos to the regional
plant. Flow estimates to 1990 indicate that a 22 mgd plant is required.
Independent Point Source Discharges
Except for the sand, gravel and cement industries, all existing industries in the
Caguas region should be able to connect to the municipal system after required pre-
treatment.
Caguas Region Implementation Schedule
Priorities
The secondary treatment plant, river outfall and Aguas Buenas intercepting
sewer should be constructed as the first phase of the regional system. The Aguas
Buenas plant is presently overloaded. The Juncos plant is now operating at or over
its capacity. The intercepting sewer from Juncos to Caguas, including Gurabo, should,
therefore, be the next phase of the system to be constructed. Finally, the San Lorenzo
intercepting sewer should be built. Development of advanced treatment should be
begun as soon as the need can be thoroughly justified.
Interim Measures
Improved operation and maintenance of the existing treatment plants is needed,
especially during times of low river flow. Special attention should be given to operation
of the regional plant during low flow periods. Chlorination facilities should be added to
the Aguas Buenas plant.
Dorado Region:
Physical System:
Topography: Regional topography is marked by a northern coastal plain, rolling
hills further south, and finally mountain highlands at the extreme south of the region.
Geology: The mountains are a portion of the Cordillera Central, formed of volca-
nic and intrusive rock. Overlays of limestone in the foothills are of marine origin. The
coastal plain -is unconsolidated matter overlain with alluvium and playa and marsh depo-
sits. Beach rock formations are in evidence, some submerged near the coast and over-
lain by coral reefs.
Hydrology: The principal river in the region is Rro de la Plata; many tributary
streams exist. The man-made Lago La Plata is planned on Ri'o de la Plata as a reservoir
and recreationaf center (dam presently under construction). Unconsolidated deposits in
Rfo de la Plata flood plain are the principal aquifer; some artesian water exists.
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TABLE 111-18: COST ESTIMATES—CA6UAS RECOMMENDED
SEWERAGE SYSTEM
Project description: Cost ( $ 000's)
Aguas Buenas intercepting sewer:
11,4 00 lineal meters, concrete pipe 1,492
3 pumping stations 590
S.T. 2,082
San Lorenzo intercepting sewer:
11,7 00 lineal meters, concrete pipe 1,394
1 pumping station 120
S.T. 1,514
Juncos intercepting sewer:
9,0 00 lineal meters, concrete pipe 1,128
3 pumping stations 330
S.T. 1,458
Gurabo intercepting sewer:
5,30 0 lineal meters, concrete pipe 86 2
1 pumping station 12 0
S.T. 982
Caguas regional treatment plant:
2,90 0 lineal meters, concrete pipe 1,53 8
22 MGD activated sludge treatment plant 11,276
7 00 lineal meters, concrete pipe - outfall sewer 207
S.T. 13,021
Caguas regional system^ Sub-Total 19,057
3 0% contingency cost S , 717
Total $24,774
Annual Operation and Maintenance cost:
2 2 MGD activated sludge treatment plant $ 400
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Climate: Rainfall is less than the island average 65 inches per year coast and
80 inches in mountain highlands. Record low temperature was registered in Aibonito
municipio in extreme south of the region.
Oceanography: The continental shelf is 2-3 miles wide off the region's coast.
Currents are dominated by the North Equatorial Current flowing east to west 3 miles
offshore. Trade winds can generate strong surf and temporary current patterns. Tides
are normal for the north coast of Puerto Rico.
Socioeconomic Aspects
The Dorado Region includes the municipios of Dorado, Toa Baja, Toa Alta,
Maranjito, Barranquitas, Comeri'o, Cidra, Cayey and Aibonito. Together they cover a total
area of 280 square miles, approximately 8 percent of total land area in Puerto Rico. The
region has a total population of 223,954 persons which (institutes approximately 8 percent of
the island (1970 census).
The municipios of Toa Baja and Toa Alta in the northern sector of the region are
partially included in the SJMA and are being systematically engulfed by the accelerated
urbanization processes exhibited therein. An example of this is the Levittown community
which in less than 10 years hoQsed over 17,000 persons, almost equalling total population
of the Toa Baja municipio in 1960,
The municipio of Dorado, also in the north, exhibited the second largest increase
in population over the 1960-70 decade, to total 17,388 persons. This municipio has been
mainly oriented towards tourism and recreation, an attribute which will be further accen-
tuated after the construction of the De Diego Expressway through the center of the muni-
cipio. Agriculture, which had been one of the main economic activities in Dorado, is slow-
ly being overtaken by manufacturing, as well as the tourist industry, but nevertheless has
now taken the form of growing dairy cattle and cultivation of grass seeds.
The municipio of Cayey in the southern p^rt of the region is approximately 43
miles from the northern coast. It is the largest municipio in the region with a total area
of 50 square miles. However, it was also the municipio which exhibited the lowest incre-
ment in population, at less than 1 percent over the decade. Since 1960, manufacturing
has been the most important activity of the municipio both in income and employment.
In 1970, this economic sector accounted for»38 percent of total employment, and over
50 percent of total income generated in the municipio. This sector is mainly oriented
towards the production of clothing, textiles and analogous products. Another major
activity of the municipio is the creation of the Cayey Regional College which in the
future will also generate additional products and services. Agriculture, which was main-
ly dedicated to sugar cane, has almost disappeared.
The remaing municipios of Nlaranjito, Barranquitas, Comeri'o, Cidra and Aibonito
are located in the central mountain area of the island. Total population of these five muni-
cipios in 1970 is 102,783, approximately 46 percent of the total population of the region
(1970 census). Population growth 1960-70 was only 8 percent. These municipios are
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mainly dedicated to agricultural activities, such as tobacco and vegetables and fruits.
Rural population is 73 percent of the total. However, the increase registered in rural
population over the decade was only 1.3 percent. Agriculture is fighting a losing battle
in this area, and the flight of laborers toward the industrial sector, and even to the U.S.,
in search of better employment opportunities, is significant.
Communications may account for the differences in development within the
region. The central mountain region is completely crisscrossed by a network of secon-
dary roads. State Road No. 2 crosses the northern coastal plain and will soon be supple-
mented by the De Diego Expressway. State Road No. 1 crosses through Cayey, and here
too the Autopista Las Americas now under construction will improve and increase accessi-
bility and travel in the area. No other major communication facilities are either planned
or in existence.
The Dorado region is shown in Figure 111-21. Tables 111-19 and 11J-20 provide
information on existing industries and municipal treatment facilities, respectively.
Dorado Region Present Water Quality
Rivers and Interior Waters
The only major river within Dorado Region is Rio de La Plata, for which two
sanitary surveys were prepared (Fig. 111-22). As is generally the case with the rivers in
Puerto Rico, the coliform count is well above the 5000 MPN/100 ml standard for the
short portions of the river that were studied. Dissolved oxygen is generally high and
BOD is low. Recent information from the USGS does not differ greatly from these
earlier data. However, due to the lack of information about this river, which is the
longest in the island, a good evaluation of its quality cannot be made.
Coastal Water
No oceanographic or water quality study has been done on the Dorado coast-
line.
Dorado Region Alternatives
Alternative I-Local Facilities
The continuation of a system of local sewage facilities for each of the munici-
pios in the Dorado region was considered. Several problems accompany this alternative.
Rfo de la Plata is the only major river in the region. All municipal and industrial wastes
are presently discharged to this river and its tributaries. Throughout the river system
adequate waste disposal is a problem. Waste loads generally exceed river capacity under
low flow conditions. The only way water quality standards could be met with a system
of local facilities, would be to provide very high secondary or possibly tertiary treatment
at each town. Since other alternatives exist, cost estimates for a system of local facilities
were not prepared.
111 -80
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Alternative II-Regional System
One regional system serving all nine municipios of the Dorado region is not
feasible. The inland municipios are too topographically isolated and distances involved
are too great.
Alternative Ill-Multiple Regional Systems
The Dorado region can be considered as two separate subregions. The coastal
subregion comprises Dorado, Toa Baja, and Toa Alta. The interior subregion includes
the remaining municipios of Naranjito, Comeri'o, Barranquitas, Cidra, Aibonito and
Cayey. The coastal municipios can easily be combined into a regional system with
either river or ocean disposal. The inland municipios are not so easily combined. They
are well isolated from one another and little growth exists between towns. River flows
are low and not advantageous to combining wastes from towns. No cost estimates for
a regional facility serving all or part of the inland municipios were prepared. A PRASA
consultant found that a regional system serving Aibonito, Cayey, Cidra and Comeri'o
wastes at a plant north of Comeri'o was twice as expensive to construct as separate
facilities.
Alternative IV-Combination of Regional System and Local Facilities
The above considerations suggest the development of a regional system in the
coastal area and separate facilities for each of the interior municipios. The most advan-
tageous extent of the coastal regional system was examined. Three principal alternatives
were considered.
The first of these alternatives is for a regional facility serving only Dorado and
Toa Baja. Toa Alta along with the other municipios would have its own facility. Total
cost of this alternative is $25,084,000.
The second alternative is to treat wastes from Dorado, Toa Baja and Toa Aita at
a regional plant. Cost of this alternative is estimated at $22,779,000.
A third alternative is to include Vega Alta in the Dorado regional system. Vega
Alta is within the Barceloneta region since it is on the Rfo Cibuco watershed. However,
it is only five miles from Toa Alta and nine miles from Dorado, whereas it is 17 miles
from Barceloneta. Estimated cost of this alternative is $28,438,000. The cost savings
to the Barceloneta regional system is $8,284,000.
Projected waste volumes for the Dorado region are given in Tables III-21-23.
Dorado Region Abatement Strategy
Figure 111-23 shows the recommended sewage system for the Dorado region. It
consists of a regional secondary treatment plant located near Dorado with ocean dispos-
a I at Punta Boca Jgana, and another system of local facilities for the municipios of
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TABLE 111-23: PROJECTED WASTEWATER FLOWS—DORADO REGION cont'd.
1970
1980
1990
2000
2020
Population
8.7
12.5
16.3
27.8
50.9
Sewered Population
4.9
10.8
16.3
27.8
50.9
Wastewater
Donestic
• 196
.538
.897
1.668
3.309
Commercial
.060
.247
.391
.695
1.374
Infiltration
.074
.161
..244
.417
.764
Light Industry
Total
.110 .205 .299 .346 .419
.440 1.151 1.831 3.126 5.866
Population
1.7
2.2
2.6
3.7
Wastewater
.094
.Hi
.182
.278
6.7
Wastewater
.094
.141
.182
.27 6
.536
Population
1.7
2.2
2.6
3.7
6.7
.536
Population
8.3
15.2
21.5
35.2
Wastewater
.574
2.348
3.993
5.764
64.3
9.460
NOTE; Vega Alta and the urban conmunltles of Breftas and Marlcao connected to
Dorado Regional Treatment Plant.
* Population in thousands
Wastewater flows in MGD
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Naranjito, Comer fo, Barranquitas, Cidra, Aibonito and Cayey. The regional system will
serve Dorado, Toa Alta, Toa Baja, and Vega Alta from the Barceloneta region. The Levit
town development and other communities and industries in the eastern portion of Toa
Baja will be connected to the San Juan system. A cost breakdown is provided in Table
111-24. A 10 mgd plant will be needed to meet 1990 waste loads.
Development of the regional system in the coastal zone will remove the existing
waste loads on the lower reaches of Rfo de la Plata and Rfo Cibuco. Toa Baja and Toa
Alta provide very little waste treatment through the septic tank and Imhoff tank presently
in use. Vega Alta currently discharges its wastes to Rfo Cibuco after treatment in an
Imhoff tank.
The treatment plant site and ocean outfall location were selected primarily
on an economic basis. No oceanographic study has beep performed in the area. Other
oceanographic studies at Arecibo and Barceloneta have found generally favorable oceano-
graphic conditions along this coast. Pending an oceanographic study in the area, Punta
Boca Juana is recommended for the ocean outfall location.
Except for Comeri'o, each of the interior municipios of the Dorado region will have
difficulty properly treating and disposing of its wastes. Analysis of waste loads and river
capacity indicate that Comeri'o should be able to discharge secondary treated wastes into
Rfo de la Plata until 2020. Each of the other towns, however, will have to provide up
graded secondary or tertiary treatment by 1990. Waste load analyses indicate that Cayey
and Aibonito may need tertiary treatment as early as 1980.
Further studies and research may reveal acceptable waste treatment and disposal
methods other than tertiary. The EQB and PRASA must begin to investigate immediately
the precise requirements and acceptable treatment/disposal possibilities for the inland
municipios of the Dorado region and other inland areas. Methods such as land disposal
may be found acceptable and more economical than tertiary treatment. Since the exact
type of treatment and disposal to be eventually selected is unknown at this time, cost
estimates were prepared using only secondary treatment.
Dorado Region Implementation Schedule
Priorities
Highest priority in the Dorado region should be given to determining the type
of treatment and disposal that can provide the most economical, yet safe, effluent for
wastes of the interior towns. If the wastes are given only secondary treatment during
times of low flow in the rivers, then certainly water quality standards will be contra-
vened and a significant public health hazard may develop. It mav be possible to provide
a high level of secondary treatment during normal river flows, supplemented by some
additional type of treatment or disposal during low flow conditions.
Ill 89
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The Imhoff tank at Naranjito should be the first facility to be replaced. A
standard secondary treatment plant should be built immediately and should suffice
until about 1990 if it is operated and maintained in peak condition.
The next most important facility for construction is the Dorado regional treat-
ment plant, outfall and intercepting sewers for Dorado, Toa Baja, Toa Alta and Vega
Alta. Initially, only the primary stage of the treatment plant should be constructed.
The secondary stage of the regional plant should be added adequate systems are selec-
ted and constructed for the interior towns.
As soon as work on the coastal regional facility is begun, each of the remaining
interior towns should be provided with new or expanded facilities, according to the
type of facility determined to be most suitable. Priority will depend upon the actual
need at that time. With the possible exception of Barrar\quitas, all of these facilities will
be either overloaded or providing inadequate waste removal. Every effort must be made
to expand the local collection systems of all towns, but especially the interior towns. The
greater the number of homes that can be provided adequate waste treatment and disposal,
the more progress is made in combatting Bilharzia.
Interim Measures
Each of the secondary treatment facilities should receive better operation and
maintenance to improve the efficiency of plant operation. Particular attention should be
given to proper plant operation during periods of low river flow.
Barceloneta Region:
Physical System
Topography: The Barceloneta management region lies on the north coast of
Puerto Rico and extends inland to the central mountain range. It is divided topogra-
phically into three zones: the mountainous upland area to the extreme south, the foot-
hill region between the mountains and the coastal plain, and the plain itself.
Geology: The geology of the region closely corresponds to the topography. The
mountainous interior region is composed of wlcanic and intrusive rocks which are over-
lain to the north by a belt of limestone of marine origin which forms the intermediate
foothill zone. The coastal plain is a formation of unconsolidated and alluvial matter
surmounting bedrock at some depth. Much of the alluvia are associated with river sys-
tem valleys which have deeply dissected the foothill area and deposited its detritus down-
stream. There are playa and dune deposits near the coast, interspersed with beach rock
and sea cliff formations.
Hydrology: Principal rivers in the region are Rfo Cibuco and Rro Grande de
Manati and their tributary streams. The principal aquifer in the region is the water
table in the limestone deposits. Ah artesian aquifer in the limestone also exists but
extent is not precisely known; it is probably less important than the water table in
terms of long-term yield.
111-90
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Climate: Rainfall ranges from an average of 60 inches per year at the coast to
about 100 inches per year in the mountainous interior. Evapotranspiration and tempe-
ratures are not extraordinary, except for occasional unusually low readings in the southern
mou ntains.
Oceanography: Oceanography in the region is characteristic of the north central
Puerto Rican coast; the North Equatorial Current offshore is dominant at a distance from
the coastline, but a continental shelf 3-5 miles wide protects inshore waters, and local cur-
rent patterns may develop according to wind and tidal conditions. Siltation from river
runoff may adversely affect reef formations in nearshore waters.
Socioeconomic Aspects
The Barceloneta region includes the municipios.of Barceloneta, Florida, Manatf,
Vega Baja, Vega Alta, Morovis, Ciales, Corozal and Orocovis. It is located in the north-
central portion of the island, and west of the SJMA, approximately 20 miles from San
Juan at its nearest point. The region covers a total area of 365 square miles , and con-
tains a total population of 188,888. This is approximately 11 percent of total land
area in Puerto Rico and 7 percent of total island population.
The municipios of Barceloneta, Florida, Manatf, Vega Baja and Vega Alta are
all on the north coast along State Road No. 2. They include 42 percent of total land
area in the region, 58 percent of the population, and 73 percent of all the regional po-
pulation classified as urban. Their accessibility and proximity to the SJMA has in great
measure determined their notable participation in the rapid industrialization and urba-
nization process experienced by the island.
Among the prime sites for industrial location on the island are included the muni-
cipios of Barceloneta, Manatf and Vega Baja. In Manatf, manufacturing is expected to
account for more than 78 percent of total employment by 1990. In Barceloneta, Cruce
Dcivila has been converted into an industrial nucleus, mainly involving pharmaceutical
and food processing activities. This is the main economic activity in the municipio, gen-
erating approximately 32 percent of total income. The municipio of Vega Baja, aside
from its industrial participation, distinguishes itself by having the highest rate of urbani-
zation in the region, as well as the highest total urban population.
The municipio of Florida, created in 1971, was previously a barrio of Barcelo-
neta. This area is principally engaged in agricultural activities, mainly in the form of
raising dairy and beef cattle.
Towards the south, and including part of the Cordillera Central, are located the
municipios of Corozal, Orocovis, Ciales and Morovis. They account for 58 percent of
the land in the region, as well as 42 percent of the total population. However, the
process of urbanization has been less significant in this mainly agricultural sector. Agri-
culture, as in all of Puerto Rico, has exhibited a marked decline during the last decade.
The decline in population from the rural zone has averaged about 15 percent loss during
the previous ten year period, at the same time.
111-91
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Orocovis and Corozal had formerly been dedicated to tobacco and other minor
crops such -as bananas, plantains,and oranges. However, with the decline in tobacco
production, most of the area is now in pastures and dedicated to subsistence crops.
Ciales and Morovis are mainly dedicated to pastures and subsistence crops. In
this area many people still live in the rural zone, but depend upon outside sources for
income. Coffee is also cultivated in the highlands of the municipios.
The mountainous sector of the Barceloneta region has not been favored in its develop-
ment by an adequate transportation system. State Road No. 2 crosses the northern
coastline of the region. This road is due for expansion, and will be further complemen-
ted by the De Diego Expressway, which will greatly aid the coastal municipios in their
development. Towards the interior, however, only a secondary, and in some cases, a
tertiary system serves the area.
The Barceloneta region is shown in Figure 111-24. Tables 111-25 and 111-26
provide information on existing industries and municipal treatment facilities, respec-
tively.
Barceloneta Region Present W6ter Quality
Rivers and Interior Waters
Rfo Grande de Manatf, for which several water quality studies have been made,
is the largest and most important in the region.
A 1966 study source gives a poor picture of water quality. High BOD and DO
figures, and a high coliform count prevail all the way from the river's mouth to about
10 miles upstream. On the other hand, a more recent study by the Merck, Sharp &
Dohme Pharmaceutical Company shows DO and coliform violations at the same points,
but BOD violations occuring only dowstream of the Barceloneta raw sewage outfall
{Figure III-25).
Unpublished EQB data shows that the river has a low concentration of DO
coupled with low BOD figures. This unusual fact may be due to (1) an analytical error,
(2) a sampling error, or (3) oxidation of the organic matter at the same rate as that of
aeration (or oxygenation). Assuming that there were no mistakes in sampling or analy-
sis, the third explanation would hold.
On several occasions during the year, Rfo Grande de Manatf is covered with water
lilies for about 5 kilometers. Oxygen, therefore, cannot reach either the surface waters or
the subsurface waters. Since the river is continuously receiving organic loads from point
sources of pojlution, the oxygen level is depleted as the oxidation of the organic progres-
ses.
EQB personnel have studied the extent of salt water intrusion into a river and
its effects. Studies of Rfo Grande de Manatf show that a salt water wedge extends all the
way from the mouth to 5 kilometers upstream.
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Rio Grande de Manatj presents a particularly difficult problem because of
eutrophication and sand bar formation. Both conditions may cause stagnation in the
river resulting either from increased resistance to flow or total obstruction in the case
of bar formation. Oncesalt water intrudes into the river, it is trapped by the sand bar
and cannot flow out. Because of density differences, physical and hydrological con-
ditions, there is almost no vertical mixing in the river. Oxygen cannot reach the ben-
thal layers of water which exert a BOD that readily consumes the DO available, quick-
ly causing anoxious conditions.
Wide variations in DO concentration show a condition of eutrophication in the
river. Unusually high DO figures are also coupled with low DO figures. The extremes
greatly affect the capacity of the river to sustain life. The water lily lagoons on Rfo
Grande de Manatf have been brought about by excess nutrient discharged by several
treatment plants along its course.
Complete oxygen depletion occurs below the surface at points deeper than 3
meters at different locations along the river. (Figures II1-27 & 28). Even at the sur-
face, several studies show oxygen levels below the standard at different times of the
year. It will be necessary to restrict discharges that contribute to the problems in this
river. This is true for other rivers in which salt water intrudes any considerable length,
causing anoxious conditions below the surface.
Rfo Cibuco is grossly polluted in terms of coliform concentration. BOD and
DO standards are violated to a point 3 miles upstream from the mouth of the river.
Recent USGS studies agree with these findings (Figure 111-26).
Coastal Waters
An oceanographic study of the area between Punta Manatf and Palmas Altas
was performed by Black & Veatch during the months of September through Novem-
ber of 1970. As a result of this study, it is known that water quality in this area is
among the best on the island. Ocean samples analyzed show negligible BOD and low
coliform numbers as well as normal DO levels throughout the ocean waters, which were
sampled at different depths.
Inshore waters were also analyzed but the results differ somewhat from those
of the ocean study. BOD was found to be very low, but conforms existed in extremely
high numbers at the stations on Rfo Grande de Manatf, in its mouth and on the shoreline
west of it. These results can be directly attributed to the conditions prevailing in the
river and to the current pattern in the area (See Figure III-29).
The remainder of the region's coastline has not been studied.
Barce/oneta Region Alternatives
Alternative l-Local Facilities
Separate sewage facilities for each of the municipios in the Barcelonata region was
not considered an acceptable long-term solution. The coastal towns are expected to expe-
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rience rapid growth and heavy loads should not be discharged to the rivers in coastal
areas. Although river capacity analysis indicated that both Rfo Grande de Manatf
and Rfo Cibuco could handle future waste loads with good secondary treatment, this
analysis does not take into account additional problems caused by salt water wedge
and sand bar formation. The location of Barceloneta, Manatf, Vega Baja, and Vega
Alta along Highway No. 2 will facilitate construction of lines, etc., for transporta-
tion of wastes to a common treatment point.
Alternative ll-Regional System
Although the coastal towns, including Vega Alta, are susceptible to combina-
tion in a regional systetin, the interior towns Ire not. Several factors combine to pre-
vent the development of a completely regional system or multi|||e regional systems.
The interior towns are topographically isolated from one another. Even if community
wastes could be combined, the rivers which would neceKe the wastewaters could not
accomodate waste from multiple towns without high waste treatment levels. Depending
on future growth patterns, it may be possible to economically connect some of the
interior municipios to a coastal regional system. Present population densities between
the towns, however, do not make this development economically feasible. It is doubt-
ful that Orocovis could ever be economically connected to a regional system.
Alternative Ill-Combination of Regional System and Local Facilities
The most economically acceptable waste treatment scheme in the Barceloneta
region is for a regional plant serving the coastal municipios, and individual facilities for
each of the interior towns. Two variations of this alternative are possible depending on
the extent of the regional system. Vega Alta could be connected to the Barceloneta
regional system or to the Dorado regional system. If Vega Alta is connected to the
Dorado regional plant, estimated costs for the Barceloneta system is $30,183,000. If
Vega Alta is connected to the Barceloneta regional system, then the total system cost
is increased to $36,222,000.
Tables III-27-29 give projected waste volumes for the Barceloneta Region.
Barceloneta Hegion Abatement Strategy
The recommended system for the Barceloneta region is shown in Figure III-30.
It consists of a regional secondary treatment plant and ocean outfall serving the towns
of Barceloneta, Manatf, Vega Baja and the large industrial complex west of Barceloneta,
and separate facilities for Florida, Morovis, Cisles, Corozal and Orocovis. For reasons
given in the Dorado regional analysis, Vega Alta was connected to the Dorado regional
plant. Cost estimates are provided in Table III-30.
The Barceloneta regional plant and outfall will be constructed north of Barce-
loneta and between Punta Pa I mas Altas and Rfo Grande de Manatf. Oceanographic
studies found that currents in the area were predominantly parallel to shore, sometimes
flowing eastward and sometimes to the west, depending at least partially upon tidal
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TABLE IH-29! PROJECTED WASTEWATER FLOWS—BARCELONETA REGION*
1970
1980
1990
2000
20?0
Population
17.1
21.3
25.4
29.8
38.6
Sewered Population
7.9
16.2
25.4
29.8
38.6
Wastewater
Domestic
.316
..808
1.397
1.728
2.509
flj
•—>
Commercial
.110
.388
.635
.720
1.004
Town
ro
CD
Oi
4>
>
Infiltration
.118
.242
.381
.447
.579
Light Industry
.117
.147
.174
.196
.240
Total
.661
1.585
2.587
3.091
4.332
C
Population
2.1
2.7
3.2
3.8
5.0
(/)
a
•r-
¦p
•r
S
o
o
«— c
ft) o
on/>
c -
< -J
'Wastewater
.116
.m
.224
.285
.400
o
Population
2.7
3.4
4.0
4.8
5.9
c
AS
¦o <0
XI
s-
=>
c o
cn d
3 M-
ft. <
Wastewater
.148
.218
.280
.360
.472
Urban
Total
Population
12.7
22.2
32.6
37.4
50.4
Wastewater
.8it0
2.606
4.272
5.066
6.831
•Population In thousands
Wastewater flows 1n MGD
IH-107
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conditions. Shoreward currents sometimes occurred at the turnitig of the tide but
were of short duration.
The initial capacity of the regional plant will be about 16 mgd, to meet 1990
needs. Some 5 mgd of this total will come from the large industrial complex established
west of Barceloneta along Highway No. 2. Most of these industries are pharmaceutical
producers and their wastes must receive careful pretreatment prior to discharge to the
municipal system. The municipal secondary plant will need to be specially designed to
properly handle these industrial wastes, even after pretreatment. The Barceloneta indus-
trial complex is the largest of its type in the island. Experience gained during the design
and operation of this regional plant will aid in determining if other similar industries
should be connected to a municipal plant or if the wastes should be kept separate. Since
additional industries will probably locate in this same area and the present industries can
be expected to expand their operations somewhat, the ocean outfall must be designed to
accomodate this additional waste.
The interior municipios of the region will each be provided with separate facili-
ties. If Ciales wastes are discharged to Rfo Grande de Manatf, secondary treatment
should be sufficient even for the year 2020. Florida presently has land disposal through on
artificial sandfilter. Since little growth is expected to occur at Florida, this treatment
should continue to be adequate, althoagh the facility will need to be expanded somewhat.
At Orocovis, secondary treatment should be sufficient until about 1990, after
which-time more advanced treatment will be required. Morovis and Corozal face the
need for advanced treatment immediately. An activated sludge treatment plant was
recently built at Corozal, If operated properly to attain highest possible efficiency, this
plant should be sufficient for about 10 years. Beyond that time still higher treatment
levels are required. Morovis presently has only a septic tank and immediately needs
improved facilities. However, Rfo Morovis provides insufficient flow for anythihg less
than tertiary treatment.
Barceloneta Region Implementation Schedule
Priorities
First priority for construction in the Barceloneta region must go to development
of the regional treatment plant, ocean outfall, and industrial intercepting sewer. The large
waste volumes from the many industries in the area shbuld not be allowed to continue dis-
charging to Rfo Grande de Manatf and sink holes. The Barceloneta trunk line should be
constructed at the same time as the industrial line. Only the primary stage of the regional
treatment plant should be initially constructed. Pilot studies should then be performed
to determine the type of secondary treatment required and the degree of pretreatment
required of each industry. Results of this testing should be used to determine the advisabil-
ity of combating this type of industrial waste with other municipal plants.
Manatf and Vega Baja, both with new trickling filter plants, should not be connec-
ted to the regional system after all of the interior municipios have been provided with proper
treatment. Construction of the secondary stage of the regional treatment plant should
occur at about the same time as Manatf and Vega Baja are connected to the regional system.
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FIGURE 111-30- BARCELDNETA RECOMMENDED SEWERAGE SYSTEM
I
To Dorado Regional
Treatment PJant
To Dorado Regional
Treatment Plant
^ ARIAS
ps vj fOBCSl ARE Jh ^
cONS£«V6*fOS AREAS
LAKES a * "*".£0*5
f 1 INDUSTRIES
L [ PR'***•» TREATMENT PLANT
StC0«0A«r TfcfcAmtWT PLAKT
— - —. BOUMOART 0* REGION
—— - ROA0S
10 ° 22' 30"
^3 Regic-nel 1'eminent Plsnl
^ Secorfterv Trejlmem Plani
Pim ping Station
Sew«r Line
Ocean Qutfalf
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The situation at Morovis must be studied immediately to determine the most
economical waste treatment/disposal methods that will meet water quality standards.
Unconventional methods should be considered since standard secondary is insufficient
and tertiary extremely expensive and difficult to maintain. Experience gained at Moro-
vis with experimental methods will be useful in deciding what type system to provide
at other interior towns.
Orocovis and Ciales need to be provided with secondary plants as soon as funds
are available. Both provide only a minimum of treatment at present. Corozal and Florida
should have their facilities expanded after other needs within the region have been satis-
fied. Corozal treatment should also be improved or disposal changed based on experience
gained from the operations at Morovis and other experimental systems tested at interior
towns.
Interim Measures
Operation and maintenance of all existing secondary plants should be maintained
as high as possible, especially during low flow conditions. Water quality observation wells
should be installed around the Florida plant to monitor any possible changes in ground
water quality as a result of land disposal.
Arecibo Region
Physical System
Topography: The region consists of a broad, low-lying coastal plain to the north;
an expanse of hilly upland with some karst formations; and mountain highlands to the
south.
Geology: The mountain highlands are formed of volcanic and intrusive rock, and
are part of the Cordillera Central. The limestone regions are marine in origin. The coastal
plain is unconsolidated matter overlain by alluvia and playa, and marsh deposits.
Hydrology: Rfo Grande de Arecibo, the region's principal river, has created alluvial
plains and associated deposits. Rfo Grande de Arecibo has many tributaries of varying sizes
and is one of the island's most extensive. Ground water is relatively plentiful, both associa-
ted with river bed deposits and from artesian heads. Rfo Grande de Arecibo has been dam-
med to form the man-made Lago Dos Bocas in the Central part of the region. A problem
in the region may develop regarding loss of fresh water to the sea via Cafio Tiburones and
accompanying salt water encroachment on the water table.
Climate: Rainfall is below the island average at the coast but rises from 60 inches
per year in the extreme north to 90 inches in the mountainous south. Temperatures and
evapotranspiration are not extraordinary for the north coast, though low temperatures
may occur in the mountains.
111-111
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Oceanography: Like most of north coastal Puerto Rico, the region possesses
a continental shelf a few miles wide. The North Equatorial Current dominates the dy-
namic oceanography, though wind and tide patterns may combine to cause erratic con-
ditions near shore.
Socioeconomic Aspects
The Arecibo region includes the municipios of Arecibo, Adjuntas, Utuado and
Jayuya. It is located in the north-central portion of Puerto Rico, occupying a total
area of 347 square miles; approximately 10 percent of total land area in Puerto Rico.
It contains a total population of 141,241 persons, according to the 1970 Census; this
represents only 5 percent of the total population of the island.
The region is characterized by having lost population during the last decade. All
of the municipios except Arecibo lost between 5 and 12 percent of their total population,
principally from the rural zone. Rural population loss in all cases fluctuated between
7 and 33 percent of the corresponding population total registered in 1960. Another
characteristic of this region is that two of the largest three municipios on the island are
found therein.
The municipio of Arecibo is the largest in Puerto Rico, with a total land area of
127 square miles. A district center, it possesses a total population of 73,464 inhabitants
of which almost half is classified as urban. Growth has been slow but steady, and the
city of Arecibo now faces many of the problems brought about by urbanization and indus-
trialization. Among the problems identified in this regional commercial center are traffic
congestion, a rapidly deteriorating urban core, erosion of the shoreline, pollution, urban
sprawl, and lack of adequate housing for more than 25 percent of its population.
The main sources of employment are in the business, manufacturing and govern-
ment sectors, accounting for 39, 34 and 22 percent respectively. The industries in Arecibo
are mainly involved in sugar refining, rum distilling, chemical and pharmaceutical manufac-
turing and textiles. Agriculture in the municipio is mainly in the form of sugar cane, pine-
apples and other fruits, as well as farming at a subsistance level. Highly contaminating in-
dustries in the area have been influential in reducing agricultural production.
The municipios of Adjuntas, Utuado and Jayuya together have only 47 percent of
the total population in the region of which only 30 percent can be classified as urban. There
are 47,055 persons living in the rural areas of these municipios, where the economy still de-
pends highly on agricultural products for subsistence. Coffee cultivation is found in all three
municipios, but is the principal crop of the municipio of Adjuntas. Utuado and Jayuya have
mainly subsistence-level farming, as well as pastures and woodlands. This situation has caused
rural population to depart from farm occupations to urban-industrial jobs and locations both
in and outside Puerto Rico.
The communications network in this region is largely secondary. State road No. 2
crosses the municipio of Arecibo along the north coast, and State Roads No. 10 and No. 129
111-112
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link the town of Arecibo to other centers in the interior. The distance from Arecibo
to Adjuntas, the southernmost center of the region, is approximately 33 miles. Roads
No. 10 and No. 129 are due to be widened in the noar future. However, once that is
done, the population exodus from the interior may be accelerated even more. The De
Diego Expressway, currently under construction will also facilitate communications
between Arecibo and San Juan.
Figure 111-31 shows the Arecibo region. Tables 111-31 and III-32 provide infor-
mation on existing industries and municipal treatment facilities, respectively.
Arecibo Region Present Water Quality
Rivers and Interior Waters
Rio Grande de Arecibo
This river is one of the largest streams in the island. As in the case of Rfo Mau-
nabo, the quality of the water is among the highest found in the island.* At only one
station along the Rfo Grande de Arecibo were standards for all three found to be in vio-
lation. This station is located downstream from a sewage treatment plant. The BOD
standard is violated at another point, downstream from the discharge of a sugar mill.
Coliform standards are met for almost the length of the river. The coliform compliance
may be due to the strong acid discharges from paper mill manufacturing and the fact that
the river banks are relatively unpopulated because of the difficulty of access. There is no
major settlement between Utuado and Arecibo. Thus, raw sewage discharges and polluted
runoff waters do not reach the river. Little information is available on the water quality
of the several reservoirs in the region, it is felt that the quality is within standards (See
Figure III-32).
Tributaries
Rfo Pellejas: According to a 1968 stream quality survey, the river has a high
DO content at one station, a low BOD, but an extremely high coliform count which
may be attributed to scattered houses and agricultural activities in the watershed area.
Rfo Vivf: This river has a low BOD, high DO concentration, and low bacterial
(coliform) count. It is clean upstream of Utuado but picks up a great load as it flows
past Utuado, the worst polluter within the Rfo Grande de Arecibo watershed.
Rfo Caonillas: This river is reported as one of the cleanest streams in the water-
shed, with DO reaching and supassing saturation, and coliform well under the standard.
Rfo Grande de Jayuya: The river is very clean upstream from Jayuya. At Jayuya
it receives the discharges of a sewage treatment plant, increasing BOD and coliform so as
to violate standards. However, the river recovers to a very high purification level just before
reaching Lago Dos Bocas.
* However, downstream reaches are polluted with sediment and paper mill wastes.
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Ri'o Limon and Rfo TanamS: These rivers have very good water quality in all
respects.
Ri'o Santiago: This river has not been sampled.
Coastal Waters
The Arecibo Region is second only to the San Juan Region in the pollution of
its coastal waters. BOD violations occur all along the shoreline. DO violations as well
as coliform violations occur near the mouth of the Ri'o Grande de Arecibo and at the
sewage outfall.
Bah fa de Arecibo
In June 1973, an oceanographic study was conducted (from east of Punta Cara-
coles to waters at Barrio Obrero) covering an area of approximately 5 square kilometers
(updating the information in the 1967 Storer survey). According to this latest study, DO
concentrations throughout the bay approach, and in some cases, exceed saturation through-
out the area. Coliform variations show compliance with standards at points 75 meter of the
outfall and 30 meters east of the outfall for the 5,000 MPN/100 ml standard; and 100 me-
ters west, 86 meters east for the 1000 MPN/100 ml standard.
The bay has suffered some environmental degradation, as reflected by the biolo-
gical analyses, primarily because of the raw discharges and the siltation caused by the Rfo
Grande de Arecibo. However, this degradation cannot be entirely attributed to these fac-
tors since there are natural adverse conditions in the bay caused by the wind and current
patterns and the turbulence of the sea in the area. The discrepancies in f indings between
both studies can also be a consequence of the different sampling points. The lack of a
monitoring system prevents arriving at any firm conclusions as to which situation pre-
dominates in the area (See Figure III-33).
Arecibo Region Alternatives
Alternative I - Local Facilities
The municipios of the Arecibo region are large, principally rural, and isolated
from one another topographically. Although river conditions may dictate relatively high
levels of treatment in some cases, river disposal is not precluded. Estimated cost of the
local facilities is about $21 million.
Alternative II - Regional System
The factors that make separate facilities attractive prevent the combination of all
or any two of the municipios in the Arecibo region into a regional system. The town of
Arecibo is located directly on the coast. Each of the principal towns, Utuado, Adjuntas
and Jayuya are situated in mountainuous regions, each well isolated topographically from
the others. Growth between towns is not great. No cost estimate for a regional system
was prepared.
111-122
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Tables II1-33 and J11-34 show projected waste loads for the Arecibo region.
Areciho Region Abatement Strategy
The recommended system of local facilities is shown in Figure 111-34. A
cost breakdown is given in Table 111-35.
The town of Arecibo presently discharges its wastes without treatment through
four nearshore ocean outfalls. The recommended system for Arecibo includes an inter-
cepting sewer along the coast to collect this waste and carry it to a secondary treatment
plant located east of Arecibo. Several other trunk lines gather wastes from the small
communities and built-up areas around Arecibo. Initial plant size will be 10 mgd.
The treatment plant and ocean outfall will be located east of Arecibo and Ri'o
Grande de Arecibo to avoid expansion of the urban area. Oceanographic studies of this
north coast area have shown no general impediments to ocean disposal of wastes. Cur-
rents are generally to the east or west, sometimes northward, but seldom shoreward.
Bottom conditions are favorable for outfall construction in the area between Punta Mo-
rrillos and the community of Jarealito.
Utuado and Jayuya should be able to discharge secondary treated wastes into
Rfo Grande de Arecibo and Rfo Grande de Jayuya respectively for the forseeable future.
Estimates of river capacity versus waste loads showed no problems with waste disposal
to the year 2020 assuming that present and future industries provide adequate treatment.
Adjuntas, however, will experience waste disposal problems. Standard secondary
treatment of municipal and industrial wastes should be adequate until 1980 or sometime
after. By 1990 high level secondary treatment will be required according to estimates of
river capacity and waste loads. At the necessary time, improved waste removal or method
of discharge can be instituted at Adjuntas based on improved technology or treatment/
disposal methods found acceptable at other island towns with more immediate problems
than Adjuntas.
Independent Point Source Discharges
Central Cambalache and Coop. Azucarera Los Canos
The sugar industries will be required to provide their own waste treatment and
disposal. Wastewaters should be reused as much as possible through inhouse processes
and use of wastewater for irrigation. If the current wastes are discharged to R fo Grande
de Arecibo, very high levels of waste removal are required - on the order of 98 percent
of BOD5.
Puerto Rico Distilling Company
This industry may be connected to the municipal treatment plant if adequate
pretreatment is provided. The type of treatment and means of disposal must be deter-
mined during subsequent planning and engineering studies.
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Pan American Paper Mill
Because of the large volume of water which the mill uses, it should not be
connected to the municipal plant.
All other industries, except sand and gravel and cement operations presently
operating in the area should, after proper pretreatment, connect to the municipal facili
ties if their location permits. Those not close to the municipal system must provide
their own treatment and disposal according to effluent limitations adopted by EQB and
EPA.
Arecibo Region Implementation Schedule
Priorities
The raw waste discharges at Arecibo must receive immediate attention. The
primary stage of the Arecibo treatment plant should be constructed immediately along
with the ocean outfall and intercepting sewers for the town of Arecibo. More detailed
studies are needed to determine the exact timing for installation of trunk sewers to the
communities surrounding Arecibo.
Jayuya, which is presently served by an Imhoff tank, should be provided with
secondary treatment immediately. Both Utuado and Adjuntas presently have secondary
treatment, but both plants will soon be overloaded. These plants should be expanded
or replaced as soon as Arecibo and Jayuya are provided with their immediate treatment
needs.
After the above facilities have been constructed, the Arecibo plant should be com
pleted to provide full secondary treatment. The trunk sewer system should also be ex-
panded to areas where present disposal is by individual septic tanks or other means.
Interim Measures
The Utuado and Adjuntas operations and maintenance should be instituted at once.
Aguadilla Region
Physical System
Topography: The region lies in the extreme northwest corner of the island and
possesses seacost both on the North Atlantic and on the Mona Passage. Its extreme corner
extends into the mountain highlands of Puerto Rico, yet not into an area of most extreme
altitude. The principal upland feature of the region is the Cordillera Jacoa, a zone of hills
and low mountains in the north central part of the region. Along the coasts lies a narrow
coastal plain, which widens slightly at the northwest extremity of the island and again at the
foot of the river valley of Rfo Culebrinas on the west.
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Geology: The upland areas of the region are composed of volcanic and intrusive
rock in the extreme southeast, and the same matter to the north west overlain by a thick
layer of marine limestone, where some karst formations occur. The river valleys, of Ri'o
Guajataca and Ri'o Camuy on the north and R fo Culebrinas on the west, have dissected
the limestone formation deeply and created alluvial plains of unconsolidated material which
extend into the coastal plain. The coasts possess beaches and dune formation with massive
beach rock and sea cliff formations in evidence along the north coast.
Hydrology: Principal rivers in the region are Rs'o Culebrinas, Ri'o Guajataca and
Ri'o Camuy. Each has a system of smaller tributary streams, and R fo Guajataca has been
dammed to form the man-made Lago Guajataca, a reservoir and recreation area. Ground
water exploitation is limited in the uplands due to the relatively great depth to water, and
most wells are placed on aquifers associated with river valleys or in the coastal plain. Exten-
sive irrigation is carried out associated with Lago Guajataca through the Isabela irrigation
service.
Climate: Rainfall averages slightly less than 60 inches per year on the coast and
increases to more than 100 inches in the extreme southeast of the region. Temperatures
and evapotranspiration are not extraordinary, and both north and west coast wind patterns
prevail in the region.
Oceanography: The continental shelf widens on both the north and west coasts of
the region, providing protection from storm seas and ocean surf to the coasts. Nearshore
current may be erratic and influenced by local phenomena on both coasts. A local narrow-
ing of the shelf in the Bahfa de Aguadilla is the exception to this situation, and onshore
seas may be violent at times. The North Equatorial Current is further offshore at this point
on the north coast than further east.
Socioeconomic Aspects
The Aguadilla region includes the municipios of Aguadilla, Aguada, Rinc6n, Isabela,
Quebradillas, Camuy, Hatillo, Moca, San Sebastidm and Lares. This region encompasses the
northwestern tip of the island and an area diagonally inland towards the interior mountain
range. This region covers a total land area of 431 square miles, corresponding to 13 percent
of the total land area on the island. The population total for the same is a little over a quarter
of a million inhabitants, which corresponds to 9 percent of total estimated population of
Puerto Rico.
Three of the municipios are on the west coast, four on the north coast, and three
are located inland.
The first subregion, the municipios of Aguadilla, Aguada and Rinc6n on the west
coast, covers 18 percent of the total regional span, but contains approximately 34 percent
of the total population, and 51 percent of total population classified as urban. The muni-
cipio of Aguadilla contains the largest total population in the region and over 44 percent
of the urban population in the entire region. The establishment of Ramey Air Force Base
within its limits greatly helped to boost the economy of the municipio during the last 20
years by providing employment opportunities, as well as increasing the need for services
111-127
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commercial facilities dnd amenities in the dfea.* Industrial development herein has been
increasing, while agriculture in 1960 accounted for 21 percent of total employment, having
decreased to 5 percent of total employment by 1969. Agriculture is devoted to yucca, sweet
potatoes, coconuts and other minor crops.
Rinc6n is considered by Census Standards c>s a totally rural community while Aguada
has less than 20 percent of its population classified as urban. At the same time the soils in
this area are agriculturally poor or are subject to flooding. Consideration is being given by
the Commonwealth Government to the establishment of a deep water port in this area, but
no definite decision has yet been made.
The second subregion identified are for the municipios along the north coast, namely,
Isabela, Quebradillas, Camuy and Hatillo. In this grouping, Quebradillas has exhibited the
greatest increment in population during the last 10 years, even though urban expansion has
been minimal. This subregion accounts for 35 percent of the total population in the region
and for 39 percent of the land area, though only accounting for 30 percent of all the popu-
lation classified as urban within the region. All four municipios suffer from serious unem-
ployment due to a decline in the agricultural sector without a corresponding increase in
employment from the manufacturing, services or governmental sectors. In Hatillo, even
when agriculture has ceased to be a strong source of employment, dairy farming has become
the principal activity in this sector. The remaining municipios are primarily engaged in sugar
cane, coffee and subsistance farming.
The third subregion includes the inland municipios of Moca, San Sebastian and Lares.
This section involves 43 percent of the land area identified for the region but only 31 percent
of the population. The municipal seat of Moca does not yet qualify as urban. The urban
population in the remaining two communities corresponds to 18 percent of total population
defined as urban. These, however, have only exhibited an average 5 percent increment during
the decade. In the rural zone growth has either been minimal or negative. The decline
suffered by agriculture on the island, as well as a topography not adequate for mechanization,
has caused an exodus from the rural zone towards the larger urban areas in search of better
employment opportunities. The region is best known for its coffee, but many areas have
now been turned to pastures or brushlands or may be dedicated to subsistence farming.
The main highway in the region is State Road No. 2 which links Aguadilla to Arecibo
on ine east and Mayaguez on the south, as well as all the other coastal municipios along the
way. Aguadilla is 15 miles away from Mayagiiez and 33 miles from Arecibo. Other than
this main highway, a network of secondary roads link the other municipios of the region
among each other as well as with other adjacent municipios. The municipio of Aguadilla
also has a seaport whose principal function is the loading and unloading of cargo. Ramey
Air Force Base, also in this municipio, was recently closed and returned to the Common-
wealth Government. It contains a former military airstrip is now being proposed as a site
for an.international airport to serve the western portion of the island.
A map of the Aguadilla regton is provided in Figure III-35. Tables III-36
and III-37 provide information on existing industries and municipal treatment facilities,
respectively.
' Ra >iev AFB was reduced to low levels of operation in 1972 and will eventually be handed over to the Commmonwealth.
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Aguadilla Region Present Water Quality
Rivers and Interior Waters
Rivers in the Aguadilla management region include Rfo Guajataca, Ri'o Culebri
nas and Rfo Camuy, and their tributaries. Available water quality data indicate that in
general, all of the Region's rivers meet the water quality standards established for BOD
and DO, but they violate the standard for total coliform. Violations of DO and BOD
standards occur downstream from outfalls of municipal sewage treatment plants on Rfo
Culebrinas and Guajataca. However, both rivers seem to recover very quickly from the
effects of the waste load imposed upon them. Both Rfo Culebrinas and R fo Guajataca
suffer high coliform levels throughout their lengths, with maximum levels associated with
the municipal treatment plant discharges.
The data on Rfo Culebrinas is from a 1966 watef quality survey. Recent infor
mation obtained by the USGS over 1969-72 shows an average BOD of 36 mg/1 at the
river's mouth. This value is roughly 12 times the value shown on the BOD profile of
the river. This high value occurs during the sugar Jiarvest; it can be concluded that during
the season when sugar mills operate, the water quality standards will not be met (Figure
111-37).
The little information available on the tributaries of Rfo Culebrinas shows that
none violate standards. On the other hand, all stations along the tributaries of Rfo
Guajataca show a violation of the standards.
The data available for Rfo Guajataca is from a 1964 sanitary survey; yet, informa-
tion from one USGS from 1969 to 1972 indicates that, at the same point, the river is now
in a better condition that the earlier study indicates (Figure III-36).
Information on Rfo Camuy, limited to one USGS station located above Camuy
Municipal treatment plant outfall, indicates that water quality, including coliform levels,
is well within water quality standards.
Coastal Waters
Studies of Bah fa de Aguadilla have shown BOD and DO standards violations (see
Figure III-38) at several points near shore, particularly near Aguadilla cemetery, at the
mouth of Rfo Culebrinas, at the Aguada sewage treatment plant outfall and at Barrio
Nuevo. This conflicts with a 1970 PRASA study showing no BOD or DO violations, Coli-
form standards violations have been reported at numerous points along the shore.
No studies have been performed on water quality of the beach areas near Quebra-
dillas and Hatillo/Camuy. A 1968 PRASA Engineering Report stated that the raw dischar-
ges at Isabela were creating a public health hazard and the 1970 PRASA Rural Sewer Pro-
gram Report attributed "aft undesirable condition in the community" to the municipal
discharge in Rfo Camuy.
111-134
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NORTHWEST COAST: ISABELA
An oceanographic study of an area approximately 2 1/2 kilometers long by
1/2 kilometer wide with Punta Sardina at the center, shows a high oxygen content
except at the discharge of the sewage treatment plant outfall where coliform levels
are exceedingly high also. However, the quality of the waters can be said to be very good
since violations occur only near the outfall where they are to be expected and where
a mixing zone exists.
Aguadilla Region Altenatives
Alternative I - Local Facilities
A system of local sewarage facilities in the Aguadilla region was not considered
practi< al since some of the towns are located very close to one another, especially Aguada,
Moca cind Aguadilla, and Hatillo and Camuy.Total cost separate facilities (Hatillo and
Camuy having a joipt facility) was estimated at about $25,900,000.
Alternative II - Regional System
One regional system for this large region was not feasible. The total distances
betwec n communities is too great to allow economical waste transport to a common
point. Also, the towns of San Sebastfan and, particularly Lares, are too isolated to be
connec ted to other communities.
Alternative III - Combination of Regional Systems and Local Facilities
The most reasonable system for the Aguadilla region is a mixture of regional
system; and individual facilities. Several possible variations of this system might exist.
Basically, the Aguadilla region can be divided into three parts. The western part includes
Aguadilla, Aguada, Moca and Rinc6n; the northern part includes Isabela, Quebradillas,
Camuy and Hatillo; and the interior municipios of Lares and San Sebastian comprise a
third section.
The towns of San Sebastian and Lares are too geographically separated from them-
selves and other towns in the region to be connected to any regional system. Consequently,
both of these municipios will be provided with separate facilities. Cost of these two facili-
ties will be approximately $2,660,000.
Two major alternatives are present in the western sector. The first provides for a
regional facility serving all four municipios with a treatment plant and ocean outfall at
Aguadilla. Cost of this system would be $16,340,000.
The second alternative for the western sector limits the regional facility to serving
Aguadilla, Moca and Aguada. Rinc6n would be provided with a separate facility and ocean
outfall. Cost of this alternative is estimated at $15,239,000.
111-136
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The second alternative for the northern sector is for only two plants; a local
facility to serve Isabela, and a regional facility located at Hatillo to serve Hatillo, Camuy
and Quebradillas. These two systems would cost $10,240,000,
The third alternative for this area is to provide only one facility at Quebradillas
collecting wastes from Isabela, Hatillo and Camuy. Cost of this system is estimated at
$11,050,000.
Tables IH-38-40 give projected waste volumes for the Aguadilla region.
AguadiUa Region Abatement Strategy
The recommended wastewater treatment system is shown in Figure III-40. It is
composed of five different systems; a regional system serving Aguadilla, Aguada, Moca
and Rinc6n; a regional system serving Hatillo, Camuy and Quebradillas; and separate
systems at Isabela, Lares and San Sebastfan Cost of the recommended system is given
in table 111-41.
The full regional system was chosen at Aguadilla in keeping with the general
goal of reducing the total number of treatment plants and discharging points. Although
initial construction cost is higher for the full regional system, annual costs are little
different, and the intercepting sewer from Rinc6n to Aguada will provide sewer service
to additional homes.
The regional treatment plant and ocean outfall will be located in the municipio
of Aguada, just north of Rfo Culebrinas. Intercepting sewers will collect the current
raw discharges at Aguadilla and wastes from the existing plants at Borfnquen, Marbella
and La Victoria. Other trunk lines will serve Moca, Aguada and Rinc6n. Initial capa-
city of the treatment plant will be 7.5 mgd to meet 1990 flow requirements.
Oceanographic studies showed that currents in Bah fa de Aguadilla offshore from
the proposed outfall are usually parallel to shore. Currents seem to flow to the south-
west during flood tide and to the northeast during ebb tide. Current speeds are some-
times relatively high, having been recorded at 0.8 knots with an average of 0.36 knots.
A clockwise gyre in Aguadilla bay that has been reported by earlier studies was not
always present during the two oceanographic,studies conducted in relation to the Agua-
dilla outfall. No adverse currents or other factors were discovered which would prevent
disposal at the proposed site.
The northern section of the Aguadilla region will have two systems; a local faci-
lity at Isabela, and a regional system at Hatillo serving Hatillo, Camuy and Isabela. Although
as much regionalization as possible is recommended, a single system located at Quebradillas
and collecting wastes from Isabela, Quebradillas, Camuy and Hatillo was not recommended
for several reasons. Quebradillas has the highest elevation of any of the municipios ^appro-
ximately 100 meters at Quebradillas, 60 meters at Isabela, and 20 meters at Hatillo/Camuy
111-138
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and considerable pumping would be required to move wastes to a treatment plant located
near Quebradillas. Expensive and troublesome engineering problems would also be encoun
tered in crossing the deep valley cut by Rfo Guajataca. Another reason for not connecting
Isabela to a Quebradillas system is the uncertainty of growth at Isabela. Ramey Air Force
Base west of Isabela was reoently turned over to the Commonwealth government, but no
decision has yet been made as to future uses of this area.
Present population and industrial projection for Isabela indicate that a 2.7 mcjd
facility will be required to meet 1990 needs. 2020 requirements are projected at about
10 mgd. Construction of a secondary treatment plant at Isabela will eliminate the present
raw discharges near shore north of Isabela and just east of a public beach. An oceanographic
study has indicated that an ocean outfall can be constructed east of Punta Sardina. Greater
information on subsurface currents in the area should be obtained before construction of
the outfall.
Both Lares and San Sebastian will be provided with secondary treatment plants.
High level secondary treatment will be required at each of these plants to meet waste
removal requirements. Beyond 1990, tertiary or some other type of treatment/disposal
system will be required to meet water quality standards.
Independent Discharges
All existing industries except Central La Plata and Central Coloso (sugar mills) can
be connected to the municipal system. Both of these sugar mills discharge to Rfo Cule-
brinas. La Plata is located downstream from San Sebastian and Coloso is near Moca. Their
present methods of treatment are inadequate and water quality standards in Rfo Culebrinas
cannot be maintained until adequate tratment and disposal are provided. Recommendations
for treatment and disposal are the same as for other sugar mills as discussed elsewhere.
Aguadilla Region Implementation Schedule
Priorities
Highest priority in the Aguadilla region is elimination of the raw discharges at
Aguadilla. The regional plant, ocean outfall and necessary intercepting sewers should be
built immediately. Intercepting sewers to the existing treatment plants in Aguadilla and
the Aguada septic tank should be constructed at this same time. The regional plant should
initially include only the primary stage. Completion of the secondary stage will occur when
other wastes within the region are properly treated. Construction of these facilities should
eliminate tha present water quality violations in Bah fa de Aguadilla.
Of almost equal importance to the Aguadilla facilities is the construction of a secon-
dary plant and ocepn outfall to handle the current raw discharge at Isabela. If the increased
cost for building this small plant in stages is too great, then, it should be built immediately
as secondary; otherwise, the primary stage should be constructed first and the secondary
stage completed after other needs in the region are met.
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In the northern sector, three feasible alternatives exist. The first is to provide
three systems; one serving Isabels, one for Quebradillas, and one system for Hatillo and
Camuy. Estimated cost for these three systems Is $9, 377,000.
The second alternative for the northern sector is for only two plants; a local
facility to seme Isabela, and a regional facility located at Hatillo to serve Hatillo, Camuy
and Quebradillas. These two systems would cost $10,240,000.
The third alternative for this area is to provide only one facility at Quebradillas
collecting wastes fr»m Isabela, Hatillo and Camuy. Cost of this system is estimated at
$11,050,000.
Tables 111-38-40 give projected wastes volumes for the Aguadilla region.
Aguaditta ft«0an Abatement Strategy
The recommended wastewater treatment system is shown in Figure 11140.
It is composed of five different systems; a regional system serving Aguadilla, Aguada,
Moca and Rinc6n; a regional system serving Hatillo, Camuy and Quebradillas; and
separate systems at Isabela, Lares and San Sebastfan. Cost of the recommended system
is given in T able 111-41.
The full regional system was chosen at Aguadilla in keeping with the general
goal of reducing the total number of treatment plants and discharging points. Although
initiel construction cost is higher for the full regional system, annual costs are little
different, and the intercepting sewer from Rinc6n to Aguada will provide sewer service
to additional homes.
The regional treatment plant and ocean outfall will be located in the municipio
of Aguada, just north of Rfo Culebrinas. Intercepting sewers will collect the current raw
discharges at Aguadilla and wastes from the existing plants at Bonrfnquen, Marbella and
La Victoria. Other trunk lines will service Moca, Aguada and Rinc6n. Initial capacity
of the treatment plant will be 7.5 mgd to meet 1990 flow requirements.
Oceanographic studies showed that currents in Bah fa de Aguadilla offshore from
the proposed outfall are usually parallel to shore. Currants seem to flow to the southwest
during flood tide and to the northeast during ebb tide. Current speeds are sometimes
relatively high, having been recorded at 0.8 knots with an average of 0.36 knots. A clock-
wise gyre in-Aguadilla bay that has been reported by earlier studies was not always present
during the two oceanographic studies conducted in relation to the Aguadilla outfall. No
adverse currents or other factors were discovered which would prevent disposal at the
proposed site.
The northern section of the Aguadilla region will have two systems; a local facility
at Isabels, and a regional system at Hatillo serving Hatillo, Camuy and Isabela. Although
as much regierteiitttion ae possible is recommended, a single system located at Quebradillas
IK-MS
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and collecting wastes from Isabela, Quebradillas, Camuy and Hatillo was not recommended
for several reasons. Quebradillas has the highest elevation of any of the municipios (appro-
ximately 100 meters at Quebradillas, 60 meters at Isabela, and 20 meters at Hatillo/Camuy)
and considerable pumping would be required to move wastes to a treatment plant located
near Quebradillas. Expensive and troublesome engineering problems would also be encoun-
tered in crossing the deep valley cut by Rfo Guajataca. Another reason for not connecting
Isabela to a Quebradillas system is the uncertainty of growth at Isabela. Ramey Air Force
Base west of Isabela was recently turned over to the Commonwealth government, but no
decision has yet been made as to future uses of this area.
Present population and industrial projection for Isabela indicate that a 2.7 mgd
facility will be required to meet 1990 needs. 2020 requirements are projected at about
10 mgd. Construction of a secondary treatment plant at Isabela will eliminate the present
raw discharges near shore north of Isabela and just east of a public beach. An oceanogra-
phic study has indicated that an ocean outfall can be constructed east of Punta Sardina.
Greater information on subsurface currents in the area should be obtained before construc-
tion of the outfall.
Both Lares and San Sebasti'an will be provided with secondary treatment plants.
High level secondary treatment will be required at each of these plants to meet waste removal
requirements. Beyond 1990, tertiary treatment or some other type of treatment/disposal
system will be required to meet water quality standards.
Independent Discharges
All existing industries except Central La Plata and Central Coloso (sugar mills) can
be connected to the municipal system. Both of these sugar mills discharge to Rfo Culebrinas.
La Plata is located downstream from San Sebastian and Coloso is near Moca. Their present
methods of treatment are inadequate and water quality standards in Rfo Culebrinas cannot
be maintained until adequate treatment and disposal are provided. Recommendations for
treatment and disposal are the same as for other sugar mills as discussed elsewhere.
AguadiHa Region Implementation Shec/ufe
Priorities
Highest priority in the Aguadilla region is elimination of the raw discharges at Agua-
diHa. The regional plant, ocean outfall and necessary intercepting sewers should be built
immediately. Intercepting sewers to the existing treatment plants in Aguadilla and the '\guada
septic tank should be constructed at this same time. The regional plant should initially include
only the primary stage. Completion of the secondary stage will occur when other wastes
within the region are properly treated. Construction of these facilities should eliminate the
present water quality violations in Bahfa de Aguadilla.
Of almost equal importance to the Aguadilla facilities is the construction of a secon-
dary plant and ocean outfall to handle the current raw discharge at Isabela. If the increased
cost for building this small plant in stages is too great, then, it should be built immediately
as secondary; otherwise, the primary stage should be constructed first and the secondary
stage completed after other needs in the region are met.
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The Camuy-Hatillo-Quebradillas regional system should be given next considera
tion. The entire system should be constructed concurrently. The same considerations
regarding staging of the treatment plant apply as to Isabela. No oceanographic data is
available on conditions offshore from Hatillo. However, no difficulties with ocean dis-
posal in this area are expected. An oceanographic study should be completed in the
area before proceeding with construction, however.
After the Hatillo regional system is underway the Boringuen and Rincon inter-
ceptor sewers should be added to the Aguadilla regional system. Next, the San Sebastian
plant should be expanded or replaced, the Moca intercepting sewer constructed, and the
Lares plant expanded or replaced. After all other waste treatment needs have been met
the regional plants with ocean outfalls should have their secondary treatment stages
completed.
Interim Measures
Improvements should be made in plant efficiency at each of the secondary facilities
currently operating in the region.
Mayagiiez Region
Physical System
Topography: The region is divided roughly into four valley areas created by rivers,
either those presently flowing there or prehistoric. These are, proceeding from north to
south in the region: The Aftasco Valley, the Mayaguez Valley, the Guanajibo Valley, and
the Lajas Valley. Toward the interior, the terrain rises toward the crest of the central
range which, though diminished in size in this region, presents an area of mountain uplands
in the Eastern interior of the region. The coasts of the region are extensive; it occupies the
entire southwestern corner of the island from Punta Higuera on the west to beyond La
Parguera on the south. These coasts are favored wjth many beautiful beaches, as well as
numbers of associated dune and lagoon formations.
Geology: The region's mountains are volcanically derived, and alluvium in the
valley floors is volcanic in origin. Some limestone lies in the Guanajibo and Lajas Valley;
its extent and origin are not precisely known. Some lagoon formation took place in these
valleys; their remains still exist in Lajas.
Hydrology: There are a number of rivers in the region, principal among them being
the systems of Rfo Grande de Afiasco, Rfo Yaguez and Rfo Guanajibo. All these flow
westward into the Mona Passage. Although some ground and surface water are found in the
northern sections of the region, scarcity of both increases toward the south, where only the
most extensive irrigation and aqueducting techniques allow normal human life and agricul-
ture. The limestone and alluvium in the Guanajibo valley is thought to be the greatest un-
tapped source of ground water in the southwest. Little ground water is found in the Afiasco
or Yaguez valleys. There is ground water in Lajas valley, though saline. Large-scale with-
111-149
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• irawals from both ground and surface waters pose a problem of depletion and salt
intrusion throughout the southern part of the region.
Climate: The region contains a very wide range of rainfall characteristics,
ranging from an average of 100 inches a year in the interior uplands of Maricao to less
than 30 inches at Cabo Rojo in the extreme southwest of the island. Heat and low rain
fall conditions are pronounced in the southwest corner of the island.
Oceanography: The coastal shelf is relatively wide all along the coast of the Maya-
guez region. Extensive reef formations exist all along the coast, and the configuration of
the coastline involves many sizeable bays and inlets which are navigable by fairly large
craft. Current direction varies seasonally between north and south in the Mona Passage
(see 11.4 OCEANOGRAPHY above).
Socioeconomic Aspects
The Mayaguez region is among the larger on the island with a total area of 432
square miles. It includes the municipios of Anasco, Mayaguez, Cabo Rojo, Lajas, Las
Mart'as, Maricao, San German, Hormigueros and Sabana Grande with a total population
of 216,870 inhabitants, of which 50 percent are classified as urban. The Mayaguez region
encompasses most of the western and southwestern portions of the island, with the muni-
cipio of Mayaguez being the most important, not only because of its larger size, since it
occupies a total land area of 77 square miles, but alro because it contains approximately
40 percent of the population, and well over 64 percent of the population classified as urban.
In addition, the municipio of Mayaguez has traditionally been a district center
the third largest city of the island, even though it has currently been surpassed to occupy
the fifth rank in size. The city of Mayaguez has exhibited a fairly stable growth during
the last decade, as compared to many of the urban centers close to the SJMA. It serves
the nearby municipios as the focus of employment and educational opportunities and
serves as a center for the marketing of agricultural produce, commercial transactions,
and service-oriented activities. With regard to the agricultural sector, it may be said
that sugar cane is cultivated in the coastal flatlands, while the steeper lands toward the
east of the city are dedicated to coffee, subsistence; farming, pasture or woodlands, Maya-
guez has a wide variety of industrial activities, which range from canning of fruits, vege-
tables, and tuna fish, to sugar refining and derivatives, and tool accessories and other
manufacturing.
The remaining coastal municipios of the region are Anasco on the north, Cabo
Rojo on the south, and Lajas towards the southeast. These municipios have a total popu-
lation of 62,021, representing 28 percent of the total in the region. Correspondingly,
population classified as urban is 14 percent of total population in the region. Cabo Rojo
and Lajas are both included as important centers for the decentralization of tourist acti-
vity outside of the SJMA. The natural beauty of the region, including the beaches, the
phosphorescent bay, the various projects underway of a touristic and recreational nature,
a bird refuge, and its location in relation to other larger urban centers will make this region
a key center for the development and expansion of the tourist industry, and can be expec-
tf d to be a great attraction to local residents.
111-150
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The municipio of ARasco, ori the other hand, is primarily agricultural in nature.
The best soils are planted in sugar cane, while the remaining, mostiy steeper lands, are
planted in low-yielding coffee, subsistence crops, pastures or woodlands.
The municipio of Hormigueros is the smallest in the region with a total land area
of 11 square miles. This municipio has exhibited the greatest percentage increase in popu-
lation in the region in particular in the urban sector. This, however, is not due to growth
autogenerated by the municipio, but has occurred as a consequence of the urban expan-
sion of the city of Mayaquez, which has overflowed the municipal boundaries into Hormi-
gueros. This municipio, too, is primarily dedicated to the cultivation of sugar cane, with
light manufacturing having assumed a growing role.
The municipios of Las Marias and Maricao stand out in that both are classified as
being 100 percent rural. These inland municipios ha^eal^o lost population during the last
ten years, principally due to the decline suffered by the rural agricultural sector. These
municipios are primarily in pasture, brushland, low yielding coffee and subsistence farm-
ing. Some of the better soils have been dedicated to sugar cane.
Also forming part of the Guanajibo Valley are the remaining two municipios in the
region, San German and Sabana Grande. The smaller of the two, Sabana Grande, has main-
tained a fairly stable growth in population during the fast ten years, at the same time that
agriculture has suffered a decline, Sabana Grande is a poor area for agriculture, and the land
is mainly in brush and timber. Sugar cane is cultivated in the more fertile areas. However,
it may be expected that once the portion of the expressway between Ponce and Mayaguez
currently under construction through Sabana Grande is completed, the area will be opened
to further development in the form of industrialization.
The city of San German is one of the oldest centers on the island, having been
founded around the year 1510. It was declared a city in 1877. The importance of this
city to the regional economy has been notable. Its importance lies in being a center of
higher education and in the expansion of the light manufacturing sector, as well as due to
the prominence it acquired during its historical development. Agriculture is primarily sugar
cane. The steeper zones are mainly in woodlands, pastures and minor crops.
This region has become significantly isolated due to the inadequate transportation
system which existed. In recent years, the modern transportation infrastructure provided by
the construction of a four-lane expressway from Mayaguez to Ponce has stimulated roadside
development and urban expansion in the region. The remaining system is of a secondary and
sometimes tertiary nature. The latter becomes especially difficult in the more mountainous
sectors of the region.
A map of the Mayaguez region is provided in Figure 111-41. Tables IM-42 and
111 -43 provide information on existing industries and municipal treatment facilities, res-
pectively.
Mayaguez Region Present Water Quality
Rivers and Interior Waters
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The rivers in the Mayaguez Region are Ri'o Grande de Anasoo Rfo Guanajibo
and Ri'o Yaguez, which is the most polluted of the three in all respects. All of the
rivers present a high total coliform count, thus constituting a public health hazard.
However, only Ri'o Yaguez shows violations in both BOD and DO, and Ri'o Guanajibo
only for BOD. Ri'o Grande de APiasco shows the best water quality. The study from
which the information was taken was conducted while the Central Igualdad sugar mill
was not operating. When the sugar mill is in operation, it contributes the greatest
pollution load to the river and the water quality profile changes completely for the
worse.
Nearly all of the tributaries of Ri'o Guanajibo violate the coliform standards
by at least a factor of 5. On the other hand, nearly none of 1hem has a high BOD
or a low oxygen content.
Rfo Yaguez is the biggest contributor of bacterial pollution to the Ri'o Grande
de APiasco. On that same watershed, Rio Casei and Rfo CaRas, which are clean streams,
have been selected as a basis for establishing a background value for BOD (See Figures
III-42-44).
Coastal Waters
Bah fa de Mayaguez
In general, the bay has a high DO content, except at the out fall the tuna
canning complex, and a high coliform count, especially at the discharge point of the
raw sewage outfall and near the mouths of Rfo Yaguez and Rfo Guanajibo (see Fig.
111 -45).
Bahta de Boquer6n
Even though the BOD standard is not violated, the DO standard is violated in
the area just in front of the beach area at the Boquer6n Baineario resort. However,
the most critical of the parameters, coliforms, presents violations all along the shoreline.
Since Boquer6n is one of the most popular resorts in the island, the quality of its waters
should be kept at the Mgkest possible level (See Figure III-46).
Laguna de Rinc6n
The BOD standard is violated in the lagoon close to the discharge of the treatment
plant; furthermore, the waters have been completely depleted of their oxygen and the
coliform count is exceedingly high. The main reason for this violation is the treatment
plant discharge. Since the lagoon empties near the beach of Boquer6n, the quality of
the latter is being affected by the former. This situation should be corrected as soon as
possible either by upgrading the existing plant or by banning any such discharges into the
lagoon (See Figure 111-46).
111-158
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Bah fa de Parguera
Reports on water quality of this bay lead to the conclusion that standards are
not violated in the greater part of the bay. However, in front of the town and along
the shore where many illegal "squatter" houses are located, the coliform standard is
violated. Since this is one of the most precious areas in the island, it is of utmost
importance to prevent any pollution that will affect aesthetics health, or its extraordinary
fauna, flora and natural beauty (See Figure 111-47).
Mayaguez Region Alternatives
Alternative I - Local Facilities
Estimated cost of providing a separate facility for each of the municipios is
$25,487,000. This alternative was not considered acceptable because of waste disposal
problems and desire to reduce the total number of plants.
Alternative II - Regional System
A single regional system for the Mayaguez region is not practical; the large dis-
tances involved and topographic separation of some municipios combine to create an
uneconomical system. No cost estimates were prepared for this alternative.
Alternative III - Combination of Regional System and Local Facilities
The Mayaguez region may be broken down into three sections. The coastal
section contains Afiasco, Mayaguez, Hormigueros and the northern half of Cabo Rojo.
Las Marias and Maricao comprise the interior section, while San German, Sabana Grande,
Lajas and the lower half of Cabo Rojo form the southern section.
Only one feasible alternative is available for the interior municipios of Las Manas
and Maricao. These two towns are so geographically isolated as to prevent their inclu-
sion into any regional system. Therefore, each will be provided with its own sewerage
facilities. Cost of these facilities is $385,000 each for Las Marfas and Maricao.
Alternatives exist for the coastal municipios, depending on the extent of the
Mayaguez system. The minimum extent of the Mayaguez regional system that provided
adequate control of pollution includes Mayaguez, Afiafsco, Hormigueros and Cabo Rojo.
Afiasco is included because of its proximity to the proposed plant site location and because
of general recommendations against coastal river disposal. Several small treatment plants
in Mayaguez and Hormigueros need to have their effluent removed from coastal areas and
Rfo Guanajibo. Cabo Rojo has no adequate disposal site without providing high level treat-
ment and land disposal. Estimated cost of this regional system is $23,031,000.
The location of San German and Sabana Grande along Route No. 2 and R fo Guana-
jibo makesfaasible their connection to the Mayaguez regional system. The low flow of Rfo
Guanajibo makBs waste disposal a problem for both of these towns. If only San German is
connected to the Mayaguez regional plant the estimated cost is $33,904,000. The extension
of the system to Sabana Grande would result in a total cost of $33,898,000.
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The southern town of Lajas together with San German and Sabana Grande
provide the most difficult problems within the Mayaguez Region. Under low flow
conditions very little flow occurs in the upper reaches of Rfo Guanajibo. Lajas dis-
charges to a creek that is dry most of the time. Distances to adequate disposal points
are great.
The most feasible alternatives identified for these towns are (1} have Lajas
wastes transported to Boquer6n for ocean disposal and San German and Sabana Grande
each provide local treatment and disposal to Rfo Guanajibo. Cost is estimated at
$10,398,000.(2) Treat and dispose of wastes of all three towns at Boquer6n at an esti-
mated cost of $14,447,000. (3) Have a joint facility at San German to treat wastes from
San Germdn and Sabana Grande with waste disposal to Rio Guanajibo. Local treatment
and disposal are intended for Lajas. Cost is estimated at $6,139,000 (Tables III-44-46
give projected waste volumes for the Mayaguez region.)<
An advanced waste treatment plant using land disposal is ready for construction
at La Parguera.
Mayaguez Region Abatement Strategy
The recommended system for the Mayaguez region is shown in Figure 111 -48. It
consists of a regional plant and ocean outfall at Mayaguez serving Mayaguez, Anasco, Hor-
migueros and Cabo Rojo. Maricao, Las Marfas and Lajas will have local facilities, Sabana
Grande and San German will have their wastes treated in a secondary plant at San German
with disposal to Rfo Guanajibo. Estimated cost of the entire system is given in Table 111-47.
Oceanographic studies of Bah fa de Mayaguez have shown considerable variation in
currents. The most prevalent currents seem to be roughly parallel to shore. In the El Mam'
area where the proposed treatment plant will be located, measured currents most frequently
flow parallel to shore or seaward. Some shoreward currents were observed. The ocean out-
fall should be of sufficient length to insure adequaje dilution and coliform dieoff under both
primary and secondary treatment.
Development of the Mayaguez regional system will eliminate all major sources of
pollution to Bah fa de Mayaguez. Intercepting sewers will be built to collect the current
raw discharges of domestic wastes and industrial wastes. Interceptor sewers to the south
will collect wastes from the existing facilities at Guanajibo homes, Valle Hermosa, Zona
Libre, Hormigueros and Cabo Rojo, relieving Rfo Guanajibo of most of its waste load.
Although Afiasco could probably continue to discharge into Rfo Grande de Anasco with-
out contravening water quality standards, its nearness to the treatment plant site and the
expected northward growth of Mayaguez make it desireable to connect Anasco to the
legonal system. Initial capacity of the regional treatment plant will be 22 mgd.
Las Marfas and Maricao will both be provided with individual secondary treat-
ment systems. Las Marfas' waste discharge to Rfo Grande de Afiasco should be adequate
with standard secondary treatment through the forecast period. Maricao, however, will
need to provide high-tevel secondary or tertiary treatment by the year 2000.
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The southern section of the Mayaguez region presents great difficulties for
waste treatment, particularly at Lajas. Except for Rfo Guanajibo downstream from
San German, no rivers suitable for waste discharge exist. Lajas is located far from any
receiving water body. Future development of the Lajas and the entire southwest cor-
ner of Puerto Rico is rather uncertain at this time. The area has been considered for
development as a major tourist zone. There is also speculation concerning location
of a major airport and industrial development within the Lajas Valley. Numerous
small communities which may or may not develop further exist throughout the area.
The development of an extensive and costly regional system with ocean dispo-
sal in the Boquer6n area is a possibility for the region. However, given the uncertain-
ties of future development, this type of regional system cannot be fully justified at
present. Therefore, it is recommended that Lajas continue to provide local treatment,
and a treatment plant to serve San German and Sabana.Grande be constructed near
San German with discharge to Rfo Guanajibo.
Rfo Guanajibo at San German can assimilate the wastes from San Germain and
Sabana Grande if high level, secondary treatment is achieved. Beyond 1990, this high-
level secondary treatment will probably not be adequate. By that time a more perma-
nent regional system for the southwest area should be ready for development.
The existing plant at Lajas must be expanded and its operation carefully con-
trolled. An examination of the present discharge to the irrigation must be undertaken
to determine any possible harmful effects. If no water quality problem exists and no
danger to irrigated crops is found, then the discharge can continue. Otherwise some type
of direct land disposal should be considered.
Individual Discharges
Given proper pretreatment, all of the existing major industries should be able to
connect to the municipal system, except for Central Eureka at Hormigueros and Central
Igualdad at Mayaguez, and the sand, gravel and cement industries Each of these indus-
tries will be required to provide their own treatment and disposal as discussed elsewhere
in the report.
Mayaguez Region Implementation Schedule
Priorities
Elimination of the rawdischarges and treatment of the industrial wastes at Maya-
guez is the most urgent need in the Mayaguez region. The necessary intercepting sewers
should be constructed immediately along with the primary stage of the regional treatment
plant and the ocean outfall. The secondary stage of the treatment plant should be delayed
until adequate treatment and disposal is provided for other areas in this region.
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A study should be begun immediately of the problems and possibilities piesent
at Lajas. Construction of the needed facilities should be begun as soon as a determina
tion is made.
The next most pressing need is a trunk sewer from Sabana Grande to the newly
constructed secondary plant at San German (San German plant presently under cons
truction-June 1973). The San Germdn plant should be expanded as needed.
The Mayaguez regional system should be extended to Hormigueros, and the
wastes from existing facilities at Guanajibo homes, Valle Hermoso, Zona Libre, Hormi
gueros and Alturas de Mayaguez connected to the regional system. The regional system
should then be completed by constructing intercepting sewers to Anasco and Cabo Rojo
(a new treatment plant was completed at Cabo Rojo in*May 1973).
A new secondary plant at Las Marias and an expansion of the secondary plant
presently under construction at Maricao should be constructed as plant capacities are
reached.
Interim Measures
Proper operation and maintenance should be carried on at all existing plants, espe-
cially during periods of low river flow? to achieve maximum plant performance.
Guayanilla Region
Physical System
Topography; The region extends northward to the mountain crest and contains
a narrow belt of mountain highlands, but is dominated by tall and extensive limestone
outcroppings which extend from just south of the .Cordillera Central almost to the sea
cost. The outcroppings are deeply dissected by several river systems. The coastal plain,
where it exists, is narrow and formed to a great extent by coalescence of these rivers.
The western end of the Lajas Valley formation lying in the Mayaguez region extends
to north of Gudnica.
Geology: The mountain crest is formed of volcanic and intrusive rock, overlain
to the south by a massive limestone formation of marine origin. Action of rivers on the
matter of these two zones has cut deep valley systems and distributed their detritus as
alluvial material in these valleys and on the coastal plain. The alluvium consists of uncon
solidated sediment of various materials and is highly permeable.
Hydrology; Principal rivers in the region are Rfo Macand, Ri'o Guayanilla, Rto
Yauco, Rfo Lpco and Rfo Tallaboa. Flow in these rivers is generally low due to low
rainfall and some irrigation withdrawals. The river systems in the region are subject to
flash flooding in the event of sudden rains upstream. The most important aquifers in
the region are found in the sediment-filled rivercourses running north to south; most
wells in the area are associated with them. The region generally suffers from low water
availability.
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Climate: The region exhibits a climate typical of the south slopes of the Cordi-
llera Central and south coast of Puerto Rico, with low rainfall, high temperatures ,ind
high evapotranspiration. Winds are generally easterly but can vary seasonally and with
storm conditions offshore or inland. Rainfall averages 80 inches per year on the northern
mountain boundary and about 30 inches on the coast.
Oceanography: The continental shelf narrows slightly off the coast of the region but
still remains fairly extensive. Currents are typical of the south coast, variable and loca-
lized, influenced relatively little by winds. Tides average 1.1 foot in range with seasonal
variation between diurnal and semidiurnal patterns. The natural harbors of Gucinica and
Guayanilla provide good locations for shipping, though only Guayanilla is extensively
used at present. The continental shelf is cut to an extent by the Guayanilla Canyon off
Guayanilla (see Figure 11-11, 11-17).
Socioeconomic Aspects
The Guayanilla region encompasses a total land area of 191 square miles. It
includes the municipios of GuSnica, Guayanilla, Yauco and Penuelas. This represents
approximately 6 percent of the total land area in Puerto Rico. Total population of the
region is 84,109 inhabitants which represents 3 percent of the total island population.
Only 36 percent of the regional population is classified as urban.
Yauco with 36 percent of the land area, contains 42 percent of the population for
a total of 35,103 persons of which 37 percent is classified as urban. Yauco's population
increase during the decade was less than 1 percent. This may be explained by the decrease
in population suffered by the rural zone, as a consequence of the decline experienced in
agriculture. The northern part of the municipio of Yauco is humid and was once favorable
for coffee cultivation. Various factors including the rugged topography have affected pro-
duction in this sector. The restof the land is mostly in pastures, brushland or woodland,
with a few scattered areas' of low yielding sugar cane. In addition, subsistence crops are
also grown.
Gucinica, Guayanilla and Pefiuelas are the coastal municipios of the region, located
directly west of Ponce on the southwest end of the island. They contain 58 percent of
remaining population in the region, but are primarily rural in character. Again, as in the
case of Yauco and many other municipios on the island, agriculture has declined. The main
activity identified is sugar cane production. This region, however, is problematic for devel-
oping agriculture due to such things as dry arid soils, drought, salt intrusion in the aquifers,
and other factors including air pollution created by the petrochemical complex in the area.
These factors not only affect crop yield, but as a consequence also affect employment
possibilities in this sector.
Industry was introduced to the area in order to alleviate unemployment and boost
the economy. The main industry in the region is the complex of petroleum, petrochemical
and chemical works situated in and around the town of Guayanilla Bahi'a de Guayanilla
and the acfjacent municipio of Pefiuelas. This complex has only partially solved the econo-
mic problems of the region since most employees of the plants, especially those in the
higher income brackets, reside outside the region and therefore take their earnings, else-
where, especially to Ponce.
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In addition, there is textile manufacturing in the area. In Gu^nica there is
a fertilizer plant as well as Central Gu£nica„ A salt refinery operates in Penuelas.
The main communication link of the region with the other principal urban
centers of Ponce and Mayaguez is State Road No. 2, a six lane highway currently
under expansion from Yauco to Sabana Grande. Road No. 116 links Gucinica with
Yauco. The remaining system is made up of secondary and tertiary roads which
connect the rural areas with the main thoroughfares.
A map of the Guayanilla region is provided in Figure III-49. Tables III 48 and
111-49 furnish information on existing industries and municipal treatment facilities, res
pectively.
Guayanilla Region Present Water Quality
Rivers and Interior Waters
Rivers in this region have generally not been studied with the exception of Rt'o
Guayanilla, and even here only sparse information is available. USGS has one station with
data on bacteriological analyses for Rfo Tallaboa and Rfo Loco.
According to the USGS data, water quality in both rivers violates the total con-
form standard; however, in terms of BOD and DO, none of them exceeds the standard.
Rfo Guayanilla has a high DO and coliform concentration. Its temperature increases
9°F due to the discharges of the PPG and Air Products and Chemical Plants, according
to unpublished data obtained by EQB.
Coastal Waters
Bah fa de Guayanilla and Bahfa de Tallaboa receive the load from the petrochemi-
cal complex in the area.
Bah fa de Gu£nica
According to a 1968 study, the bay has high BOD levels incurring violations and
low DO levels from south of the mouth of Rfo Loco to Cueva Jul fa. The coliform count
also exceeds standards here, as well as at the outfall of the sewage treatment plant and
pumping station. However, at the mouth of the bay, coliform values are low, probably
due to strong chemical discharges from the ammonium sulphate plant and Ochoa Fertilizers.
The ammonium sulphate plant also discharges heat and wastewater into the bay, causing
an increase in water temperature. Composition of 1965 and 1968 report findings shows
that the waters of the bay have been degraded. The 1965 data shows acceptable BOD
and DO levels, with the conforms picture much the same as in 1968 (see Figure III-50).
Bahfa de Tallaboa
Comparing the results of a 1968 survey with a 1971 survey of the bay reveals that
north of Cayo Rfo from the town of Tallaboa to the tip of Punta Guayanilla, DO levels
am well below standards and have decreased with time; that is, the quality of the bay
wallrs has been degraded. Coliform counts, temperature and BOD levels in the bay are
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within standards. BOD values are highest southwest of the Union Carbide discharge
canal to Punta Guayanilla. Temperature is relatively high in the bay yet violations
have not occurred (Fig. 111-51).
Bah fa de Guayanilla
BOD figures are very low in the bay waters and DO figures are high. Accord-
ing to a 1968 survey, coliforms are extremely high, especially at the eastern portions
of the bay near Playa de Guayanilla, and at the mouth of Rfo Guayanilla. More recent
information on coliform counts is not available.
As in the case of Bahfa de Tallaboa, Bahfa de Guayanilla has unusually high tem-
perature profiles, and violations occur from north to Punta Gotay to the CORCO loading
docks near the discharge of the South Coast Steam Plant.
The EPA 1971 water quality study of the bay discusses other indicators of water
quality such as metals, oil and grease, sediment characterization and aesthetics. These
findings will be summarized and published in the near future.
Metal concentrations higher than those normally found in sea water were detected
for zinc, iron, mercury, molybdenum and hexavalent chromium; the first four elements in
Bahfa de Guayanilla, and the last 3 in Bahfa de Tallaboa. Apparently zinc comes from an
external source, while mercury, iron and molybdenum comes from a local source. CORCO
refinery cooling water in withdrawn from the area is Bahfa de Guayanilla where mercury
concentrations are highest and discharged into Bahfa de Tallaboa. Thus, mercury is being
introduced into Bahfa de Tallaboa through cooling water of CORCO and recycled back
into Bahfa de Guayanilla by the currents prevailing in the area. High concentrations of
mercury were confirmed by EQB, although this data has not yet been published. High
mercury concentrations were also found in RCo Guayanilla below the point discharge of
PPG and Air Products and Chemicals.
As far as aesthetics are concerned, floating solids, settleable solids and oils are
clearly visible in the two bays in gross violation of water quality standards.
Deposits of organic material of petrochemical origin exist in Bahfa de Tallaboa
along the coast of Punta Guayanilla and near the CORCO and Union Carbide discharge
canals. Petrochemical residues also occur in Bahfa de Guayanilla. Sediment deposits
have destroyed the natural substrate and corals in the adjacent waters of these bays.
Oil and grease of petrochemical origin have also been detected throughout the two bays,
following current patterns very closely.
Guayanilla Region Alternatives
Alternative I - Local Facilities
A continuation of separate sewage facilities was not considered a practical alter-
native in the Guayanilla region due to very low flows (and frequently dry beds) in the
streams in the region. Separate facilities could only be acceptable if the wastewater were
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reused in some fashion. As explained in Chapter II, no water reuse recommendations
to this effect are being made at present.
Alternative II - Regional System
A regional system collecting wastes from Penuelas, Guayanilla, Yauco and
Gu3nica, providing secondary treatment in a central facility and discharging wastes
through an ocean outfall was determined to be feasible. The most acceptable loca-
tion for a treatment plant and ocean outfall was found to be southeast of Gueinica at
Punta Ventana. The major objection to a completely regional system is the difficulty
and expense of transporting the wastes from Guinica. Gudnica wastewaters would
either have to be transported along the rugged coastline south of the Gueinica State
Forest, or inland to Yauco or the community of Palomas and then south again to the
treatment plant. Cost of the regional system is estimated at $18,182,000.
Alternative III - Combination of Regional System and Local Facilities
Since the transport of wastes from Gueinica present problems, and waste from
the other municipios can be easily carried to the treatment site principally by gravity
flow, consideration was given to a separate treatment plant at Guinica. No adequate
ocean disposal site exists near Gu£nica nor will continued disposal to the well protected
Bah fa de Guinica be acceptable. As waste flows from Gu3nica increase, the total waste
load entering Bah fa de Gu£nica will exceed acceptable levels unless advanced treatment
is provided. Estimated cost for a regional plant near Guayanilla and a separate facility
at Gu£nica providing secondary treatment with discharge to Bah fa de Guinica is
$16,405,000.
Table 111-50 gives projected waste volumes for the Guayanilla Region.
Guayanilla Region Abatement Strategy
Alternative II, the regional system, is recommended for the Guayanilla region.
The regional system was chosen over providing a separate facility at Gudnica for several
reasons. Unless some type of treatment, beyond standard secondary, is provided to the
Gu£nica wastes , localized violations of water quality standards will continue in Bahfa
de Gudnica. If tertiary treatment were provided at GuSnica, cost savings of a separate
facility would be minimal or nonexistent. The expense and difficulties of operating a
tertiary plant are such that they should not be undertaken without clear justification of
need-which does not presently exist. If advanced treatment is to be provided, then waste-
water reuse must be strongly considered. The situation regarding water reuse in the area
has not been sufficiently studied to make a firm recommendation at this time.
The increased social benefits or additional population to be sewered by construc-
ting the Gudnica intercepting sewer will help offset the expense of the sewerline. If Gu£-
nica wastes are transported to the regional plant, following a northern route to Palomas
and then south to the treatment plant, the sewer line can serve small communities and
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roadside population along route 116. Slopes along this route are gentle and should
present no engineering problems. The southern route along road No. 333 is much less
desirable because of the steep topography. Also, since most of the area is included in
the Gu£nica State Forest, little development is expected along this road. Any develop-
ments for recreation in this area would have to provide their own adequate waste treat-
ment and disposal. Figure 111-52 shows the proposed regional system, and cost estimates
are given in Table 111-51.
The ocean outfall and treatment plant sites were chosen by means of an analysis
of best ocean disposal. The depression that exists off Punta Ventana allows deep water
to be reached much closer to shore than at any other point along the coast. The Depart-
ment of Public Works oceanographic study indicated that, although surface currents were
predominantly shoreward, subsurface currents were generally away from shore. If waste
is disposed of at the outer reaches of the depression, no problems should develop with
ocean waste disposal. However, a more thorough ooeanographic study should be con-
ducted prior to construction of the recommended outfall.
Construction of the recommended system will result in an significant improvement
in the quality of water bodies within the region. Except for Pefiuelas, wastes in the region
receive treatment from relatively new and efficient secondary plants. However, the discharge
locations of these treatment plants are poor. Rfo Yauco, which receives wastes treated at the
Vauco secondary plant, is dry during parts of the year. Water quality violations presently
exist in both Bah fa de Guayaniila and Bah fa de Gu^nica. Circulation within each of these
bays appears to be poor. Removal of municipal waste discharges should help to improve
these waters and prevent greater degradation of water quality in the future.
Location of trunk lines along major roads in the region vtfwe development is taking
place will allow from small communities and light industries to be easily connected to the
regional system. Flow estimates indicate that a 7 mgd secondary treatment plant will be
needed to meet 1990 waste volumes. The system wiH need to be expanded to about 12
mgd to meet 2020 requirements.
Independent Point Source Discharges
Puerto Rico Water Resources Authority South Coast Steam Plants
Sanitary wastes from the power plants should be connected to the municipal sewer
system along with any other wastes suitable for treatment in the municipal plant. Cooling
water will be discharged separately. This wastewater will have to meet thermal effluent
standards established by EQB/EPA.
Central Gu^nica and Central San Francisco
These two sugar mills collectively discharge about 40 mgd of wastewaters to Bah fa
de Guayaniila. It is unlikely that both mills will continue to operate. However, whether one
or both remain, their present wasteloads must be removed from the bays. Waste treatment
and discharge must be in accordance with guidelines to be adopted by EQB.
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Petrochemicals and Related Industries
The petrochemical in the Guayanilla region discharge many mgd of various types
of wastewaters, principally to Bahi'a de Guayanilla and Bahfa de Tallaboa. Each of these
industries will be required to provide treatment based on effluent limits to be established
by EPA and EQB. Until these effluents are established, it is not possible to determine the
exact type of treatment and disposal required of these industries. Two points are clear: the
discharges must not cause a contravention of water quality standards, and they must not
result in disruption of the municipal treatment system. Therefore, the best solution would
seem to be at this time for each of these industries to provide their own treatment, either
individually or collectively, and to dispose of the treated water outside the bays. Since the
best ocean outfall location is off Punta Ventana where the municipal outfall will be located,
the industrial wastes can probably be discharged through this same outfall. Detailed planning
and engineering studies will be required to make this determination. Only those industrial
wastes which, after proper pretreatment, are easily and safely handled by the municipal
treatment plant should be discharged to the public system.
Guayanilla Region Implementation Schedule
Priorities
The Penuelas Imhoff tank is the facility within this region requiring most immediate
attention. The other facilities within the region are all relatively new, operating below rated
capacity, and providing satisfactory treatment. However, both the Guayanilla and Gu^nica
plants will be overloaded by 1980. Since water quality conditions in Bahfa de Guayanilla
are worse than in Bahfa de GuSnica, the Guayanilla wastes should receive earlier attention.
The first stage of construction to implement the regional system should be develop-
ment of the Penuelas and Guayanilla trunk lines, the primary stage treatment plant, and the
ocean outfall. Construction of the GuSnica intercepting sewer should come next, followed by
the Vauco trunk line, and finally the secondary stage of the regional plant.
Interim Measures
While the regional system is being developed by stages, each of the existing secondary
facilities must be operated and maintained at their maximum efficiency levels to avoid further
pollution. Particular attention should be given to the Yauco plant because of its discharge to
a river with low flow. During periods of lowest flow, care should be taken to see that the plant
operates at peak efficiency and that adequate disinfection is achieved.
Ponce Region
Physical System
Topography: Topography in the Ponce region is divided between a mountainous
upland region in the north and coastal plain in the southern 40 percent of the region.
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TABLE II1-51: COST ESTIMATES; GUAYANILLA RECOMMENDED
SEWERAGE SYSTEM;
Project description: Cost ( $ 000's)
Guardca intercepting sewer:
10,5 00 lineal meters, concrete pipe 1,33 0
2 pumping stations 241
S.T. 1,571
Yauco intercepting sewer:
8,5 00 lineal meters, concrete pipe 1,273
Pefiuelas intercepting sewer:
1 0,9 0 0 lineal meters, concrete pipe 1,199
1 pumping station 12 0
S.T. 1,319
Gudvanilla intercepting sewer:
6,3 00 lineal meters, concrete pipe 1,038
Regional treatment plant:
50 0 lineal meters, concrete pipe 100
1 pumping station 200
7 MOO activated sludge treatment plant 4,685
(7 MGD primary treatment plant - 1,985)
1 , 0 00 lineal meters, concrete pipe - treatment plant 2 00
site to ooean outfall
3 ,0 00 lineal meters, concrete pipe - ocean outfall 3 ,6 00
at Punta Ventana S.T. 8,7 85
Guayani 11a regional system,S.T. 13,986
3C% contingency cost 4,196
Total $18718 2
Annual Operation and Maintenance cost:
7 MGD activated sludge treatment plant $17 0
(7 MGD primary treatment plant - 86 )
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Geology: The mountainous area of the region is composed of material of
volcanic and intrusive origin. The coastal plain is of marine origin, overlain with allu-
vial deposits. This alluvium is mainly silt, clay and gravel and are highly permeable.
Hydrology: Principal rivers in the region include Rfo Matilde, Ri'o BucanS, Ri'o
Jacaguas, Ri'o Inab6n, Ri'o Canas, Rfo Descalabrado and Ri'o Coamo. Flows in these
rivers are severely reduced during dry seasons due both to the lack of rainfall and with-
drawals of water for irrigation. Though some aquifers exist in the permeable matter
of the coastal plain, the region is generally water-poor.
Climate: Rainfall averages about 40 inches per year on the coast, and about 80
at maximum in the extreme mountainous north. Conditions such as these sometimes
unite in times of heavy rainfall to cause flash flooding; floods have been particularly
troublesome in the area of the city of Ponce. Temperatures and evapotranspiration are
generally higher than island averages.
Oceanography: Characteristic of Caribbean coast, with wide continental shelf
and reef structures in nearshore waters. Currents and tides approximate south coast
norm.
Socioeconomic Aspects
The Ponce region is located in the south-central portion of Puerto Rico, occupy-
ing a total land area of 325 square miles which corresponds to 9 percent of the island's
territory. Total regional population is estimated at 256,478 inhabitants, of which 65
percent is classified as urban.
The Ponce region is dominated by the municipio of Ponce not only because it
is the second largest municipio in Puerto Rico, but because it contains the second largest
city on the island. The city of Ponce, with a total population of 158,951 inhabitants, is
the focus of growth and development in the southern part of Puerto Rico. Rapid indus-
trialization and an even more accelerated rate of urban expansion have created a very high
dependency of the nearby municipios on Ponce for the provision of public services, com-
mercial and higher educational facilities and amenities. This growth can be expected to
continue in the coming decades. Agriculture has suffered a decline in growth as in much
of the rest of the island, partly as a result of urban expansion, which has consumed vast
amounts of land, and partly due to the droughts periodically experienced in the area. At
present, the area east of the city of Ponce has been reserved for agricultural development,
since it is among the more fertile areas in Puerto Rico. This area is mainly dedicated to
sugar cane. Other portions of the municipios are dedicated to pasture and cattle, while
others are abandoned woodlands. In the northern section, coffee is cultivated, along with
minor subsistence farming.
Industry in the region is mainly centered in the city of Ponce and, generally in the
coastal region. Manufacturing in the qrea takes various forms; from processing agricultural
products such as raw sugar, molasses, rum and milk; to sand extraction, gravel, ready-mixed
concrete, and the manufacturing of textiles and clothing. An industrial area is reserved at
Punta Cabull6n, east of the city, which is expected to be a center of employment and econo
mic activity.
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The municipios of Juana Diaz and Santa Isabel are located on the coast, east
of Ponce. Total population of the two municipios is 52,326 inhabitants, about one-
third the population of the municipios of Ponce, in approximately one-third of the
xotaS regional area. The municipios are predominantly rural with less than 11 percent
of the total population classified as urban. Most of the cultivated areas of Santa Isabel
are in sugar cane, but require irrigation. Otherwise, land is predominantly in pastures
and devoted to cattle raising. Manufacturing is minimal, notwithstanding the fact that
such activities as the processing of fruits, nectars, tomatoes and sugar cane is of impor-
tance, as in the production of asphalt. With improvement in the transportation system,
it may be expected that this area will be further opened to development due to its near-
ness to the large urban center of Ponce. The urban expansion of the city of Ponce has
also been mainly towards the east where these two municipios are located.
The remaining two municipios of Coamo and Villalha are located inland toward
the north of the region. They are located in the foothills of the Cordillera Central. The
municipio of Coamo was among the first to be founded in Puerto Rico. It is also among
the few municipios on the island that lost urban population during the last decade. Manu-
facturing was also established during the decade and has become the principal activity,
constituting 23 percent of total employment in the municipio. Growth perspective in
the municipio indicates a vigorous increase for the manufacturing sector in the future.
Agriculture is predominantly dedicated to pastures and cattle raising, but periodic
severe droughts have affected production greatly. The municipio of Villalba has exhibited
a more accelerated growth rate than Coamo. Herein is located the large Toa Vaca water
supply development. The steep to very steep topography has facilitated the development
of this project but has been detrimental to agriculture. The land is basically either wood-
lands, under coffee cultivation, or dedicated to subsistence farming. Sugar cane is also
grown in the lower part of the municipio, close to the roads.
State Roads No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3 converge at the city of Ponce. These are the
three main highways crossing the region, which witl soon be supplemented by the comple-
tion of the Autopista Las Americas, from Ponce to San Juan, and Route 10 from Ponce
to Arecibo, which is expected to be widened in the future. The area of Juana Diaz and
Santa Isabel has a limited network of secondary roads. The other three municipios are served
by a satisfactory network of secondary roeds. The city of Ponce also has the third largest
port in the island in terms of cargo handled, and the municipal airport handles small com-
mercial aircraft.
A map of the Ponce region is provided in Figure III-53. Tabfes 111-52 and 111-53
provide information on existing industries and municipal treatment facilities, respectively.
Rivers and Interior Waters
The Ponce region tends to have short and intermittent streams; Ri'o Matilde, Ri'o
Portugufis, Rfo BucanS, R(o lnab6n, Rfo Jacaguas, Rfo Canas, Rfo Descalabrado and Rfo
Coamo.
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Rfo Matilde
Rfo Matilde has high DO levels and low BOD's; however, fecal coliform and total
coliforms concentrations are exceedingly high (See Figure III 54).
Rfo Portugufes
At a point 2 miles upstream from its mouth, Fl To Portugu&z has an unusually high
nitrate concentration. This condition can be directly attributed to point source discharges.
Rfo Bucan^
BOD concentration in Rfo BucanS is low except for a 2.5 stretch upstream from its
mouth. Oxygen levels in this stretch also contravene standards while coliforms are grossly
high due to the present of raw sewage discharge.
Rfo Inab6n
At the headwaters, Rfo Inabtin has art usually high oxygen level, which exceeds
saturation in nearly all of the stations, and a very low BOD. However, the reverse is found
at the mouth where there is no DO and an average BOD of 115, with an average coliform
density of 300,000 and an average temperature of 30°C. The degraded state of the Ri'o
Inab6n is caused by point sources of pollution discharging into a river that is dry 8 months
of the year.
Rfo Coamo
A T965 study on Ft fo Coamo shows DO and BODfigures to be within the standards, but
points to a BOD violation below the discharge of the Coamo sewage treatment plant. Coli-
form content is above standards in A out of 8 stations studied. The profile of the river could
not be prepared due to a lack of appropriate information to locate the stations.
Recent data from one USGS station shows that DO is normal, BOD is within stan-
dards even though it has increased somewhat, but fecal and total coliforms have tremen-
dously high values.
There is no information on biological parameters for the other rivers in the region
and very little chemical data available.
Coastal Waters
A 1968 study of the Playa de Ponce sector west to El Tuque and southeast to Punta
Carenero shows BOD figures within standards while DO figures were in violation of standards.
Coliform counts were highelong the shore, especially near the mouth of Rfo Portuguds and
at the P6mpanos outfall.
A more detailed 1969 PR ASA study of the same area agrees with the previous study
findings. All the beach areas southeast of Punta Cuchara to the Ponce Dock have DO levels
that contravene standards. The waters in this area receive discharges from a tannery and a
tuna factory, as well as raw sewage generated by the City of Ponce. Coliform values are
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exceedingly high in the beach area southeast of Punta Cuchara. Ponce is one of the most
polluted regions with regard to coastal waters (See Figure If 1-551.
Ponce Region Alternatives
Alternative I- Local Facilities
Separate facilities for each of the towns in the Ponce region would be possible. How-
ever, the growth that has occurred and is expected to continue between Ponce and Juana D faz,
plus the availability of principally gravity flow, makes it advantageous to treat the wastes from
these two towns in a single facility.
Alternative II- Regional System
A completely regional system serving all of the municipios in this region was not con-
sidered feasible due to the distances between towns and the topographic isolation of some
areas.
Alternative III- Multiple Regional Systems
Considerations was given to providing two regional systems: one serving Ponce, Juana
Dfaz and Viflalba, and another serving Coarno and Santa Isabel. The locations and small waste
volumes of Villalba and Coamo make this system undesirable at the present time.
Alternative IV - Combination of Regional System and Separate Facilities
A regional facility serving Ponce and Juana Dfaz with separate facilities at Villalba,
Coamo and Santa Isabel provided the best combination of treatment systems. This system
also allows flexibility to provide for any changes necessary in the future. Estimated cost
of the system is $30,154,000.
Tables 111-54-55 give projected waste volumes for the Ponce region.
Ponce Region Abatement Strategy
The recommended sewage system for, the Ponce region is shown in Figure 111-56.
It consists of a regional plant and ocean outfall located west of Ponce and serving Ponce,
Juana Dfaz and nearby communities and industries. Villalba and Coamo will each have
local secondary treatment plants with river disposal. Santa Isabel will have a secondary
treatment plant with ocean disposal. Estimated cost of the system is given in Table 111-56.
Construction of the Ponce regional system will result in a significant improvement
in water quality conditions in Bahfa de Ponce, Rfo Canes, Rfo Inabdn, Ri'o Portugu&s and
Rfo Jacaguas. The existing raw sewage discharges to Bahfa de Ponce and industrial dis-
charges to the bay and river will be conveyed through a system of intercepting sewers to tht
regional plant. The recently completed 12 mgd primary plant at Ponce will have to be ex-
panded to 26 mgd and upgraded to secondary treatment to meet 1990 needs.
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The oceanographic study of the Ponce area showed surface currents predominately to the
northwest (shoreward) whereas deeper water oscillates between northwest and southeast
movement The Ponce ocean outfall is currentlly under construction, with a projected
length of 5,000 feet.
The existing Villalba secondary plant requires an expansion of 0.45 mgd to handle
waste flows in 1990. Provided the plant is operated at peak efficiency, it should be able to
provide adequate waste removal for discharge to Rfo Jacaguas. Beyond 1990, river capacity
analysis indicates advanced treatment is required. At that time consideration should be given
to land disposal or connection to the Ponce regional system.
The situation at Coamo is similar to that at Villalba. Advanced treatment may be
required by 1990. the new secondary treatment plant at Coamo must perform at its peak
level to avoid water quality problems in Rfo Coamo. A 1 mgd expansion of the newly con-
structed plant will be required to handle 1990 waste flow.
Santa Isabel will be provided with a 0.8 mgd secondary treatment plant to replace
the existing imhoff tank. Waste disposal will be by ocean outfall. No oceanographic study
has been conducted in the Santa Isabel area, but no problems are anticipated, considering
the small amount of waste to be discharged.
Independent Point Source Discharges
Except for Central Mercedita and the sand, gravel and cement industries, all the exis-
ting industries in the Ponce region can probably be connected to the municipal facilities if
proper pretreatment is provided. Special attention will have to be given to the rum and food
industries to make sure their pretreatment waste is acceptable to the municipal plant.
Ponce Region implementation Schedule
Priorities
First priority for the Ponce region is completion of the regional system by construc-
ting the trunk sewers to Juana Dfazand the industrial and residential areas. The plant should
also be expanded to provide adequate capacity for the increased waste loads.
Following completion of the Ponce regional system, the secondary plant and ocean
outfall at Santa Isabel should be built. Villalba and Coamo plants should be expanded as
necessary. The Ponce plant should be upgraded to secondary treatment.
Guayama Region
Physical System
Topography: The Guayama region is characterized by a close approach of the moun-
tain crest to the southern seacoast. The region consists generally of a mountain upland region
in its northern areas, from which occasional low ridges extend southward, and a zone of aliu-
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vial and some marsh and playa deposits near the coast. Distinct from the rest of the
region is the municipio of Maunabo, which is centered on the watershed of Rfo Mau-
nabo, and separated from the rest of the region topographically by a subrange of
foothills.
Geology: The mountain belt is formed of volcanic and intrusive rocks, and the
foothill zone of limestone of marine origin and volcanic tuffs and breccia. The coastal
plain is largely unconsolidated sediment and alluvial reflecting its origins in the rocky
areas upstream.
Hydrology: Principal rivers in the region are RlbSalinas, Rfo Majada, Rfo Patillas
and Rfo Maunabo, as well as several minor independent streams. Man-made Lago Patillas
and Lago Carite are reservoirs; Lago Patillas' waters are irrigation supply only, while Lago
Carite supplies irrigation and drinking water and electric power. Ground water is derived
mainly from aquifers associated with alluvial fan deposits. Water scarcity is not pronoun-
ced except in the western part of the region and along the southwest coast.
Oceanography: The continental shelf remains wide at the coast of the Guayama
region, and extends away from the Puerto Rican coast altogether toward the Virgin
Islands past Punta Ola Grande. Though the wide shelf reduces the influence of onshore
surf ai^d storm seas, local tide and current conditions are confused by the meeting of
Atlantic and Caribbean wind, tide and current regimes off the Guayama-Maunabo coast
(See II Physical System; Oceanography).
Climate: Rainfall conditions vary in the region between north and south and
between east and west. Rainfall is not abundant in any case in the region due to the "rain
shadow" of the Cordillera Central, though the Maunabo basin and parts of the eastern area
of the region are moderately well-supplied. Scarcity occurs most in the western and coastal
areas of the region, particularly in Guayama and Salinas. Average rainfall ranges from about
80 inches in the mountain highlands to 50 in Maunabo and 40 inches per year along the
southern coasts. Temperatures are not extraordinary in the uplands but are higher than the
island average in the south and west, as is evapotcanspiration.
Socioeconomic Aspects
The Guayama region is located on the southeast corner of the island approximately
23 miles from the city of Ponce along State Road No. 3. It is constituted by the municipios
of Salinas, Guayama, Arroyo, Patillas and Maunabo, occupying a total land area of 218 square
miles. Total population for the region in 1970 was estimated at 99,739 persons, of which
41 percent or 41,017 were classified as urban. This represents 3.6 percent of total popu-
lation of the island. Population growth during the decade was fairly stable registering a 1.7
percent increase during the period. This is so because some of the municipios lost popula-
tion, white others increased, and one, Maunabo, registered a negligible increase of 7 inha-
bitants.
The municipios of Salinas and Guayama, the largest in the grouping, occupy 61 percent
of the regional span, and contain for 58 percent of total population and 80 percent of the
urban population. Salinas, however, exhibited a 5.6 percent decrease in total population as
as consequence of a population exodus from the rural zone towards the urban area of the
municipio, and other urban centers in search of better employment opportunities. Almost
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all the rural zone of the municipio is dedicated to pastures and brushlands. Sugar cane
is carried out only in those small portions where irrigation exists. The upland slopes are
too steep or soils too dry for any use other than pasture. Sugar refining is the main in-
dustrial activity of the area.
The municipio of Guayama exhibited a slight decrease in population in the rural
zone. At the same time, the increase registered in total population can be attributed to
the urban growth of the municipio. Among the agricultural products cultivated is sugar
cane, mainly along the coastal plain. The interior upland consists of woodland, small
coffee areas and minor crops. Industries are proliferating in the area, mainly in the form
of petroleum and petrochemical derivatives. The natural seaport at Jobos Bay was the
proposed site for the establishment of a nuclear power station to have been constructed
between 1972-75, but presently suspended for reasons of adverse environmental impact.
The remaining three municipios in the region are basically rural in character, and
one, Maunabo, is considered 100 percent rural by Census Standards. Total population
of the 3 is 41 percent of regional population in an approximate area of 84 square miles
which corresponds to 38 percent of total land area in the region. Agriculture in the area
has exhibited a marked decline during the last ten years. The lowlands are almost totally
in sugar cane, but productivity is highly dependent on irrigation and the use of fertilizers.
The uplands are mostly semi-arid, devoted to pastures and minor crops. Coffee is poorly
managed and of low yields. Light industry has also arrived in this area in the form of
sand and gravel extraction, sugar cane refining, production of cleaners and dyers, some
manufacturing of textiles and metal goods.
The major highway in the region is State Road No. 3, linking Humacao with
Ponce via Guayama. The Autopista Las Americas will serve the western portion of the
region when completed. In other areas there are few roads and travel is relatively diffi-
cult. Otherwise, secondary and tertiary roads serve the rest of the region.
A map of the Guayama region is provided in Figure 111-57. Tables 111-57 and
111-58 provide information on existing industries and municipal treatment facilities, res-
rectively.
Guayama Region Present Water Quality
Rivers and Interior Waters
The largest rivers in the region are R fo Grande de Patillas and R i'o Maunabo. They
are also the only ones on which there is any information on water quality. Rfo Maunabo,
as reported in a 1968 study, is a very clean stream in terms of its DO content, BOD and
fecal coliform levels (see Fig. III-59). Rfo Grande de Patillas (Fig. III-58) is also a very
clean stream except for its coliform content, which is very high. All of its tributaries
have an exceedingly high coliform count as well. The only information available on
Rfo Chico is from one station sampled during the study of Rfo Grande de Patillas, and
it shows a total coliform violation of BOD, DO and coliform standards. No information
is available on the water quality of Rfo Nigua.
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In general, rivers in the South Coast are dry most of the time. Nearly all of
the tributaries of the R fo Grande de Patllias were dry at the time of the survey.
Coastal Waters
Within the Guayama Region the following coastal waters have been studied:
Bah fa de Arroyo, Bah la de Guayama, and Bah fa de Jobos.
Bah fa de Arroyo has a BOD problem as well as coiiform violations on the shore
near the town. Coiiform violations are also shown on the study of Bah fa de Guayama
close to the town of Arroyo.
In general, and according to the 1965 Survey, the sanitary conditions of Jobos
Bay and adjacent waters are good, except for an area fropting Central Aguirre (See
Figure 111-60).
Guayama Region Alternatives
Alternative I - Local Facilities
Separate sewerage systems for each of the municipios of the Guayama region was
not considered feasible. Except for Rfo Maunabo, all of the streams in the region have zero
flow during parts of the year. This would necessitate for each system either ocean outfalls
or some type of water reuse. The use of four or five outfalls within the region was objec-
tions! due to limited sites for proper ocean waste disposal. Although water reuse at one
or more of the systems is possible, the time required to conduct proper studies and pilot
projects would unnecessarily delay improvement of waste disposal within the region.
Alternative 11 - Regional System
A completely regional system collecting wastes from each of the five municipios
within the Guayama region is feasible. However, the topographical isolation of the small
town of Maunabo makes this alternative unattractive. Maunabo is located in a small
valley surrounded by the Cuchilla de Panduras on the north and the Sierra de Guarda-
rraya on the south and west. These mountains have an average elevation of over 400 me-
ters. Existing roads north to Yabucoa cross qver these mountains preventing economical
interbasin transfer of wastes. To the south, a coastal road connects with Patillas and Arroyo,
but the terrain is rough, and the distance from Maunabo to Arroyo is 17 miles. The small
flow that would be transported over this distance plus the few homes that would be served
along the route would cause high per capita construction costs. Additionally, waste disposal
to Rfo Maunabo should be acceptable.
Alternative III - Combination of Regional System and Local Facilities
By far the most attractive alternative for the Guayama region was the use of a
regional system to be supplemente by local facilities in those areas that could not be
connected to the regional system for economic or environmental reasons.
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Guayama, Arroyo, and Patillas are located very near to each other, and no
major topographical features prevent economical waste transport between the towns.
Maunabo was previously identified (Alternative II) as not being suitable for connection
to a regional system.
Because of the distance (14 mifes) between Salinas and Guayama, consideration
was given to a separate facility at Salinas. However, the choice of a separate facility at
Salinas rather than connecting Salinas to a regional plant was rejected for two principal
reasons. First, no adequate ocean disposal site exists near Salinas. Distances to water
depths of 50 feet or mora are generally over two miles and/or reefs and small islands
are abundant in the area. Second, there are several small communities that could be
easily served by a sewer line connecting Salinas and Guayama.
The resultant alternative for the Guayama region, and the only alternative for
which cost estimates were prepared, is the development of a regional system serving
Salinas, Guayama, Arroyo and Patillas with a separate facility for Maunabo. Estimated
construction cost of this system is about $17 million.
Guayama Region Abatement Strategy
Location of the Guayama regional plant was primarily dependent upon selec-
tion of the best ocean outfall location. Preliminary inspection showed that deep water
could be reached closer to shore at Punta Figuras and at Punta Ola Grande. An oceano-
graphic study in the spring of 1970 confirmed that the best location for an ocean out-
fall would be one of these two stronger currents that were more consistently offshore
than in other areas. The strongest and most consistent current patterns were observed
offshore from Punta Ola Grande. Winds in the area appear to be from the east about
70 percent of the time and shoreward less than 10 percent. This same study also showed
that the present Guayama outfall location was not acceptable because of shallow depths,
nu merous reefs, and a concave shoreline that prevents rapid dispersion of wastes.
Because of most favorable oceanographic conditions at Punta Ola Grande and its
location near the center of the areas to be served by the regional plant, Punta Ola Grande
was selected as the site for ocean disposal. It is also desirable because Guayama has the
largest volume of waste flow from both municipal and industrial sectors.
The 1971 Oceanographic Sutdy found currents off Punta Ola Grande to occur in
alf directions but most predominantly to the west. Currents shifts to the east were observed
to occur as depth increased.
Prior to expansion of the Maunabo treatment plant, a careful study of Rfo Maunabo
should be performed to better determine the existing water quality and the river's assimi-
lative capacity. It his water quality study reveals that Rt'o Maunabo is affected by a salt
water wedge, sand bar formation at its mouth, and poor subsurface water quality condi-
tions, then waste disposal should be extended to the ocean following sufficient oceano-
graphic study. If river disposal continues, plant operation and maintenance must be care-
fully controlled to ensure highest possible levels of waste removal.
Consti uction costs to meet 1990 needs are estimated at $811,000 and are shown
in Table 111-61.
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Guayama, Salinas, Arroyo, Patillas:
Wastewater from the towns of Guayama, Salinas, Arroyo, Patillas and other urba-
nizations within the region will be transported by trunk lines to a treatment plant located
on the coast south of Guayama and just southeast of the Fibers International and Philips
Core Industrial plant sites (see map, Figure II1-61. After treatment in a secondary plant,
wastewater will be conveyed by gravity to the tip of Punta Ola Grande, through an ocean
outfall, and then pass through a diffuser to final disposal in the Caribbean Sea.
Flowesimates indicate the need for a 7.3 mgd. treatment plant to handle waste
loads at the regional plant until 1990. Subsequent plant expansions to about 12 mgd.
will be required. Construction co"sts for the regional plant trunk lines and ocean outfall
are estimated $16,189,000. A breakdown of costs is provided in TAble 111-61.
Figure III - 61 shows the recommended wastewater treatment system for the
Guayama region. It consists of a regional secondary plant and ocean outfall near Guayama
serving the municipios of Salinas, Guayama, Patillas and Arroyo. Maunabo will be served
by a separate secondary system discharging to Ri'o Maunabo.
Maunabo
The recommended plant at Maunabo calls for the construction of the present system
followed by expansion of the secondary plant to 0.45 mgd. to meet 1990 wasteloads, and an
eventual plant capacity of approximately 1.6 mgd. The existing secondary treatment facility
is about ten years old and appears to be operating (see table III-58). Although the plant is
presently operating at nearly 100 percent of its design capacity, proper operation and main-
tenance should prevent the development of any public health hazard if the plant load exceeds
design capacity. Since about 80 percent of the town of Maunabo is already connected to the
sanitary sewerage system, no extension of that sewer system should occur until plant capa-
city can be expanded.
Since waste discharges from Maunabo are small and there appear to be no present
problems with river water quality, it is recommended that disposal to Rio Maunabo continue.
Analyses of expected waste loads versus the capacity of Ri'o Maunabo to absorb those wastes
indicate that disposal to Rio Maunabo should be acceptable (assuming 85 percent removal of
wastes) until about 1990. From 1990 to 2020 Ri'o Maunabo may still be able to handle all
of Maunabo's wastewaters if up to 95 percent of wastes can be removed.
Independent Point Source Discharges
Aguirre Power Complex: The existing fossil fueled power plant at Bah fa de Jobos
plus the two new fossil units now under construction will discharge a total of more than
1,000 mgd. of cooling water (salt water from Bah fa de Jobos) at about 39°C (approxi-
mately 10°C above ambient temp.). As now planned, discharge will be through a special
canal to the Aguirre Ship Channel in outer Bahi'a de Jobos. This discharge is presently
under review since, as planned violations of water quality standards would occur.
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Central Aguirre
Central Aguirre is one of the largest sugar processing plants in Puerto Rico. It
presently discharges several waste streams with high pollution levels in the form of BOD,
SS, and temperature. Since the present discharge to Bahfa de Jobos results in depressed
water quality, improvements must be made. Central Aguirre operations must be modified
to conform with the recommendations presented in Chapter II, Section C.
Phillips P.R. Core Inc. and Fibers International
Phillips P.R. Core treats the waste waters of Fibers International along with their
own wastes, which after treatment are discharged through a canal to Puerto Las Mareas.
These plants produce petrochemicals and nylon polyester fibers. Their wastes are complex
and contain several agents that could be disruptive to standard treatment processes. The
companies have made large investments in their own treatment facilities, which along need
ing improvement in their own treatment facilities, which although needing improvement in
some areas, are providing generally adequate treatment. However, the discharge to near
shore ocean waters is not adequate. It is recommended that Phillips P.R. Core and Fibers
International continue to treat their own wastes. The treated effluent should then be dis
charged with treated municipal wastes through the proposed ocean outfall. A common
discharge is proposed due to the expense of building ocean outfall, the lack of other
adequate outfall locations, and the nearness of Phillips and Fibers to the proposed outfall.
Guayama Region Implementation Schedule
Priorities
The raw discharges at Guayama and Arroyo deserve first and immediate attention.
Construction should begin immediately on the regional treatment plant, ocean outfall,
and Arroyo intercepting sewer.
The primary stage of the secondary treatment plant should be given first priority
so that it becomes operational when the outfall and Arroyo trunk lines are completed. The
Salinas trunk line should be constructed next, followed by expansion of Maunabo plant.
Finally the Patillas trunk line should be built and the secondary stage of the regional plant
completed.
Interim measures
Immediate attention must be given to increasing the efficiency of the Patillas and
Maunabo exfsting secondary plants through improved operation and maintenance. Condi-
tions reported to and inspected by PRASA indicate that the community of Coquf between
Salinas and Guayama is in need of an immediate wastewater collection and treatment sys-
tem to alleviate health hazards arising from inadequate septic tanks and oesspools A provi-
sional package treatment plant with interceptor sewer, and ocean outfall to Bahfa de Jobos
will be constructed to meet this critical need. The interceptor sewer will be constructed
so that it may become a part of the Salinas to Guayama intercepting sewer. Total cost of
this temporary measure is estimated at $600,000.
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Humacao Region
Physical System
Topography: The Humacao region's topography is divided between mountainous
interior and coastal plain, as is often found in other management regions, and by valley
areas created by the flow of rivers southeast to the sea. Yabucoa, Naguabo and Humacao
each occupy such a valley region.
Geology: The material of the mountain upland is largely quartz diorite and grano
diorite plutonic rock, and the composition of the alluvium downstream reflects this origin.
In the Yabucoa municipio, granitoid volcanic rock of Cretaceous origin predominates, the
rocks have been weathered rather than eroded. The basement of the Yahucoa valley sec
tion is igneous in origin and broken in topography. In the Naguabo and Humacao sections,
coastal alluvium is overlain by patches of swamp and marsh deposits.
Hydrology: Principal rivers in the region are Rfo Guayan^s, Ri'o Blanco, Ri'o San-
tiago Rfo Humacao and Rfo Candelero. The region is relatively well-supplied with ground
and surface water.
Climate: Average rainfall ranges from less than 80 inches per year at the seacost
to 90 inches in the mountains. Temperatures and evapotranspiration are not extraordinary.
Oceanography: The region faces a wide stretch of continental shelf and consequently
calmer seas than on more exposed coasts, though the removal of influence by deep ocean
currents causes erratic local current conditions to predominate Mixing of Caribbean and
Vieques Sound waters may cause local current anomalies at some seasons. Winds may domi
Date tide and current patterns since the region lies obliquely to windward on the island.
Socioeconomic Aspects
The Humacao region, located in the east-southeast section of Puerto Rico, occupies
a total land area of 152 square miles. Total population is 84,184 persons, constituting 3
percent of total population of the island. Population classified as urban is 24,'890 or 30
percent of the total regional population.
The municipiosof Yabucoa, Humacao and Naguabo, which constitute the region,
have traditionally been oriented towards agriculture, mainly cultivating sugar cane. How-
ever, this sector, which has exhibited a decline in importante during the last 20 years,
provoked anexodus of population away from the region at the same time that it markedly
increased unemployment of those that remained behind. The region has been selected as
one of the main areas to which industrialization should be taken in an effort to decentra-
lize the same from the SJMA. However* this did not go hand with the decline experienced
in agriculture and it wasn't urrtil 1968 that wmployment figures took an uptrend due ft) the
establishment of the Sun Oil Company petrochemical complex and other complimentary
facilities in the municipio of Yabucoa.
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A district center, the municipio of Humacao has a total population of 36,023
persons. This 43 percent of the regional total. 50 percent of the population in the
municipio is classified as urban and the trend toward greater urbanization can be expec-
ted to increase since this municipio experienced the highest increment of growth of the
regional constituents. Humacao has the largest number of manufacturing establishements
of the 3. The most important operation in terms of employment lies in the apparel indus-
try. As to agriculture, sugar cane stands out as the only important agricultural yield. Still
another activity which can be expected to augment the economic base of the municipio is
the Humacao Regional College, an extramural extension of the University of Puerto Rico.
Yabucoa is the southernmost and the largest of the three municipios with a total
population of 30,165 persons, of which 32 percent can be classified as urban population.
Population growth during the decade has been fairly stable having increased by only 1.3
percent. The main economic activities of the municipio
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However, more recent data reports a higher dissolved oxygen concentration as well as
a higher BOD and an extremely high coliform count (nearly 30 times the value repor-
ted in 1964) (See Figure III-63). As reported in the survey, the tributaries of Rfo Hu-
macao are very clean streams.
Rfo Santiago
Rio Santiago is supersaturated with oxygen throughout its length. The BOD
of its waters is negligible, being equal to or below the background value for the island.
Its coliform population is relatively small compared to other streams in the island, and
what exists is the result of the discharge of the Naguabo sewage treatment plant. Que-
brada Grande, its only tributary, also exhibits very high water quality. (See Figure
111-64).
Rfo Blanco
Rfo Blanco does not have any point sources of pollution. The quality of its
waters is high, although there exists a danger of degradation brought about by Quebrada
Pena Pobre, which apparently receives raw sewage discharges (as reflected by relatively
high BOD and high coliform counts) from the village of the same name. There is no
information available on biological and physical parameters for the rest of the rivers
in the region (See Figure 111-65).
Coastal Waters
Bahi'a de Humacao
Analyses performed near shore show violations of the coliform standard all
along the shore, while those taken in Vieques Passage show no violation whatsoever.
BOD and DO values are within standards {See Figure 111-66).
Bahi'a de Yabucoa
According to the standards for SE waters, Bahfa de Yabucoa complies with the
criteria established for waters receiving industrial discharges. Dissolved oxygen concen-
trations show little oxygen depletion in the bay. BOD is almost nil. Cotiforms vary from
0 to a little over 3000 MPN/100 ml. According to a 1968 study, the coliform count near
the Playa de Guayanfis and the mouth of Rfo Guayan^s was relatively high. A 1969 survey
shows almost no bacteria in this same area, in agreement with a 1972 survey which shows
a variation between 0 and 200 MPN/100 ml (See Figure 111-67).
Preliminary results of an unpublished 1971 study of the bay, conducted by EQB,
shows that in general the bay has high quality waters. All of the rivers discharging into the
bay mMt water quality standards except Cafio Santiago and a creek near Luc fa Resort.
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In Cafio Santiago, DO and BOD standards were violated by 66 percent of the
samples taken. Coliform standards were violated at all points. In the creek adjoining
the Luc fa Retort, 75 percent of the samples taken violated DO standards.
In general, pollution from streams does not seem to affect the quality of the
waters of the bay to any considerable degree.
Bah fa de Naguabo
Bah fa de Naguabo is a relatively polluted bay since it has a high coliform count
near the shore, especially at Playa de Naguabo and Playa Hucares. BOD values in these
places are also high, and the DO concentration is below standards. However, more recent
information is needed to effectively evaluate the water quality of the bay. (See Figure
111-68).
Humacao Re&on Abatement Strategy
The recommended system for the Humacao region is shown in Figure 111-69. It
consists of a regional plant at Humacao serving Humacao, Naguabo and Las Piedras, and
a local facility for Yabucoa.
Trunk lines will carry wastes from Las Piedras and Naguabo to the regional treat-
ment planta located east of Humacao. Wastes from all three towns will be treated at the
secondary treatment plant and disposal of through a long ocean outfall and diffuser. Pro-
jected waste volume for 1990 is 9 mgd. Cost estimates are given in Table 111-66.
Both Humacao and Las Piedras have Imhoff tanks at present, while Naguabo has
a septic tank. Development of the regional system will improve water quality conditions
in Rfo Blanco, Rfo Humacao and the creek to which Las Piedras discharges.
Oceanographic studies of Humacao indicate variable currents and shallow depths.
To meet water quality standards, the outfall will have to be constructed to a length of
about 3,000 meters.
Yabucoa will continue to use its present treatment facility. Expansion of the
plant by 2.2 mgd. will be required to meet 1990 needs. Waste disposal is a problem for
the Yabucoa f>lant. The present discharge is to Cano Santiago. An examination of river
capacity and municipal waste loads must be made to ensure that water quality standards
will be met. It may be necessary to move the discharge point of the treatment plant or
the sugar mill operationg in the area. If it isidetermined that an ocean outfall is required,
then consideration should be given to land disposal, higher level of treatment or connect-
ing to the Humacao regional plant.
Independent Point Source Discharges
Central Roig will be required to meet treatment and disposal guidelines that lead to
little or no discharge. In-plant improvements and use of wastewaters for irrigation will be
inquired.
The P.R. Sun Oil Refinery Company will also have to provide its own treatment and
waste disposal in accordance with effluent limitations to be adopted by EQB.
Chemical industries operating in the region will have to be examined to determine if
they can discharge to the municipal facilities after pretreatment.
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Humacao Region Implementation Schedule
Priorities
The entire regional system is in need of immediate construction. If funds are avail-
able for simultaneous construction of the entire system, then the Naguabo trunk line should
be constructed first to connect to the regional plant along with Humacao. Although the
Las Piedras Imhoff tank is severely overloaded and discharges to a small creek, wastes
from the Naguabo septic tank flow through a cane field before reaching Rio Blanco. The
regional treatment plant should initially be constructed for the primary stage only. The
secondary stage will be completed after other needs are met.
The Vabucoa plant should be expanded after the regional trunk lines are ready.
Offshore Islands Region
Physical System
Topography: The offshore Islands management region consists of the two islands
of Vieques and Culebra. They lie in the Vieques Sound to the east of Puerto Rico, between
the east coast of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Vieques, the larger island, lies about
17 miles southeast of Punta Lima in the Yabucoa management region: Culebra is about
20 miles east of Cabeza de San Juan in the Fajardo region. The islands are about 9 miles
apart. Vieques is 18 miles long and 4 miles wide, encompassing about 51 square miles.
Culebra is considerably smaller in extent and area, about 8 miles long and 4 wide at extre-
mities, with an area of about 20 square miles. The topography on both islands is broken,
not mountainous but hilly. Vieques is more upraised in its western end, with a peak of 915
feet as the highest point on the island. A plateau dissected by watercourses is less regularly
shaped and featured than Vieques and is broken by many series of peaks and valleys.
Geology: Both islands were formed of volcanic and intrusive rock, mainly grano-
diorite and andesitic lava and tuffs and breccia. Some limestone of marine origin is found
on Vieques in minor outcroppings Valleys on both islands are filled to varying degrees
with alluvia reflecting these origins. The coastal plain area in Vieques is formed of fluvial
clay, gravel and granodioritic matter. Beaches on both islands are extensive (more so on
Vieques) and formed largely of calcareous marine matter rather than silica sand.
Hydrology: There is no perennial fresh water stream on either island. Intermittent
streams exist after heavy enough rainfalls. All fresh water ponds are man-made on both
islands, though natural salt lagoons exist near the coasts. Ground water is derived on both
islands from batteries of wells tapping aquifers storing water in breaks in or above the vol-
canic bedrock. Various wells tap alluvium derived from granodiorite on both islands. The
principal well zone on Culebra is less than one acre in extent and lies near the principal
population center. There are four well batteries on Vieques near the center of the island
and slightly to the south.
Oceanography: Both islands lie on the continental shelf encompassing Puerto Rico
and the Virgin Islands, and waters nearby do not exceed150 feet in depth. Currents affecting
the area are localized and affected by winds, tides and seasons. Coastlines of the two islands
differ in that the coasts of Vieques are fairly regular, except for the occurrence of bays on its
south coast. Culebrd's coastline is deeply broken and torturous. Extensive and beautiful reef
formations abound in waters surrounding both islands.
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Climate: Rainfall on the offshore islands is light, averaging about 40 inches per
year. Temperature and evapotranspiration are both slightly higher than Puerto Rican
averages. The islands lie in the path of the trade winds which blow steadily from ENE.
Socioeconomic Aspects
The islands of Culebra and Vieques are both legally constituted municipios of
Puerto Rico, but their insular character differentiates them from the main island in
many ways.
In population and size they are among the smallest municipios in Puerto Rico.
Total resident population of Culebra in 1970 was estimated at 736 inhabitants. On the
island of Vieques an estimated 7,800 persons are found. It should be noted, however,
that neither figure includes the number of military or rvaval personnel stationed there.
Both islands are partially under Federal jurisdiction for military and security reasons.
This includes about 33 percent of Culebra and 70 percent of Vieques.
Regarding the urban standing of the communities, it has been found that neither
the town of Dewey nor the town of Isabel II have sufficient population to constitute
urban nuclei, according to Census definitions. Nevertheless, both are municipal centers
and supply basic needs and services for their respective populations.
The economic activity previously generated on these islands was mainly agriculture;
predominating sugar cane, produce and cattle raising. At present, cattle raising constitutes
the main economic activity in Culebra. These islands, which are suffering greatly from the
decline experienced in the agricultural sector, supplemented their economy in great mea-
sure by employment offered by both the Commonwealth and Federal governments. Business,
light industrial activity, commercial fishing and tourism play minor but potentially important
roles in sustaining the economies of these islands.
Their insular character which makes them unique among the regions of Puerto Rico,
has also affected them in still another way. The principal means of communication of these
islands with the outside world is air service, which is provided at least one daily, depending
on demand. A regular sea service exists which is less flexible thanthe air service. Telephone
service is also inadequate. Last, but not feast, the road system is of a secondary nature, in
some cases, unpaved. This situation, however, is desirable, since the distances, topography
and low traffic of the islands would probably restrict any consideration of aprimary system.
A map of the Offshore Islands region is provide in Figure III-70. Table 111-67 pro-
vides information on municipal treatment facilities.
Offshore tstands Present Water Quality
Vieques
The discharge from the sewage treatment plant constitutes the major water pollution
problem in Vieques. The General Electric Plant is the only industrial discharger that affects
water quality significantly.
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TABLE 111-68: PROJECTED WASTEWATER FLOWS-OFFSHORE ISLANDS'
d
JO
Total
1970
1980
1990
2000
2020
2.4
3.0
5.1
%
6.5
7.8
.8
2.4
4.8
6.5
7.8
Population
Sewered Population
V/astouater
Domestic .033 .120 .263 .387 ,507
Commercial .021 .048 .101 .142 .172
Infiltration .012 ,036 .072 .097 ,117
Light Industry
.068 .204 .436 .626 .796
*Population 1n thousands
Wastewater flows 1n MGD
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TABLE 111-69: COST ESTIMATES; OFFSHORE ISLANDS RECOMMENDED
SEWERAGE SYSTEM (CULEBRA):
Cost estimates - Culebra recommended sewerage system:
Project description: Cost ( $ 000'
0.0 5 MGD activated sludge treatment plant 120
600 lineal meters, concrete pipe - ocean outfall 720
Sub-Total 840
30% Contingency cost 2 52
Culebra - Total $ 1,092
Operation and Maintenance cost:
0.0 5 MGD activated sludge treatment plant 30
Cost estimates - Vieques recommended sewerage system:
Project description: Cost ( $ 000'
0.5 MGD activated sludge treatment plant 620
(0.5 MGD primary treatment plant - 3 00 )
$00 lineal meters, concrete pipe - treatment plant 55
site to oceari outfall
500 lineal meters, concrete pipe - ocean outfall 600
Sub-Total 1,27 5
3 0% contingency cost 3 83
Vieques - Total $ 1,6 58
Operation and Maintenance cost:
0.5 MGD activated sludge treatment plant $ 2 0
(0.5 primary treatment plant - 15 )
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Poor water quality conditions are suspected at Red Beach near the Mosquito Bay
area due to the raw sewage discharge of the Navy facilities at Camp Garcfa.
Bilharzia problems in Vieques have been brought under control.
Ground water quality is rapidly deteriorating as the demand for it increases and
hence the rate of pumping also increases.
Culebra
Culebra's water quality is endangered by increasing amounts of untreated sewage
and solid wastes dumped into Ensenada Honda and the clearing of vegetation on adjacent
hill slopes. However, on the east side of Dewey, where there are several houses along the
shore, no indications of the harmful effects of water pollution have been observed. Turtle
grass covers the bottom and no traces of dying animals were seen. However, the bottom is
littered with bottles, cans and other debris. The channel separating the southeast part of the
island from the northwest contains large quantities of suspended solids. Dissolved oxygen
is relatively high in the area studied except at one station which is probably showing the
effect of the oxygen demand exerted by the wastes discharged into the bay. (Very little
water quality data is available on the islands of Culebra and Vieques.)
Offshore Islands Alternatives
The alternatives for waste treatment at Vieques and Culebra are to provide standard
secondary treatment with ocean outfalls, or to provide some type of water reuse for these
water-deficient islands. Since additional studies are needed to make a determination of water
reuse possibilities, and since an alternative disposal method would probably be needed with
a reclamation project, standard secondary treatment and ocean outfalls are recommended
at this time. Table 111-68 gives projected waste volumes for Culebra-Vieques.
Abatement Strategy
Isabel Segunda on Vieques presently has 0.13 mgd secondary treatment plant which
is nearing capacity. This facility should be expanded to 0.5 mgd for 1990 requirements. An
ocean outfall will be constructed off Punta Mulas.
Culebra has no public sewer system at the moment. An entire system of collec-
tors, treatment plant and ocean outfall is needed. Since little or no growth is expected
for the island, a 0.06 mgd secondary plant should be sufficient for future needs. An ocean
outfall will be buifc at Punta Melones and the treatment plant located near Playa Sardinas I.
No oceanographic studies have been performed for the islands. Such studies will
be necessary prior to development of the recommended outfalls. Cost estimates are given
in table III-68 and Figure 111-71 shows the locations of the recommended facilities.
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General Summary of Recommended Construction
The following pages concluding Chapter III represent a brief summary of the
recommended regional sewerage discussed previously, on an islandwide basis. Figure
111-72 shows the entire islandwide sewerage system proposed by this study. Table 111-69
shows estimated costs of construction. Table 111-70 sets forth estimates of operating and
maintenance costs for the recommended system.
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Chapter IV
Implementation
LEGISLATIVE AND INSTITUTIONAL STRUCTURE
Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972 (P. L. 92-500)
During the last several years the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
(as amended} has provided the major basis for action in the water pollution con-
trol field. Most Commonwealth laws and regulations were prepared under require-
ments of the law and in accordance with regulations and guidelines issued by Fede-
ral agencies implementing the law. This water quality management plan was begun as
a result of sections of the law.
In October, 1972, the Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972 (P L
92 500) was passed and entirely replaced the previous law and earlier amendments. The
1972 Act is the most comprehensive example of water related environmental legislation
yet approved in the United States. All existing Commonwealth laws and regulations
dealing with water pollution will have to be brought into conformance with the Act and
subsequent regulations issued by EPA, administrative agency for the Act. This plan will
be implemented under the requirements of the 1972 Act.
The changes which the Act has imposed on water quality management procedures,
and on existing laws, may be summed up very briefly as follows:
1. The Federal share of funding sewage treatment plants outfalls and primary collec-
tor systems has been raised from 55 percent to 75 percent of costs.
2. The law mandates a "fair share" of operating costs of water quality management
facilities to be borne by all users of these facilities.
3. New federal guidelines provide that all waters in any state must be safe for
recreation and wildlife by 1983: no pollutants may be discharged at all, except as speci-
fied by the Act, after 1985.
4. No new primary treatment plants will be funded after 1974.
5. By 1977, all primary treatment plants are to be upgraded to secondary capa-
bility.
6. Industries must repay a proportion of Federal grant monies proportional to
their use of sewerage facilities or the design volumes demand of their effluent facilities.
7. Local authorities may retain 50 percent of industrial repayment funds each
year, up to the amount of the local matching share, for expansion and construction of
facilities.
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8. Infiltration into sanitary sewers must be reduced to federally-approved levels.
9. In the course of execution and design of sewage treatment management facil-
ities, alternative courses of action must be considered and the best practicable technology
applied at once.
10. Allocation of funds within a state will be based on the condition of greatest
leed and will be adjusted periodically.
For convenience, sections of the act most applicable to the development and
implementation of this plan have been included as Appendix E.
Responsible Agencies
The provision for most public services in Puerto Rico is the responsibility of the
Commonwealth government and its departments, agencies and public corporations. These
organizations have islandwide authority. Municipio government generally has little authority
or responsibility. This situation holds true for the provision of sanitary sewerage services
and facilities.
Though a number of Federal and Commonwealth government units will exercise
some action authority in the process of implementing this plan, the major share of that
burden will fall on four agencies. The Environmental Protection Agency is the principal
federal agency involved. Within the Commonwealth government, the Environmental
Quality Board and'the Planning Board will function as policy making and regulatory powers
while the Aqueduct and Sewer Authority will undertake construction activities, and will
be responsible for operation and maintenance, A description of the general and specific
authorities and responsibilities of these agencies follows.
Environmental Protection Agency
The Environmental Protection Agency is the Commonwealth's principal liaison with
the federal government in most areas of environmental concern. EP A's function is to over-
see water quality management operations carried out by the Commonwealth government and
to ensure that federal requirements are met and federal regulations are not contravened.
Specifically, EPA is responsible for carrying out the directives of PL 92-500 and
seeing that the requirements of this Law and EPA regulations relating to the law are met.
EPA must approve all plans, engineering reports, and detailed plans and specifications prior
to releasing federal funds for construction of sewage facilities. EPA must approve local
water quality standards, surveillance and monitoring program, and must issue discharge
permits to local industries until the EQB achieves full legal authority to assume this function.
EPA issues effluent limitations that govern the amount of waste a municipality or industrial
wastewater treatment facility may discharge. EPA is the source of federal funds for both
planning and construction.
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Puerto Rico Environmental Quality Board (EQB}
The Environmental Quality Board was created in 1970. It is responsible for
developing public policy in environmental matters and for protecting the quality of
Puerto Rico's environment. The EQB is the official Water Pollution Control Agency
in Puerto Rico, and, as such, is responsible for planning for water quality management,
dewloping regulations for the control and prevention of water pollution, and enforcing
applicable laws and regulations.
This current Water Quality Management Plan was developed by the EQB and
EQB will be responsible for seeing that its recommendations are carried out. All action
taken as a result of this plan must be approved by EQB and certified as being in accor-
dance with the plan or any approved modification. Any action that significantly affects the
environment must be approved by the EQB through an Environmental Impact Statement
to be prepared by the responsible party. To enhance this process, EQB must work closely
with PRASA and their consultants as well as the Planning Board during the development of
subsequent implementation processes.
EQB is also responsible for several other actions required by this Water Quality Manage-
ment Plan. It must periodically review and revise water quality standards, conduct monitoring
and surveillance of receiving water bodies and sources of pollution, and enforce violations of
standards or effluent limitation.
Additionally the EQB must work with the Federal Environmental Protection Agency
to issue discharge permits to all significant point sources of pollution.
Puerto Rico Planning Board (P B }
The Planning Board, created in 1942, is responsible for overall planning in Puerto
Rico. It exercises the widest and most direct authority concerning policies and plans for
development It is the Planning Board that issues final permits for all types of construction,
both public and private. Hence, any specific construction proposal resulting from this plan
or from more detailed engineering studies must receive specific Planning Board approval.
The Planning Board also •eercises control through its responsibility for capital budgeting,
carried out in coordination with the Bureau of the Budget.
Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA)
The Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority is a public corporation created in
1945. The main functions of the Authority are to provide adequate water supply and sani-
tary sewage service and to construct, operate, and maintain all of the aqueduct and sewer
systems in Puerto Rico. PRASA has the authority to raise funds for construction through
issuing bonds or other means (see Financial Plan). PRASA is also responsible
for establishing user charges and connection fees to help recover both operation and main-
tenance costs, and construction costs.
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For purposes of plan implementation, PRASA is responsible for conducting
engineering feasibility studies, preparing detailed plans and specifications, and cons-
tructing the facilities recommended in this plan. When their studies indicate the desire-
ability of changes, the justification must be presented to the EQB and EPA for approval.
PRASA is responsible, subject to EQB approval, for selecting the exact type of treatment
facility to be built, i.e., trickling filter, activated sludge, etc. These facilities must operate
within the effluent limitation set by EPA and EQB. PRASA is also responsible for site
selection (again subject to approval by EQB ,P8, and EPA) choice of materials, and other
matters relating to construction. The establishment and maintenance of an adequate time
schedule for engineering studies, design, and construction is the responsibility of PRASA
subject to constraints of funds availability, construction work load, and compliance with
all applicable requirements of other agencies.
Priorities and Phasing
The recommendations presented in this plan for new and expanded municipal
sewerage facilities call for a level of commitment in funding and construction much greater
than the total previous effort in Puerto Rico. It is clear that implementation of all the recom-
mendations will take many years. Two major constraints exist: (1) the considerable time
required to prepare engineering plans, detailed plans and specifications, and construction
for each facility, and (2) the limited funding available for this type of activity.
Because a large construction program is necessary, and there are many more projects
required that available funds will cover, it is essential that priorities be established to deter-
mine which projects will be funded first. In Chapter III, general priorities were given for the
facilities required within each region. In the same manner, priorities must be established
between regions.
Programs for sewerage facilities in Puerto Rico as developed in recent years have con-
centrated on providing the minimum level of treatment required to meet water quality stan-
dards and reduce public health hazards. Local social, economic and environmental priorities
dictate that this policy continue. Therefore, in developing priorities it is important to ensure
that the limited funds available are spent in the most cost-effective manner, on an islandwide
basis.
Every effort should be made to see that sewerage facilities do not exceed necessary
sizes and treatment levels. Money expended on facilities in excess of actual needs is not
put to its best use.
Specific islandwide priorities have not been developed as a part of this plan. PL 92-
500 and subsequent EPA regulations require the development by each state, Puerto Rico,
and U.S. territories of a Priority System and a Priority List to determine the order in which
municipal facility projects would receive funds. Current EPA regulations require that Puerto
Rico, in developing its Priority List "shall consider the severity of pollution problems, the
population affected, the need for preservation of high-quality waters, and national priorities
as well as total funds available, project and treatment works sequence and additional fac-
tories identified by the State in its priority system".
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The Environmental Quality Board is responsible for development of Puerto Rico's
Priority System and List. The first Priority System and List prepared by EQB became
effective in January, 1974. The reader is referred to the EQB for information regarding
current priorities.
Appendix G is a copy of the most recent Prority List prepared by EQB (October
1974 for FY 75). Such lists are periodically revised and updated.
FINANCIAL PLAN
Introduction and Summary
Public Law 92-500 provides for sharing the cost of building the facilities required
to implement the water quality management program. The Environmental Protection
Agency will provide Federal grants to cover three-quarters of the cost of approved projects,
with the balance of the funds to be raised by the local jurisdiction. The law establishes
a basic goal of making the nation's water safe for recreation and marine life by 1983.
The Comprehensive Water Quality Management Program for Puerto Rico is esti-
mated to cost $448 million. Assuming that federal funds will be available to support
the entire program, the federal share would be $336 million, and the share to be provided
by the Commonwealth would be $113 million. An analysis of resources available currently
and in the future indicates that Puerto Rico can provide the required level of matching
funds without difficulty within the period of ten years. Several sources have been inves-
tigated in terms of their potential for providing the necessary funds. Further study is
required to determine precisely the degree to which specific sources should be utilized.
The results of the investigation are summarized below; details are available in the appendix.
The following sources were examined:
Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority
Commonwealth General Fund
Connection Fees
Industrial Repayment
Municipal Contributions
Special Assessment Districts
PR ASA is an autonomous public corporation responsible for building and operating
water supply and sewer systems for the Commonwealth. Under ordinary circumstances,
the public utility that owns and operates a sewer system would be expected to raise the
funds for expansion and new construction. However, under long-standing Commonwealth
policy, PR ASA's resources are dedicated primarily to development of urban water supply
systems. Of the $83.5 million invested in sewer systems in Puerto Rico between 1951
and 1971, PRASA funds represent only 2 per cent, while Commonwealth appropriations
represent 44 per cent, municipal contributions represent 21 per cent, Federal grants account
for 20 per cent, and the balance came from private developers and industry. A rate adjust-
ment to enable PRASA to finance the entire cost of the sewage system would be of such
magnitude as to require a major Commonwealth policy decision. Without such a decision,
PRASA cannot be counted upon to provide funds for the local matching requirement.
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Commonwealth General Fund
Appropriations from the Commonwealth General Fund have provided almost
half of the investment in sewage systems built in the past twenty years. During the past
five years, such appropriations have averaged 6 per cent of the recommended General
Fund Capital Budget (GFCB). A relationship has been discerned between the GFCB
and the Commonwealth's Gross National Product (GNP) with the GFCB averaging about
2.25 per cent of GNP over the past decade. An economic projection by the Planning
Board indicates that GNP is expected to increase at a rate in excess of 10 per cent per
year for the foreseeable future. If the relationship between GNP and GFCB remains
valid, it will be feasible to generate in ten years the funds sufficient to match Federal
grants for the program. However, competition for funds to support other high priority
local programs make it advisable to reduce the dependence on the General Fund as
the primary source of money, and to examine other potential sources.
Connection Fees
One such source is a connection fee to be applied to treatment plant construc-
tion. PRASA does not collect such a fee on a systematic basis. A one-time fee to be
paid by all current and future subscribers to PRASA sewer services could generate suffi-
cient funds to meet the matching requirements. Based on current projections of popu-
lation and household size to 1980 (the basis for the design of the initial phase of most
regional systems), it is estimated that an island-wide flat fee would be about $210. An
alternative method for calculating the connection fee would be based on the construc-
tion costs within each of the sewer system basins. The island-wide fee appears to be more
equitable.
Industrial Repayment
The new Federal law requires industrial users to repay a portion of the Federal
grant for building the system from which they are receiving service. The local public
utility may retain one-half of the industrial repayment each year, for future expansion
and renovation of the plant. The Comprehensive. Water Quality Management Program
does not include detailed estimates of the industrial use of the various basin systems.
However, an analysis has been made of three systems for which PRASA has completed
preliminary engineering studies (Aguadilla, Arecibo, and Caguas). Industrial repayment
would be based on actual flows through each element of the collection and treatment
system, in proportion to the designed capacity, and would be spread over 20 years, as
permitted by Federal Law. For the existing industries in the three systems analyzed, and
under the construction staging described in the preliminary plans, it is estimated that
industrial repayment would begin in 1977, would increase gradually with the construc-
tion of additional stages of the systems, and would reach a level of $300,000 annually
for the Commonwealth by 1988, with a like amount to be turned over to the federal
government. When and if heavy industries connect to the public systems, it is likely
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that the level of industrial repayment would increase considerably. The requirement
of the law for elimination of all point sources of pollution provides an opportunity for
Puerto Rico's Industrial Development Administration to develop a special program for
industrial pre-treatment plants and other incentives for the concentration of industrial
establishments to reduce their payment costs.
Municipal Contributions
The municipalities of the San Juan metropolitan area have made substantial
contributions toward the construction of sewer facilities in the past. It is possible
that they may do so in the future. Most of the Commonwealth's local governments
do not have the financial resources for such contribution at the presenttime. The
eight largest municipios have a combined borrowing margin of 87 per cent of the total
borrowing capacity; the other 70 municipios share the remaining 13 per cent, as of June
1972. Since municipal bonds must be paid from the general revenues, it is manifestly
unfair to require all property owners to pay these cost. New revenue-sharing programs
of the Commonwealth and federal government may provide the municipalities with
funds for public improvements that be assigned to sewer system construction. However,
it does not appear feasible to require the municipalities to shoulder the burden of providing
the matching funds for sewer construction directly.
Special Assessment Districts
Puerto Rican law provides for special assessment districts to be created by munici-
pal governments to pay for specific public improvements serving a limited geographic
area. The full cost of such improvements must be paid by the property owner in propor-
tion to the assessed value of their property. The Planning Board is also authorized to esta-
blish special districts for the purpose of implementing elements of its master plans. This
provision seems to provide for considerable flexibility, and could be used for the water
quality management program to permit a sharing of costs among the federal and local
interests. The connection fees decribed above, for instance, could be paid through a
special district arrangement over a period of ten years, to reduce the burden on the
individual taxpayer, or subscriber. Municipal bonds could be issued to cover the amount
of the local connection fees, to provide PRASA with working capital, and the bonds
could be based on the property value in a special district, to be served by the sewer
system.
Recommendations
Although the Commonwealth General Fund is capable of providing sufficient
funds to meet the matching requirements, it is feasible to substitute other sources, espe-
cially at the beginning of the program. Connection fees and special districts appear to
be a feasible means of tapping the credit of the municipalities. Industrial repayments
will build up a construction fund in the future. Further analysis of these sources is
necessary.
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Pian Revision
After final approval, this report will serve as the official Water Pollution
Control Plan for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. It will guide development of
wastewater collection, treatment and disposal facilities to be constructed by PRASA,
and will provide the basis for distribution of federal construction funds to Puerto
Rico.
The recommendations presented in this report are based on the best infor-
mation available at the time of plan preparation. Specific recommendations per-
taining to facilities construction will be followed by engineering feasibility studies
and the formulation of detailed plans and specifications. Although the genera! recom-
mendations and policies in this document should be adhered to, modifications with
respect to any specific recommendations will be considered if circumstances merit,
and sufficient justification is provided to the EQB.
Early in 1973, the EQB adopted a Continuing Planning Process that outlines
water, quality planning activities for the next several years. This Continuing Planning
Process requires the preparation of water quality management plans for each of the
thirteen regions identified in this report. All thirteen of these plans must be completed
by June 30, 1975.
As each of these plans is completed, it then becomes the official Water Pollution
Control Plan for that particular region.
The plans required by the Continuing Planning Process will be similar to this
present Water Quality Management Plan, but will possess greater detail and varying
emphasis. The initial set of thirteen water quality management plans will constitute
five-year implementation plans with primary emphasis on ensuring that water quality
standards will be met after implementation of recommended treatment measures. Future
plans will place greater emphasis on the identification and control of non-point sources
of pollution.
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APPENDIX A: WATER QUALITY STANDARDS
-------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ARTICLE 1. Definitions 2
2. Water Quality Standards and Use Classifications
for the Waters of Puerto Rico 5
3 2.1 General Water Quality Standards 5
2.2 Use Classifications 8
3. Classifications of the Waters of Puerto Rico according to
their intended use 15
3.1 Coastal Waters 15
3.2 Surface Waters 16
4. General Provisions 18
4.1 Generic prohibitions 18
4.2 Source monitoring, record keeping, reporting,
sampling and testing methods 18
4.3 Discharge data available to public; presentation 19
4.4 Malfunction of equipment, reporting 19
4.5 Emergency plan 20
4.6 Water pollution control equipment 20
4.7 Anti-degradation statement 21
4.8 Required degree of treatment
5. Mixing Zones 22
5.1 Criteria 22
5.2 Definition of boundaries 22
6. Penalties 24
7. Additional provisions 25
7.1 Public Nuisance 25
7.2 Overlapping or contradictory provisions 25
7.3 Derogation 25
7.4 Separability Clause 25
7.5 Effectiveness 25
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DECLARATION OF GOALS AND PURPOSES
The Environmental Quality Board recognizes that water pollution is detrimental
to public health and welfare, creates public nuisances, is harmful to wildlife, fish and
other aquatic life, and impairs domestic, agricultural, industrial, recreational and
other beneficial uses of water.
It is the goal of this Board, and these Regulations, to preserve, maintain and
enhance the quality of the waters of Puerto Rico compatible with the social and
economic needs of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
It is the purpose of these Regulations to: Prescribe the water quality standards
required to sustain the designated uses, designate the uses for which the various
waters of Puerto Rico shall be maintained and protected, provide for establishment
of effluent quality criteria to limit the contaminants that are discharged into the
waters, and prescribe additional measures necessary for implementing, achieving and
maintaining the prescribed water quality.
These Regulations are enacted in accordance with Law No. 9 approved on June
18, 1970, known as the Public Policy Environmental Act, and nullify any previous
provision, resolution, agreement or regulation of the same subject which may contra-
dict these Regulations.
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ARTICLE 1 DEFINITIONS
Applicable rules and regulations See section 2.1.2.
Biota - All living organisms within a region.
Board - The Environmental Quality Board of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as
created pursuant to Law No. 9 of June 18,1970.
Coastal waters Ocean waters within the jurisdiction of the United States and Puerto
Rico, as established by Article 8 of the Puerto Rico Federal Relations Act of 1917,
as amended, and all inland waters which are subject to the ebb and flow of the tides.
Collform group (Total Coliform) - All of the aerobic and ' tcultative anaerobic gram
negative, non spore-forming rod-shaped bacteria that ferment lactose broth with gas
formation within 48 hours at 35°C ! o.5°C.
Colloidal substances Minute substances including, but not limited to, clay or other
substances which do not settle out without the use of a flocculant.
Communities-Populations dominated by one species or a specific group of orga-
nisms. The community derives its name from that of the dominant organism (s),
such as coral reefs, and including mangroves and limestone beds.
Discontinuity - That zone or transition stratum thatseparates the hypqltmnion irom
the epilimnion.
Desirable species - Species indigenous to the area.
Discharge (to). Discharge - The outflow of wastewater from any domestic, commer-
cial, industrial, agricultural or any other source into receiving waters.
Dissolved oxygen - The concentration of free oxygen in the water.
Domestic wastes - Any liquid, gaseous, or solid waste or a combination of all, from
homes or buildings, generated as a result of satisfying the basic human and animate
needs.
£ffluent - See Discharge.
Emergency plan - The corrective procedure to be followed in the caseofoflor toxic
substances spills, or in the case of damage caused by natural phenomena.
Emergency plan for Puerto Rico Any plan, rule or regulation adopted by the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico for preventing, containing and countering spilts of
oil or tox ic substances in the waters of Puerto Rico.
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Epilimnion That region of water that extends from the surface to the thermocline.
Estuary That part of the mouth or lower course of a river in which the fresh water
meets the sea water and where the ebb and flow of the tides is felt, constituting an
inlet part ocean and part river.
Fecal coliform - The portion of the coliform group which is present in the gut or the
feces of warm-blooded animals. It generally includes organisms which are capable of
producing gas from lactose broth in a suitable culture medium within 24 hours at
44.5°C±0.2°C.
FWPCAA - The Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972
Hypolimnion - That region of a body of water that extends from the thermocline to
the bottom of the body of water and is removed from surface influence.
Industrial wastes - Any liquid, gaseous, or solid waste, or a combination thereof,
resulting from any industrial, manufacturing, or commercial process.
Mixing zones - Areas in a body of water where the effluent is diluted with the
receiving waters.
Municipal wastes - Water carrying human and animal wastes from homes, buildings,
industrial establishments and other places alone or in combination with industrial
wastes.
Other wastes - Garbage, residues, rotten wood, sawdust, filling, lime, ashes, offals, oil
dyes, acids, chemical substances, and any other substance that may pollute or cause
pollution of waters.
Passageway - A continuous stretch where water characteristics are affected only by
the environment in such a manner that the free flow or continous drifting of biota is
always possible.
Person - Any juridical or natural person; any agency, department, board, public or
quasi-public corporation, municipality of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico or its
municipalities; any association or group of persons.
Point source - Any discernible, confined and discrete conveyance, including but not
limited to any pipe, ditch, channel, tunnel, conduit, well, discrete fissure, container,
rolling stock, concentrated animal feeding operation, or vessel or other floating
craft, from which pollutants are or may be discharged.
Pollutant - Any substance, refuse or waste capable of polluting the waters.
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Pollute (to), Pollution Altering the natural characteristics of a body of water so as
to make it in any way harmful or noxious to human health, or to that of animals, or
plants, or rendering it ill-smelling or impure or altering adversely its physical, chemi
Ceil, microbiological or radioactive condition, in such a way as to interfere with the
enjoyment of life or property or violate the standards of purity established by this
Regulation.
Primary contact - Any recreational or other use in which there is prolonged and
intimate contact with the water involving considerable risk of ingestion in quantities
sufficient to pose a significant health hazard.
Refuse - All waste material, including (but not limited to) garbage, rubbish, incinera-
tor residue, street sweepings, dead animals, and animal wastes.
Secondary contact - Any recreational or other use in which contact with the water is
either incidental or accidental and in which the probability of ingesting appreciable
quantities of water is minimal.
Sewage - See municipal wastes.
Solid wastes All refuse including, but not limited to, garbage, rubbish, incinerator
residue, street sweepings, dead animals, and animal wastes.
Source - Any discharge from a property, real or personal, which generates or may
generate any water pollutant.
Surface waters - Any natural or artificial water source including all streams, lakes,
ponds, impounding reservoirs, inland watercourses and waterways, springs, irrigation
systems, drainage systems and all other inland water bodies or accumulated waters.
For the purpose of this Regulation the term does not include coastal waters or those
subject to the ebb and flow of tides.
Thermocline That layer in a body of water where the temperature difference is
greatest per unit depth. It is the layer in which the temperature gradient equals or
exceeds 1 °C per meter.
Water pollutant - See Pollutant.
Water pollution control facilities or equipment - Any process, equipment, device,
and all appurtenances thereto, used for eliminating, reducing, or controlling the dis-
charge of any water pollutant.
Water Quality Standards • The designated water body uses or classifications, the cri-
teria to protect those uses, and the antidegradation statement.
Waters, Waters of Puerto Rico - Coastal or surface waters of Puerto Rico.
Wastewater - See Municipal wastes.
Wastewater treatment facilities - See Water pollution control equipment or facilities.
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ARTICLE 2 WATER QUALITY STANDARDS AND USE CLASSIFICATIONS
FOR THE WATERS OF PUERTO RICO
Pursuant to the intent of these Regulations, the following water quality
standards are promulgated for the coastal and surface waters of the Commonwealth
of Puerto Rico.
The following water quality standards shall apply at all times, except for sur-
face waters during periods when their flows are less than the average minimum
seven-day low flow which occurs once in any ten years.
2.1 General water quality standards
All waters shall meet generally accepted aesthetic qualifications and shall be
capable of supporting diversified aquatic life. These waters shall, except as
specifically noted, meet the following quality standards:
2.1.1 Solids and other matter
The waters of Puerto Rico shall not contain materials attributable to dis-
charges that will settle to form objectionable deposits. Nor will they contain
floating debris, scum, oil and other floating materials attributable to dis-
charges in amounts sufficient to be unsightly or deleterious,
2.1.2 Color, odor, taste or turbidity
The waters of Puerto Rico shalt be free from color, odor, taste or turbidity
attributable to discharges in such a degree as to create a nuisance.
2.1.3 Substances in toxic concentration or combinations thereof
The waters of Puerto Rico shall not contain substances in concentrations or
combinations which are toxic or which produce undesirable physiological
responses in human, fish or other animal life, and plants,
A. Specific standards for some substances:
i) Coastal waters
The maximum allowable concentrations of certain substances
in the receiving coastal waters shall be the following:
Substance Limit (mg/1)
Arsenic (As) 0.015
Barium (Ba) 1.0
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4.8
0.0002
28.0
0.05
0.05
0.01
0.5
0.001
1.3
0.05
0.05
0.001
5.0
0.0005
0.005
0.01
2,700.0
5.0
0.1
ii) Surface waters
Maximum allowable concentrations of certain substances in
the receiving fresh waters shall be the following:
Substance Limit (mg/1)
Arsenic (As) 0.05
Barium (Ba) 1.0
Boron (B) 1.0
Cadmium (Cd) 0.01
Carbon (Chloroform extract) 0.15
Chlorides (CI) 250.0
Chromium (hexavalent) 0.05
Copper (Cu) 1.00
Cyanide (CN) 0.20
Detergents (Methylene Blue
Active Substances, Alkyl
Benzene Sulfonate (ABS) 0.5
Lead (Pb) 0.05
Mercury (Hg) absent
Nitrate plus nitrite (as N) 10.0
Phenols 0.001
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Boron (B)
Cadmium (Cd)
Carbon (Chloroform extract)
Chromium (hexavalent) (Cr)
Copper (Cu)
Cyanide (CN)
Detergents (Methylene Blue
Active Substances, Alkyl
Benzene Sulfonate (ABS)
Phenols
Fluorides (F)
Iron (Fe)
Manganese (Mn)
Mercury (Hg)
Nitrogen (NO3, NO2, NH3)-
Silver (Ag)
Lead (Pb)
Selenium (Se)
Sulfate (SO4)
Uranil (UO2)
Zinc (Zn)
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Setenium (Se} 0.01
Silver (Ag) 0.05
Sulfate (SO4) 250.0
Uranrt ^\J02\ 5.0
Zinc (Zn) 5.0
Specific standards for pesticides:
1) Organoch(oride and organophosphate pesticides
The concentration of organochlorides and organophosphates
in the waters of Puerto Rico shall not exceed 0.00005 milli-
grams per liter (0.05 ppb). Some typical organochloride and
organophosphate pesticides are:
Organochlorides
Aldrin
BHC
Chlordane
Endrin
Heptachlor
Lindane
Toxaphene
Organophosphates
Coumaphos
Dursban
Fenthion
2) Other pesticides
The concentration of pesticide compounds such as arsenicals,
botanicals, carbamates, 2, 4-D compounds, 2, 4, 5-T com-
pounds, phthalic acid compounds, triszine compounds and
substituted urea compounds shall not exceed 0.01 milligrams
per liter.
Standards for combinations of toxic materials:
When two or more potentially toxic materials are present at the same
time, the permissible concentrations of individual materials as speci-
fied in (A) and (B) above shall be reduced. To assure that these mix-
DDT
Dieldrin
Endosulfan
Methoxychlor
Perthane
TDE
Naleci
Parathion
Ronnel
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tures do not reach toxic levels the following relationship shall be
used to determine allowable concentrations of each material;
— +¦ • • • + Cn < 1
La Ln
Where Ca, Cb,. .Cn are the measured concentrations of each mate-
rial,and La, Lb, . .Ln are the respective allowable concentrations
for the materials on an individual basis, as specified in (A) and (B)
above.
2.1.4 Radioactive materials
The concentration of Radium-226 and Strontium-90 shall not exceed 3 and
10 picocuries per liter, respectively. In the absence of Strontium-90 and
alpha emitters the gross beta concentrations shall not exceed 1,000 picocu
ries per liter.
2.1.5 Temperature
A. No heat may be added to the waters of Puerto Rico which would
cause the monthly arithmetic mean of the maximum daily tempera-
ture at any site, prior to the addition of any heat, to be exceeded by
more than 1.5°F, or which would cause the temperature at any site
to exceed 94°F.
B. No discharge or combination of discharges into the waters of Puerto
Rico shall be injurious to fish or shellfish or the culture or propaga-
tion of a balanced indigenous population thereof (nor in any way
affect desired use).
C. Thermal discharges shall be confined to the epilimnetic layer of
stratified lakes.
D. The rate of temperature change shall not be more than 1 °F per hour
and shall not exceed a total of 5°F in any 24 hour period except
when due to natural causes.
2.1.6 Suspended, colloidal or settleable solids
Solids from wastewater sources shall not cause deposition in, or be delete-
rious to, the designated uses of the waters.
2.2 Use classifications
2.2.1 Class SA
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A. Usages and/or description:
Coastal waters whose existing characteristics should not be altered in
order to preserve the existing natural phenomena. Toward that end
these waters are not intended to be used for any activity, such as
swimming, boating and skiing, that might be detrimental to the
existing natural phenomena.
B. Standards:
1) Dissolved oxygen
Shall contain not less than 5 milligrams per liter (mg/1)
except when due to natural causes.
2) Conforms
The fecal coliform geometric average of a series of representa-
tive samples (at least five samples) of the waters taken over a
period of a month shall not exceed 70 colonies per 100 milli-
liters (70/100 ml), and not more than 20 percent of the
samples shall exceed 200 colonies/100 ml.
3) pH
Shall always lie between 7.3 and 8.5 except when natural
causes alter such limits.
4) Color
Shall not be altered except by natural causes.
5) Turbidity
Shall not be altered except by natural causes. A Secchi disc
shall be visible at a minimum depth of 1 meter.
6) Total Dissolved Solids
Shall not be altered except by natural causes.
7) Chlorides
(Not applicable.)
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8)
Taste and odor-producing substances
Shall contain none in amounts that will interfere with the
preservation or enjoyment of existing natural phenomena.
9) Nutrients
Shall not be altered except by natural causes. Phosphorus as
total P shall not exceed 25 ppb.
2.2.2 Class SB
A. Usages and/or description:
Coastal waters intended for uses where the human body may come in
direct contact with the water (such as complete body submergence);
and for use in propagation and preservation of desirable species.
B. Standards:
1) Dissolved oxygen
Shall contain not less that 5 mg/1 except when natural
phenomena cause this value to be depressed.
2) Coliforms
i. The fecal coliform monthly geometric average of a
series of representative samples (at least five samples)
of the waters taken over a period of a month shall not
exceed 200 colonies/100 ml, and not more than 20
percent of the samples exceed 400 colonies/100 ml.
ii. In shellfish-growing areas the total coliform monthly
geometric average of a series of representative samples
(at least five samples) of the waters taken over a
period of a month shall not exceed 70 colonies/100
ml, and not more than 20 percent of the samples
exceed 230 colonies/100ml.
3) pH
Shall always lie between 7.3 and 8.5 except when natural
phenomena cause the value of the pH to fall outside this
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range. No materials that extend normal ranges of pH at any
location by more than 0.1 pH should be introduced into salt
water portions of tidal tributaries or coastal waters. At no
time should the introduction of foreign materials cause the
pH to be less than 7.3 nor greater than 8.5.
4) Color
Shall not be altered by other than natural phenomena except
when it can be proven that such change in color is harmless
to biota and aesthetically acceptable.
5) Turbidity
A Secchi disc shall be visible at a minimum depth of 1 meter.
6} Total dissolved solids
(Not applicable.)
7) Chlorides
(Mot applicable.)
8) Taste and odor-producing substances
Shall contain none in amounts that will interfere with use for
primary contact recreation or will render any undesirable
taste or odor to aquatic life.
9) Nutrients
(Note: The maximum allowable limits of phosphorus and
other nutrients shall be estabfished by the Board as soon as
adequate technical information about their concentrations in
the waters of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico becomes
available).
2.2.3 Class SC
A. Usages and/or description:
Coastal waters intended for uses where the human body may come in
indirect contact with the water (such as fishing, boating, etc.), and
for use in propagation and maintenance of desirable species.
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B. Standards:
1) Dissolved oxygen
Shall contain not less than 4 mg/1 except when natural con
ditions cause this value to be depressed.
2) Coliforms
The coliform geometric average of
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8)
Taste and odor producing substances
Shall contain none in amounts that will render any undesir
able taste or odor to edible aquatic life
9) Nutrients
(Note: The maximum allowable limits of phosphorus and
other nutrients shall be established by the Board as soon as
adequate technical information about their concentrations in
the waters of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico becomes
available).
2.2A Class SD
A. Usages and/or description:
Surface waters intended for use as a raw water source for public
water supply, and in propagation and preservation of desirable
species. These waters can not be safely used for primary or secondary
contact recreation, unless they comply with Section 2.2.4 B. 10.
B. Standards:
1) Dissolved oxygen
Shall contain not less that 5.0 mg/1 except during not more
than 4 hours within any 24 hour period when it can contain
no less than 4.0 mg/1, except when natural conditions cause
this value to be depressed.
2) Coliforms
The coliform geometric average of a series of representative
samples (at least five samples) of the waters taken over a
period of a month shall not exceed 10,000 colonies/100 ml
total coliform or 2,000 colonies/100 ml fecal coliform. Not
more than 20 percent of the samples shall exceed 4,000 colo-
nies/100 ml of fecal coliform.
3) pH
Shall always lie between 6.0 and 9.0 except when natural
phenomena cause the value of the pH to fall outside this
range.
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4) Color
Shall not exceed 10 units according to the colorimetric plati-
num-cobalt standard.
5) Turbidity
Shalt not exceed 50 Jackson turbidity units (JTU) except
when due to natural phenomena.
6) Total dissolved solids
Shall not exceed 500 mg/1.
7) Chlorides
The monthly arithmetic average shall not exceed 50 mg/1.
8) Taste and odor-producing substances
None in amounts that wilt interfere with the use for potable
water supply, or will render any undesirable taste or odor to
edible aquatic life.
9) Nutrients
Phosphorus as P shall not exceed 50 ppb in any stream nor
exceed 25 ppb in any reservoir or lake, or at any point where
the stream enters these receiving waters.
10) Other pathogenic organisms
These waters shall be free, as certified by the Secretary of
Health of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, from Infective
forms of Schistosoma mansoni.
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ARTICLE 3 CLASSIFICATION OF THE V'ATERS OF PUERTO RICO
ACCORDING TO THEIR INTENDED USE
3.1 Coastal waters
3.1.1 Class SA
Shalt include bioluminiscent lakes and bays such as La Parguera and Monsio
Jos6 on the Southern Coast, Bah fa de Mosquito in Vieques, and those special
areas which may be designated by the Board.
Article 2.2.1 B will apply to the waters 500 meters seaward of the physical
and geographical limits of the bodies of water under this classification.
3.1.2 OassSB
This classification will apply from the zone subiect to the ebb and flow of
tides (mean sea level! until 500 meters seaward from the said zone. Beyond
this limit, the next less restrictive classification will apply to a maximum of
three (3) miles.
1. From Bah fa Parguera to Punta Guanajibo in Mayaguez.
2. From Punta Algarrobo in Mayaguez to Punta Boquer6n in Aguadilla
3. From Punta Borinquen in Aguadilla to Punta Maracayo in Arecibo.
4. From Punta Caracoles in Arecibo to Punta Salinas in Calano.
5. From San Juan (Punta del Morro) to Playa Sardinera in Fajardo.
6. From Playa de Fajardo to Punta Cabra de Tierra in Ceiba.
7. From Punta Cascajo in Ceiba to Playa de Naguabo.
8. From El Morrillo to Punta Icacos in Yabucoa.
9. From Punta Yeguas in Yabucoa to Punta Rodeo in Aguirre.
10. From Punta Colchones in Salinas to Punta Carenero in Ponce.
11. From Punta Cuchara in Ponce to Cayo Parguera in Guayanilla.
12. From Punta Verraco in Guayanilla to Bahia de Gu^inica.'
13. From Bahia de GuSnica to Bahi'a Parguera in Lajas.
14. Ista de Culebra except the port of Dewey.
15. From Punta Muloseastto Bahi'a Mosquito in Vieques.
16. From Bahfa Mosquito to Cayo de Tierra in Vieques.
17. From Cayo Real west to Puerto Isabel Segunda.
18 Isla Nlonito.
19. Isla Desecheo.
20. Isla de la Mona.
21. Isla Caja de Muertos.
22. Cayo Icacos.
23. Cayos de Cafia Gorda, GuSnica.
24. All lagoons not classified under any other class in these Regulations
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\ 1.2.1 Shellfish growth areas
Those areas that are designated by the Board as "Shellfish growth areas
The existing water quality regulations established by both the U.S. Publu
Health Service and the Department of Health ot the Commonwealth ot
Puerto Rico shall be applied to this classification. This classification will be
applied 100 meters beyond the physical and geographical areas limiting the
shellfish growth areas.
3.1.3 Class SC
The classification of these areas shall be applied from the zone subject to the
ebb and flow of tides (mean sea level) to three (3) nautical miles (5,559
meters) seaward.
1. Mayaguez Bay • from Punta Guanajibo to Punta Algarrobo.
2. Aguadilla Bay - from Punta Boquer6n to Punta Borinquen.
3. Arecibo Bay from Punta Maracayo to Punta Caracoles.
4. San Juan Bay including Laguna San Jos6 from Punta Salinas to
Punta del Morro.
5. Fajardo Bay - from Playa Sardinera to Playa de Fajardo
6. Roosevelt Roads - from Punta Cabra de Tierra to Punta Cascajo.
7. Port of Naguabo - from Playa de Naguabo to El Morrillo.
8. Port of Yabucoa - from Punta Icacos to Punta Yeguas.
9. Jobos Bay and Laguna de las Mareas - from Punta Rodeo to Punta
Colchones.
10. Guayanilla and Tallaboa Bays - from Cayo Parguera to Punta Ve-
rraco.
11. Port of Ponce from Punta Carenero to Punta Cuchara.
12. Gu£nica Bay inland waters north of the mouth.
13. Port of Dewey in Culebra.
14. Port of Isabel Segunda in Vieques.
15. Puerto Real in Vieques - between Cayo de Tierra and Cayo Real.
3.2 Surface waters
3.2.1 Class SD
All surface waters, including Laguna Tortuguero, are classified SD
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N
^ STREAMS AND ARTIFICIAL LAKES, CLASS *SOa
10 0 10
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ARTICLE 4 - General Provisions
4.1 Generic prohibitions
4 1.1 No person shall cause or permit the pollution of the waters of Puerto Rico,
as defined in Article 1 of this Regulation.
4.1.2 No person shall cause or permit the discharge of any water pollutant in viola-
tion of applicable rules and regulations:
A. Such rules and regulations include:
1. Water quality standards and all other requirements esta-
blished by this Regulation or by other laws or regulations of
the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.
2. Effluent limitations established pursuant to section 402 of
the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of
1972.
B. Moreover, such rules and regulations shall be deemed to prohibit any
discharge that, in the judgement of the Board, prevents or interferes
with attainment or maintenance of applicable water quality stan-
dards established by this Regulation, by other laws or regulations of
the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or by any other requirements
established by the United States Government pursuant to the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972 or any applicable
legislation.
4.2 Source monitoring, record keeping, reporting, sampling and testing methods.
4.2.1 The Board may require the owner of any source at his expense to use and
maintain such monitoring equipment, sample and measure the volume of dis-
charges, sample the receiving waters, establish and maintain records, and
make periodic reports as the Board shall prescribe.
4.2.2 Representatives of the Board, properly identified:
A Shall have right of entry to, upon, or through any premises in which
a source is located or in which any records required to be maintained
under these Regulations are located.
B. Shall have access to, inspect and copy any records required under
these Regulations, inspect any monitoring equipment method to
determine its accuracy, and sample any discharge or receiving waters
which the owner is required to sample under these Regulations.
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4.2.3 All sample collection, preservation, and analysis shall be carried
or of an equally responsible officer in the case of organizations othe' f
corporations.
Such sworn statement or affidavit can be signed by an officer previously
authorized in writing by the responsible officer named above, and shall, in all
cases, attest to the truth, correctness, and completeness of such records and
reports.
4.2.f> The Board may conduct tests of discharges of water pollutants from any
source. Upon request of the Board, the person responsible for the source to
be tested shall provide such safe and proper sampling and testing facilities
(but not including instruments and testing devices except when required
pursuant to other provisions of these Regulations) as may be necessary for
proper characterization of the discharge.
4.3 Discharge data available to public; presentation.
4.3.1 All discharge data obtained by the Board, including data reported pursuant
to section 4.2, shall be made available for public inspection and shall also be
made available to the public in any additional way that the Board may
deem appropriate.
4.3 I All such discharge data shall be presented in such a manner as to show the
relationship between measured or estimated discharges and the discharges
allowable under applicable rules and regulations.
4.4 Malfunction of equipment; reporting.
4.4.1 In the event that any source, water pollution control equipment, or related
facility breaks down in such a manner as to cause the discharge of pollutants
in violation of applicable rules and regulations, the person responsible for
such equipment shall immediately notify the Board of such failure or break
down and provide a statement giving all pertinent facts, including the esti-
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mated duration of the breakdown. The Board shall be notified when the con-
dition causing the failure or breakdown has been corrected and the equip-
ment is again in operation. Upon request by the Board, this notification shall
be followed by a written report of the incident. This report shall include
specific data concerning the affected equipment, date and hour of the occur-
rence, causes of the malfunction, and corrective measures taken.
4.5 Emergency Plan
4.5.1 The Board may require the owner of any source to provide or contract the
services for equipment and materials necessary for controlling spills of oil or
toxic substances. The Board may also require of any source to take all neces-
sary measures to control nontoxic spills that may cause a disagreeable taste
or odor to the waters. The source must have an emergency plan for prompt
action in case of spills. Said plan must be coordinated with the Emergency
Plan for Puerto Rico.
4.6 Water Pollution control equipment
4.6.1 General
A. All water pollution control equipment shall be installed, maintained
and operated in such a manner as to allow compliance with appli-
cable rules and regulations.
B. All pollutants removed from the wastewater shall be disposed of at
the intervals required for maintaining optimum operational efficien-
cy. The disposal of the removed pollutants shall be in accordance
with applicable rules and regulations and in such a manner as to pre-
vent environmental degradation.
C. Where required by the Board, and particularly for those sources
where pollution would result in immediate danger to Kuman health
or life, stand-by equipment shall be provided to insure continous
operation.
4.6.2 Operation
Two years following the date of effectiveness of these Regulations, all waste-
water facilities, whether publicly or privately operated, must be under the
supervision of an operator whose competency has been certified under the
certification system to be established for this purpose by the Board.
The certification system shall include the following provisions:
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A Criteria for the qualification of applicants for operator certtfu at
B. Procedures for the examination of candidates and their certification
and for the renewal of certificates.
C. Procedures for the revocation of certificates.
4.7 Anti-degradation statement
Waters, whose existing quality as of the effective date of these Regulations,
is better than the standards established herein will be maintained at such
quality. These and other waters of the Commonwealth will not be lowered in
quality unless it has been affirmatively demonstrated to the Board that such
a change is justified as a result of necessary economic or social development
and will not interfere or become injurious to any assigned uses made of, or
presently possible in, such waters. This will require that any industrial,
public or private project, or development which would constitute a new
source of pollution, or a modified source of pollution, to a high quality
water body, possess as a part of the initial project design the best practicable
control technology currently available. This decision of the Board shall be
preceeded by adequate public notice.
4.8 Required degree of treatment
The minimum treatment required for any wastewater must be such thafdis-
charges shall meet effluent limits as established under these Regulations and
under section 402 of the FWPCAA and shall not cause the water quality
standards, as set forth in Articles 2 and 3, to be contravened.
&22
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ARTICLE 5 - MIXING ZONES
5.1 When deemed absolutely necessary, the Board may allow a mixing zone with
respect to a discharge. The Board shall evaluate and decide the need, loca-
tion, size and depth of the mixing zone in accordance with the following
criteria and any other applicable section of these Regulations:
A. A mixing zone will be allowed only if the source demonstrates to the
satisfaction of the Board that the best practicable control technology
economically feasible is being used or proposed.
B. These zones shall be provided solely for mixing. Mixing must be
accomplished as quickly as possible through the use of means which
insure that the waste is mixed with the dilution water in the smallest
possible area.
C. At the boundary of the mixing zone the water should comply with
all the quality standards set forth for its classification.
D. No conditions shall be permitted to exist within the mixing zone,
that are rapidly lethal (i.e. exceed the 96 hour median tolerance
limit) to desirable species.
E. Suspended solids shall not settle in measurable amounts in the
mixing zones as a result of the discharge
F. Nuisance growths of organisms shall not result in the mixing zone as
a result of the discharge.
G. Maximum vertical dispersion of wastewater discharge flow shall be
provided for in the mixing zone
5.2 Definition of boundaries
A. The mixing zone must be located in such manner as to allow, at all
times, passageways for the movement or drift of the biota.
B. In closed bodies of water, estuaries or rivers, all mixing zones shall be
located close to the bank itself, in such manner that the passageway
continues lengthwise for a considerable distance which permits the
adequate and safe flow of free floating or drifting organisms.
C. The width of the mixing zone and the volume of flow in it shall
depend on and will be determined by the nature of the body of
water.
A-23
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D. The area, depth, and volume of the mixing zone must not interfere
with a usable passageway for fish and other desirable aquatic orga
nisms.
E. The passageway must contain at least 75 percent of the cross-sectio-
nal area and/or volume of flow of the estuary
F. The size and shape of the mixing zone shall be determined indivi-
dually by the Board according to the location, size, nature and classi-
fication of the receiving waters. In no case the mixing zone will be
larger than 4,000 feet in diameter.
G. A mixing zone shall not overlap with an adjacent mixing zone.
H. Unless specific conditions, such as spawning grounds, migratory
routes, or other special conditions are applicable, the mixing zone for
rivers and estuaries should be defined as a sphere with a specified
point as the center ( not necessarily the outfall but limited to one
point for each source) and a diameter (d) expressed in feet, equal to
the square root of the volume of discharge (A>, in million of gallons
per day multiplied by 200. The diameter of the mixing zone shall in
no case exceed 4000 feet. The diameter could be obtained using the
following formula:
d.- 200 X (A)1 n
A-24
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ARTICLE 6-PENALTIES
Any violation of these Regulations will constitute a misdemeanor, and will be sub-
ject to the penalties established by the Public Policy Environmental Act as amen-
ded. Moreover, the Board may, in case of infraction of any of the applicable rules
and regulations, suspend, amend, or revoke any relevant certification, approval, or
other authorization issued under these Regulations.
A-25
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ARTICLE 7 ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS
7.1 Public nuisance
A. Nothing in these Regulations shall be construed to authorize or lega
fize the creation or maintenance of a public nuisance as defined in
Article 329 of the Penal Code of Puerto Rico.
B. This section shall not be understood as a limit or restriction of the
other prohibitions established in other parts of this Regulation.
7.2 Overlapping or contradictory provisions
If a requirement established by any provision of these Regulations is either
more restrictive or less restrictive-than a requirement established by any
other provision of these Regulations or by any other law, regulation, stan-
dard, or limit established by any duly constituted governmental authority
having jurisdiction, the requirement which is more restrictive shall govern.
7.3 Derogation
These Regulations nullify any previous provision, resolution, agreement, or
regulation of the same subject which may contradict these Regulations,
Moreover, these Regulations nullify in their entirety Sanitary Regulations
Nos. 127, 128, 129 and 131 of the Department of Health.
7.4 Separability clause
If any provision of these Regulations is declared illegal or unconstitutional
by sentence of a court, such declaration or sentence will not affect the other
provisions of these Regulations, each one being considered as separate.
7.5 Effectiveness
These Regulations shall go into effect thirty (30) days after the date of its
filing at the Department of State, in conformity with Law 112 of June 30,
1957, as amended.
A-26
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PAGE NOT
AVAILABLE
DIGITALLY
-------
SOURCES:
1. Kipple, F.P., and others; 1968, Water Records of Puerto Rico, 1958 63:
U. S. Geological Survey Open-file Report, 353p.
2. Rickher, J.G., and others, 1970a, Water Resources of Puerto Rico, 1964-67,
V, 1, North and Northeast Slopes: Puerto Rico Data Report, 269p.
3. , 1970b, Water Records of Puerto Rico, 1964-67,
V. 2, South and West Slopes: Puerto Rico Data Report, 308 p.
4. L6pez, M.A., and E. Col6n-Dieppa, 1973, Low Floyv Frequency and Magnitude in
Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico Data Release PR-8, 97 p.
* Cubic feet per second per square mile of drainage area.
C 10
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APPENDIX B:
Design Criteria and
Cost Estimates
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APPENDIX B: DESIGN CRITERIA AND COST ESTIMATES
Sewage Treatment Plants
Cost estimation processes for sewage treatment plants were based on a complex
of factors. Thus included, among others -design, construction, and land acquisition
assuming differential in land cost based on geographical location of plants and disposal
points.
Plant design was based fundamentally on wastewater flows including domestic
and industrial flows and infiltration. The design process was based on flow projections
for either 1990 or 15 years in advance, whichever was applicable. Design also involved
a choice of process. The activated sludge secondary treatment process was generally
used for cost estimating, because of superior BOD removal characteristic's (90-95 per-
cent as opposed to 80-85 percent for trickling filtration) and because of smaller land
requirements for sludge plants than for trickling filters. When an existing plant under
consideration was a trickling filter built after 1960, expansion of the plant was consi-
dered in terms of augmenting the existing equipment. Costs were estimated according
to PRASA's Planning Division charts for trickling filter construction, operation and
maintenance (See chart, fig. B-2, p. B-5).
Cost estimation figure used by PRASA's Planning Division were updated to 1972
for Puerto Rico, and included the cost of construction of a pumping station at the plant
site, and the plant's power and water supply^. The cost of expanding existing facilities
was considered to be equal to that of new construction.
Land requirements for construction of new plants were determined as a function
of average daily plant capacity. Statistics used in these calculations were derived from
a study published in 1972^. On a per cuerda basis ( 1 cuerda - 0.971 acre), the follow-
ing costs were applied to different locations in the island:
Metropolitan areas (including large towns) $ 15,000
Developed land ... 9,200
South Coast 5,000
Center of island 2,000
Increases of 20 percent for contingency costs and a 10 percent allowance for
engineering, supervision, legal and administrative costs were applied to all sewer plant's
and work's acquisition and construction costs. The 20 percent figure included power,
water supply, and access roads for the facilities, plus overhead and other construction
expenses. These figures were obtained from the local Black and Veatch Consulting
Engineers' office on the basis of long term construction experience in Puerto Rico.
B-1
-------
Cost estimations of discharge lines were made for each plant In the case of
discharges to rivers, the cost of a gravity sewer line of approprMtp si/p and construc-
tion was applied. If ocean disposal was considered, the estimate In-, .imp more diffi-
cult lue to the lack of data and the expected variation in costs kivd on site condi-
tions Price ranges presently m 1 «se by PR ASA for such calculation- are between $300
and $900 per lineal meter The Poncp outfall, built on piles, cost ihout $933 a lineal
meter An estimate of $800 per lineal was used for this study Construction costs for
diffusers are included in each ocean outfall estimate.
Annual operation and maintainance costs were determined using PHASA's chart
for activated sludge plants, updated to February 197? Cost estimates for operation and
maintainance of treatment plants include manpower and material requirements for full-
time operation.
Sewer Lines and Pumping Stations
Cost estimates of sewer lines and pumping stations were based on evaluation of
the amount of flow of wastewaters to be accomodated by the sewerage systems in their
various locales.
The design of trunk sewprs involved a number of considerations Domestic and
industrial wastewater flow contributions were calculated, excluding those heavy water
using industries which are not to be connected to the systems. Using the flow figures
so derived, and adding a 15 gpcd infiltration flow based on existing or protected popu
lation, the total design flow for the system was developed according to the formula:
Design Flow: 4/3 (1.5 Domestic Contribution + Infiltration +
Industrial Waste)
Two types of sewer lines were selected for use: ConcrPtt pipe for gravity flow,
and cast iron for force lines associated with pumping stations. Pipe size was determined
on the basis of low capacity according to the following tabled
Size of Sewer Pipe (concrete) Amount of Flow (MGD)
8" up to 0.6
10"
0.6
1
12"
1
1.7
15"
1.7
3.5
18"
3.5
5
21"
5
6.5
B-2
-------
Size of Sewer Pipe {concrete)
Amount of Flow (MGD)
*
CM
6.5
8
27"
8
9.5
30"
9.5
11
36"
11
15
42"
15
20
48"
20
25
60"
25 and above
After the pipe size was determined, costs were based on tables supplied by
PRASA. Table B-1 shows the costs for cast iron pipe.4 Table B-1 show costs for
concrete pipe.^
Installation of pumping stations was determined on the basis of the relief of the
area sewered, with the stations and force lines being installed at low points and near
treatment plants where needed. Pumping stations costs were evaluated on the basis of
figures published by the Federal Water Pollution Control Administration of the Depart-
ment of the Interior <1970)5. These figures were updated to July, 1972 on the basis
of the Engineering News Record US Average Index and then increased 20 percent to
reflect local cost increases.
Trunk sewer lines were designed for a 50-year lifespan. Pumping stations at
sewerage treatment plants have a design life of 15 to 20 years.
B 3
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TABLE B-l: SEWER PIPE COSTS
Concrete Pipe Cast iron Pipe
Dianeter Cost in $ per lineal meter Cost (in $) per lineal meter
k"
85
6"
90
8"
90
95
10"
95
100
12"
100
110
15"
110
120
18"
115
130
21"
125
140
24"
130
170
IT
135
30"
15S
250
36"
175
200
320
1+8"
225
400
54"
255
60"
295
550
72"
365
78"
390
84"
430
90"
500
Ocean outfall 1,200 $ per lineal meter
SOURCE:' PRASA Planning Division
-------
FIGURE B-l: annual cost, thousand dollars
? - 4 t b 7 8 * i©
CAPITAL COST, MILLION DOLLARS
M
-------
FIGURE B-2: annual cost, thousand dollars
o
z
c_>
<
o.
<
o
<3
to
4 56789 16
capital cost, million dollars
-------
FIGURE B-3: annual cost, thousand dollars
5* 6* a* 9* MO 2*» 3*« 44a 5m G— *• 8m9»
6 7 8 9 10
CAPITAL COST, MILLION DOLLARS
B-5
-------
to
o
<
2S
Ul
ac
cy
c
UJ
sirxr»i»7:i7»r»T?7:iTm»L>i]rai
6* 7» 8» 9ft 1»0
IfiOO
PLANT AVERAGE DAY CAPACITY, HGD
-------
j .* ,» ,».« * \»
I 4 6 t 7 9 » 10
INSTALLED CAPACITY: HfiO
30 3C •* t» It »MWM
B-6
-------
APPENDIX C:
Low Streamflow Estimates
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APPENDIXC: LOW STREAMFLOW ESTIMATES
Water Quality must be related to some minimum level of streamflow. For
flow conditions less than the specified level, water quality standards will not be in
effect (see Appendix B). The average flow during seven consecutive days that would
recur an average of once ten years (7-day, 10 year low flow) was selected as a condi-
tion with frequency of occurence acceptable for water quality planning {10 percent
chance of occurence one in any given year).
Reliable low streamflow estimates of Puerto Rican rivers are difficult to make
for a number of reasons: few continous, long-term records of low flow exist; man
made disruptions of natural conditions, such as impoundments and diversions, are
numerous; and the great variability in topography, geology and rainfall in Puerto
Rico makes interpretation at ungaged stations problematical. Such low streamflow
values as have been calculated possess a low correlation. ^
The lack of available 7-day, 10 year low flow estimates led to the develop-
ment of estimates by the Water Quality Management Plan staff. US Geological
Survey periodic low flow records 2,3 ancj 1-day, 10-year low flow records and esti-
mates published by Geological Survey^ served as primary data sources.
Drainage areas were determined for all streamflowstatio'ns with appropriate
low flow records acid for additional river locations useful for estimating water quality
conditions (generally points near towns and at the mouths of rivers). All low flow
estimates were then converted to base flow, measured as cubic feet per second per
square mile of drainage area (cfsm). Low flow estimates for points without 1 day,
10-year low flow records or previous estimates were made by correlating elevation,
average yearly rainfall, and flow records of geographically similar stations with the
unknown point. One-day low flow estimates thus obtained were then converted to
7-day, 10-year low flow estimates by using a factor of 1.1.® The 7-day, 10 year low
flow estimates are given in Table D.
C J
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APPENDIX D: PUBLIC LAW 92-500; RELEVANT EXCERPTS
-------
RELEVANT EXCERPTS FROM PUBLIC LAW 92-500 THE WATER POLLUTION
CONTROL ACT AS AMENDED, 19 OCTOBER, 1972
Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972
Title I - Research & Related Programs
Declaration of Goals and Policy
Sec. 101 (a) <1 )-(6)
(b)
Comprehensive Programs for Water Pollution Control
Sec. 102 (a)
(0 (1)-(3)
Grants For Pollution Control Program
Sec. 106 (a)-(g)
Title II ¦ Grants for Construction of Treatment Works Purpose
Sec. 201
Federal Share
Sec. 202
Plans, Specifications, Estimates and Payment
Sec. 203
Limitations aid Conditions
Sec. 204
Allotment
Sec. 205
Areawide Waste Treatment Management
Sec. 208
Basin Planning
Sec. 209
Sewage Collection Systems
Sec. 211
Title 111 - Standards and Enforcement
Water Quality & Implementation Plans
Sec. 303 (e)
D-1
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TITLE I - RESEARCH & RELATED PROGRAMS
"Declaration of Goals and Policy"
"Sec. 101. (a) The main objective of this act is to restore and maintain the
chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the Nation's waters. In order to
achieve this objective it is hereby declared that, consistent with the provisions of
this Act -
(1) It is the national goal that the discharge of pollutants into the navigable
waters be eliminated by 1985;
(2) it is the national goal that wherever attainable, an interim goal of water
quality which provides for the protection and propagation of fish, shellfish, and wild-
life and provides for recreation in and on the water be achieved by July 1, 1983;
(3) it is the national policy that the discharge of toxic pollutants in toxic
amounts be prohibited;
(4) it is the national policy that Federal financial assistance be provided to
construct publicly owned waste treatment works;
(5) it is the national policy that area-wide waste treatment management plan-
ning processes be developed and implemented to assure adequate control of sources of
pollutants in each State; and
(6) it is the national policy that a major research and demonstration effort be
made to develop technology to eliminate the discharge of pollutants into the navigable
waters, waters of the contiguous zone, and the oceans.
(b) It is the policy of the Congress to recognize, preserve, and
protect the primary responsibilities and rights of States to prevent, reduce and elimi-
nate pollution, to plan the development and use (including restoration, preservation,
and enhancement) of land and water resources, and to consult with the Administrator
in the exercise of his authority under this Act. It is further the policy of the Congress
to support and aid research relating to the prevention, reduction, and elimination of
pollution, and to provide Federal technical services and financial aid to State and inter-
state agencies and municipalities in connection with the prevention, reduction and elimi-
nation of pollution.
COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAM FOR WATER POLLUTION CONTROL
Sec, 102 (a) The Administrator shall, after careful investigation, and in coopera-
tion with other Federal agencies, State water pollution control agencies, interstate agencies,
and the municipalities and industries involved, prepare or develop comprehensive programs
for preventing, reducing, or eliminating the pollution of the navigable waters and ground
waters and improving the sanitary condition of surface and underground waters. In the
development of such comprehensive programs due regard shall be given to the improve-
ment which are necessary to conserve such waters for the protection and propagation
of fish and aquatic life and wildlife, recreational purposes, and the withdrawal of such
waters for public water supply, agricultural, industrial, and other purposes. For the
D-2
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purpose of this section, the Administrator is authorized to make joint investigations
of any waters in any State or States, and of the discharges of any sewage, industrial
wastes, or substances which may adversely affect such waters.
(c) (1) The Administrator shall, at the request of the Governor of a State,
or a majority of the Governors when more than one State is involved, make a grant
to pay not to exceed 50 per centum of the administrative expenses of a planning
agency for a period not to exceed three years, which period shall begin after the date
of enactment of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, if such
agency provides for adequate representation of appropriate State, Interstate, local, or
(when appropriate) international interests in the basin or portion thereof involved and
is capable of developing an effective, comprehensive water quality control plan for a
basin or portion thereof.
(2) Each planning agency receiving a grant under this sub-section shall develop a
comprehensive pollution control plan for the basin or portion thereof which
(A) is consistent with any applicable water quality standards, effluent and
other limitations, and thermal discharge regulations established pursuant to current law
within the basin:
(C) recommends maintenance and improvement of water quality within the
basin in portion thereof and recommends methods of adequately financing those facilities
as may be necessary to implement the plan; and
(3) For the purposes of this subsection the term "basin" includes, but is
not limited to, rivers and their tributaries, streams, coastal waters, sounds, estuaries,
bays, lakes and portions thereof, as well as the lands drained thereby.
GRANTS FOR POLLUTION CONTROL PROGRAMS
Sec. 106 (a) There are hereby authorized to be appropriated the following sums,
to remain available until expended, to carry out the purposes of this section -
(1) $60,000,000 for the fiscal year e/iding June 30, 1973; and
(2) $75,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1974;
for grants to States and to interstate agencies to assist them in administering programs
for the prevention, reduction, and elimination of pollution, including enforcement directly
or through appropriate State law enforcement officers or agencies.
(b) From the sums appropriated in any fiscal year, the Administrator shall make allot-
ments to the several States and interstate agencies in accordance with regulations promulgated
by him on the basis of the extent of the pollution problem in the respective States.
D-3
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(c) The Administrator is authorized to pay to each State and interstate agency
each fiscal year either--
(1) the allotment of such State or agency for such fiscal year under subsection (b),
or
(2) the reasonable costs as determined by the Administrator of developing and
carrying out a pollution program by such State or agency during such fiscal year, which
ever amount is the lesser.
(d) No grant shall be made under this section to any State or interstate agency for
any fiscal year when the expenditure of non-Federal funds by such State or interstate agency
during such fiscal year for the re-current expenses of carrying out its pollution control program
are less than the expenditure by such State or interstate agency of non-Federal funds for such
recurrent program expenses during fiscal year ending June 30,1970.
(e) Beginning in fiscal year 1974 the Administrator shall not make any grant under
this section to any State which has not provided or is not carrying out as a part of its program-
(1) the establishment and operation of appropriate devices, methods, systems, and
procedures necessary to monitor, and to compile and analyze data on (including classifica-
tion according to eutrophic condition), the quality of navigable waters and to the extent
practicable, ground waters including biological monitoring; and provision for annually up-
dating such data and including it in the report required under section 205 of this Act;
(2) authority comparable to that in section 504 of this Act and adequate contin
gency pfans to implement such authority.
(f) Grants shall be made under this section on condition that-
(1) Such State (or interstate agency) files with the Administrator within one hundred
and twenty days after the date of enactment of this section:
(A) a summary report of the current status of the State pollution control program,
including the criteria used by the State in determining priority of treatment works; and
(8) such additional information, data and reports as the Administrator may require.
(2) No federally assumed enforcement as defined in section 309 (a) (2) is in effect
with respect to such State or interstate agency.
(3) Such State (or interstate agency) submits within one hundred and twenty days
after the date of enactment of this section and before July 1 of each year thereafter for the
Administrator's approval its program for the prevention, reduction, and elimination of pollu-
tion in accordance with purposes and provisions of this Act in such form and content as the
Administrator may prescribe.
(g) Any sums allotted under subsection (b) in any fiscal year which are not paid shall
be reallotted by the Administrator in accordance with regulations promulgated by him.
D 4
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TITLE II -- GRANTS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF TREATMENT WORKS
Sec. 201 (a) It is the purpose of this title to require and to assist the development
and implementation of waste treatment management plans and practices which will achieve
the goals of this Act.
(b) Waste treatment management plans and practices shall provide for application
of the best practicable waste treatment technology before any discharge disposal of poMu
tants so they will not migrate to cause water or other environmental pollution and shall
provide for consideration of advanced waste treatment techniques.
(c) To the extent practicable, waste treatment management shall be on an area
wide basis and provide control of treatment of all point and nonpoint sources of pollution,
including inplace or accumulated pollution sources.
(d) The Administrator shall encourage waste treatment management which results
in the construction of revenues producing facilities providing for
(1) the recycling of potential sewage pollutants through the production of silviculture
or agriculture products, or any combination thereof;
(2) the confined and contained disposal of pollutants not recycled;
(3) the reclamation of wastewater; and
(4) the ultimate disposal of sludge in a manner that will not result in environmental
hazards.
(e) The Administrator shall encourage waste treatment management which results
in integrating facilities for sewage treatment and recycling with facilities to treat, dispose
of, or utilize other industrial and municipal wastes, including but not limited to solid waste
heat and thermal discharges. Such integrated facilities shall be designed and operated to
produce revenues in excess of capital and operation and maintenance costs and such revenues
shall be used by the designated regional management agency to aid in financing other envi
ronmental improvement programs.
(f) The Administrator shall encourage waste treatment management which combines
'open space' and recreational considerations with such management.
(g)(1) The Administrator is authorized to make grants to any State, municipality,
or intermunicipal or interstate agency for the construction of publicly owned treatment
works.
(2) The Administrator shall not make grants from funds authorized for any fiscal
year beginning after June 30,1974, to any State, municipality, ot intermunicipal or inter-
state agency for the erection, building, acquisition, alteration, remodeling, improvement,
D-5
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or extension of treatment works unless the grant applicant has satisfactorily demons-
trated to the Administrator that-
(A) alternative waste management techniques have been studied and evaluated
and the works proposed for grant assistance will provide for the application of the best
practicable waste treatment technology over the life of the works consistent with the
purposes of this title; and
(B) as appropriate, the works proposed for grant assistance will take into account
and allow to the extent practicable the application of technology at a later date which
will provide for the reclaiming or recycling of water or otherwise eliminate the discharge
of pollutants.
(3) The Administrator shall not approve any grant after July 1, 1973, for treat-
ment works under this section unless the applicant shows to the satisfaction of the Admi-
nistrator that each sewer collection system discharging into such treatment works is not
subject to excessive infiltration.
(4} The Administration is authorized to make grants to applicants for treatment
works grants under this section for such sewer system evaluation studies as may be
necessary to carry out the requirements of paragraph (3) of this sub-section. Such grants
shall be made in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the Administrator.
Initial rules and regulations shall be promulgated under this paragraph not later than 120
days after the date of enactment of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments
of 1972.
FEDERAL SHARE
Sec. 202 (a) The amount of any grant for treatment works made under this Act
from funds authorized for any fiscal year beginning after June 30,1971, shall be 75 per
centum of the cost of construction therefore (as approved by the Administrator). Any
grant (other than for reimbursement) made prior to the date of enactment of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972 from any funds authorized for any
fiscal year beginning after June 30,1971, shall upon the request of the applicant, be in-
creased to the applicabte percentage under thi$ section.
(b) The amount of the grant for any project approved by the Administrator after
January 1, 1971, and before Juiyl, 1971, for the construction of treatment works, the
actual erection, building or acquisition of which was not commenced prior to July 1, 1971,
shall, upon the request of the applicant, be increased to the applicable percentage under
subsection (a) of this section for grants for treatment works from funds for fiscal years
beginning after June 20, 1971, with respect to the cost of such actual erection, building
or acquisition. Such increased amount shall be paid from any funds allotted to the State
in which the treatment works is located without regards to the fiscal year for which such
funds were authorized. Such increased amount shall be paid for such project only if-
D-6
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(1) a sewage collection system that is a part of the same total waste treatment
system as the treatment works for which such grant was approved is under construction
or is to be construction for use in conjunction wich such treatment works, and if the
cost of such sewage collection system exceeds the cost of such treatment works, and
(2) the State water pollution control agency or other appropriate State author-
ity certifies that the quantity of available ground water will be insufficient, inadequate,
or unsuitable for public use, including the ecological preservation and recreational use
of surface water bodies, unless effluents from publicly-owned treatment works after
adequate treatment are returned to the ground water consistent with acceptable tech-
nological standards.
PLANS. SPECIFICATIONS, ESTIMATES, AND PAYMENTS
Sec. 203 (a) Each applicant for a grant shall submit to the Administrator for
his approval, plans, specifications, and estimates for each proposed project for the
construction of treatment works for which a grant is applied for under section 201 (1)
from funds allotted to the State under section 205 and which otherwise meets the
requirements of this Act. The Administrator shall act upon such plans, specifications
and estimates as soom as practicable after the same have been submitted, and his approval
of any such plans, specifications and estimates shad be deemed a contractual obligation
of the United States for the payment of its proportional contribution to such project.
(b) The Administrator shall, from time to time as the work progresses, make
payments to the recipient for a grant for costs of construction incurred on a project.
These payments shall at no time exceed the Federal share of the cost of construction
incurred to the date of the voucher covering such payment plus the Federal share
of the value of the materials which have been stockpiled in the vicinity of such cons-
fruction in conformity to plans and specifications for the project.
|c) After completion of a project and approval of the final voucher by the Adminis-
trator, he shall pay out of the appropriate sum the unpaid balance of the Federal share
payable on account of such project.
LIMITATIONS & CONDITIONS
Sec. 204 (a) Before approving grants for any project for any treatment works
under section 201 (g) (1) the Administrator shall determine--
(1) that such works are included In any applicable areawide waste treatment manage-
ment plan developed under section 208 of this Act;
(2) that such works are in conformity with any applicable State plan under section
303 (c) of this Act;
(3) that such works have been certified by the appropriate State water pollution
control agency as entitled to priority over such other works in the State in accordance with
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any applicable State plan under section 303 (e) of this Ate;
(4) that the applicant proposing to construct such works agrees to pay the non-
Federal costs of such works and has made adequate provisions satisfactory to the Ad-
ministrator for assuring proper and efficient operation, including the employment of
trained management and operations personnel, and the maintenance of such works in
accordance with a pJan of operation approved by the State water pollution control
agency or, as appropriate, the interstate agency, after constructions thereof;
(5) that the size and capacity of such works relate directly to the needs to be
served by such works, including sufficient restrve capacity. The amount of reserve
capacity provided shall be approved by the Administrator on the basis of a comparison
of the cost of constructing such reserves as a part of the wprks to be funded and the
anticipated cost of providing expanded capacity at a date when such eapacity will be
required ,h
(6) that no specification for bid in connection with such works shall be written in
such a manner as to contain proprietary, exclusionary, or discriminatory requirements
other than those based upon performance, unless such requirements are necessary to teit
or demonstrate a specific thing or to provide for necessary interchangeability of parts and
equipment, or at least two brand names or trade names of comparable quality or utility
are listed and are followed by the words 'or equal'.
(b) (1) Not withstanding any other provision of this title, the Administrator shall
not approve any grant for any treatment works under section 201 (q) (1) after March 1,
1973, unless he shall first have determined that this applicant
(A) has adopted or will adopt a system of charges to assure that each recipient
of waste treatment sBrvices within the applicant's jurisdiction, as determined by the Ad-
ministrator, will pay its proportionate share of the costs of operation and maintenance
(including replacement) of any waste treatment services provided by the applicant;
(B) has made provision for the payment to such applicant by the industrial users of the
treatment works, of that portion of the cost of construction of such treatment works
(as determined by the Administrator) which is allocable to the treatment of such indus-
trial wastes to the-extent attributable to thfc Federal share of the cost of construction;
and (C) has legal, institutional managerial, and financial capability to insure adequate
construction, operation, and maintenance of treatment works throughout the applicant's
jurisdiction, as determined by the Administrator.
(2} The Administrator shall, within one hundred and eighty days after the date
of enactment of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, and
after consultation with appropriate State, interstate, municipal, and intermunicipal
agencies, issue guidelines applicable to payment of waste treatment costs by industrial
and nonindustriaf recipients of waste treatment services which shall establish (A) classes
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of users of such services, including categories of industrial users; (B) criteria against which
to determine the adequacy of charges imposed on classes and categories of users reflecting
all factors that influence the cost of waste treatment, including strength, volume, and
delivery flow rate characteristics of waste; and (C) model systems and rates of user charges
typical of various treatment works serving municipal-industrial communities.
(3) The grantee shall retain an amount of the revenue derived from the payment
of costs by industrial users of waste treatment service, to trfb extent costs are attributable
to the Federal share of eligible project costs provided pursuant to this title and determined
by the Administrator, equal to (A) the amount of the non-Federal cost of such project
paid by the grantee plus (B) the amount determined in accordance with regulations pro-
mulgated by the Administrator, necessary for future expansion and reconstruction of the
project, except that such retained amount shall not exceed 50 per centum of such revenues
from such project. All revenues from such project not retained by the grantee shall be
deposited by the Administrator in the Treasury as miscellaneous receipts. That portion of
the revenues retained by the grantee attributable to clause (B) of the first sentence of this
paragraph, together with any interest therein shall be used solely for the purposes of future
expansion and reconstruction of the
(4) Approval of the Administrator of a grant to an interstate agency established by
interstate compact for any treatment works shall satisfy any other requirement that such
works be authorized by Act of Congress.
ALLOTMENT
Sec. 205 (a) Sums authorized to be appropriated pursuant to section 207 for each
fiscal year beginning after June 30, 1972, shall be allotted by the Administrator not later
than the January 1st immediately preceding the beginning of the fiscal year for which
authorized, except that the allotment for fiscal year 1973 shall be made not later than 30
days after the date of enactment of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of
1972. Such sums shall be allotted among the States by the Administrator in accordance with
regulations promulgated by him, in the ratio that the estimated cost of constructing all needed
publicly owned treatment works in each State bears to the estimated cost of construction of
all needed owned treatment works in all of the States. For the fiscal years ending June 30,
1973, and June 30, 1974, such ratio shall be determined on the basis of table III of House
Public Works Committee Print No. 92-50. Allotments for fiscal years which begin after the
fiscal year ending June 30, 1974, shall be made only in accordance with a revised cost estimate
made and submitted to Congress in accordance with section 516 (b) of this Act and only after
such revised cost estimate shall have been approved by law specifically enacted hereafter.
(b)(1) Any sums allotted to a State under subsection (a) shall be available for obli-
gation under section 203 on and after the date of such allotment. Such sums shall continue
available for obligation in such State for a period of one year after the close of the fiscal year
for which such sums are authorized. Any amounts so allotted which are not obligated by the
end of such one-year period shall be immediately reallotted by the Administrator, in accordance
with regulations promulgated by him, generally on the basis of the ratio used in making the last
allottment of sums under this section. Such reallotted sums shall be added to the last allotments
made to the States. Any sum made available to a State by reallottment under this subsection
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shall be in addition to any funds otherwise allotted to such State for grants under this title
during any fiscal yaar.
(2) Any sums which have been obligated under section 203 and which are released
by the payment of the final voucher for the project shall be immediately credited to the
State to which such sums were last allotted. Such released sums shall be added to the
amounts last allotted to such State end shall be immediately available for obligation in the
same manner and to the same extent on such last allotment.
AREAWIDE WASTE TREATMENT MANAGEMENT
Sec. 208 (a) For the purpose of encouraging and ferilitating the development and
¦implementation of areawide waste treatment management plans-
ID The Administrator, within ninety days after the date of enactment of this Act.
and after consultation with appropriate Federal, State, and local authorities, shall by regu-
lation publish guidelines for the identification of those areas which, as a result of urban-
industrial concentrations or other factors, have substantial water quality control problems.
(2) The Governor of each State, within sixty days after publication of the guidelines
issued pursuant to paragraph (1) of this sub-section, shall identify each area within the State
which, as a result of urban-industrial concentrations or other factors, has substantial water
quality control problems. Not later than one hundred and twenty days following such iden-
tification and after consultation with appropriate elected and other officials of local govern-
ments having jurisdiction ih such areas, the Governor shall designate (A) the boundaries of
each such area, and (B} a single representative organization, including elected officials from
local governments of their designees, capable of developing effective areawide waste treat-
ment management plans for such area. The Governor may in the same manner at any later
time identify any additional area (or modify an existing area) forwhich he determines areawide
waste treatment management to be appropriate, designate the boundaries of such area, and
designate an organization capable of developing effective areawide waste treatment manage-
ment plans for such area.
(3} With respect to any area which, pursuant to the guidelines published under para-
graph (1) of this subsection, is located in two or more States, the Governors of the respective
States shall consult and cooperate in carrying out the provisions of paragraph (2), with a view
toward designating the boundaries of the interstate area having common water quality control
problems and for which areawide waste treatment management plans would be mo»t effective,
and toward designating, within one hundred and eighty days after publication of the guide-
lines issued pursuant to paragraph (1) of this subsection, of a single representative otganiza-
tion capable of developing effective waste treatment plans for such area.
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(4) If a Governor does not act, either bv designating or deterrmmng not
to make a designation under paragraph (2) of this subsection, within the time
required by such paragraph, or if, in the case of an interstate area, the Governors
of the States involved do not designate a planning organization within in the time
required by paraparagraph (3) of this subsection, the chief elected officials of local
governments within an area may by agreement designate (A) the boundaries for
such an area, and (B) a single representative organization including elected officials
from such local governments, or their designees, capable of developing an area-
wide watte treatment management plan for such area.
(5) Existing regional agencies may be designated under paragraphs (2), (3),
and (4) of this subsection.
(6) The State shall act as a planning agency for all portions of such State which
are not designated under paragraphs (2), (3), or (4) of this subsection
(7) Designations under this subsection shall be subject to the approval of the
Administrator.
(b) (1) Not later than one year after the date of designation of any organization
under subsection (a) of this section such organization shall have in operation a continuing
areawide waste treatment management planning process consistent with section 201 of
this Act. Plans prepared in accordance with this process shall contain alternatives for
waste treatment management, and be applicable to all wastes generated within the area
involved. The initial plan prepared in accordance with such process shall be certified
by the Governor and submitted to the Administrator not later than two years after the
planning process is in operation.
(2) Any plan prepared under such process shall include, but not be limited to-
(A) the identification of treatment works necessary to meet the anticipated
municipal and industrial waste treatment needs of the area over a twenty-year period,
annually updated (including an analysis of alternative waste treatment systems), in-
cluding any requirements for the acquisition of land for treatment purposes; the neces-
sary waste water collection and urban storm water runoff systems; and a program to
provide the necessary financial arrangements for the development of such treatment
works;
(B) the establishment of construction priorities for such treatment works and
time schedules for the initiation and completion of all treatment works;
(C) The establishment of a regulatory program to--
(i) implement the waste treatment management requirements of section 201 (e)
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(ii) regulate the location, modification, and construction of any facilities
within such area which may result in any discharge to such area, and
(iii) assure that any industrial or commercial wastes discharged into any treat-
ment works in such area meet applicable pretreatment requirements,
(D) the identification of those agencies necessary to construct, operate and
maintain all facilities required by the plans and otherwise to carry out the plan;
(E) the identification of the measures necessary to carry out the plan (includ-
ing financing), the period of time necessary to carry out the plan, the costs of carrying
impact out the plan within such time, and the economic, social and environmental
(F) a process to (i) indentify, if appropriate, agriculturally and silvicuiturally re-
lated nonpoint sources of pollution, including runoff from manure disposal areas, and
from land used for livestock and crop production, and (ii) set forth procedures and me-
thods (including land use requirements) to control to the extent feasible such courses;
(G) a process to (i) identify, if appropriate, mine-related sources of pollution
including new, current, and abandoned surface and underground mine runoff, and (ii)
set forth procedures and methods {including land use requirements) to control to the
extent feasible such sources;
(H) a process to (i) identify construction activity,related sources of pollution, and
(ii) set forth procedures and methods (including land use requirements) to control to the
extent feasible such sources;
(I) a process to (i) identify, if appropriate, salt water intrusion into rivers, lakes and
estuaries resulting from reduction of fresh water flow from any cause, including irrigation,
obstruction, ground water extraction, and diversion, and (ii) set forth procedures and me-
thods to control such intrusion to the extent feasible where such procedures and methods
are otherwise a part of the waite treatment management plan;
(J) a process to control the disposition of all residual waste generated in such area
which could affect water quality; and
(K) a process to control the disposal of pollutants on land or in subsurface excava-
tions within such area to protect ground and surface water quality
(3) Area wide waste treatment management plans shall be certified annually by the
Governor or his designee ( or Governors or their designees, where more than one State is
involved) as being consistent with applicable basin plans and such areawide waste treatment
management plans shall be submitted to the Administrator for his approval.
(4) When.ever the Governor of any State determines (and notifies the Administrator)
that consistency with a statewide regulatory program under section (303) so requires, the
requirements of clauses (F) through (K) of paragraph (2) of this subsection shall be developed
and submitted by the Governor to the Administrator for application to all regions within such
State.
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(c) {1) The Governor of each State, in consultation with the planning agency
designated under subsection (a) of this section, at the time a plan is submitted to the
Administrator, shall designate one or more waste treatment management agencies
{which may be an existing or newly created local, regional, or State agency or poli-
tical subdivision) for each area designated under subsection (a) of this section and sub-
mit such designations to the Administrator.
(2) The Administrator shall accept any such designation, unless, within 120 days
of such designation, he finds that the designated management agency {or agencies) does
not have adequate authority-
(A) to carry out appropriate portions of an areawide waste treatment management
plan developed under subsection lb} of this section;
(B) to manage effectively waste treatment works and related facilities serving such
area in conformance with any plan required by subsection (b) of this section;
(C) directly or by contract, to design and construct new works, and to operate and
maintain new and existing works as required by any plan developed pursuant to subsection
(b) of this section;
(D) to accept and utilize grants, or other funds from any source, for waste treatment
management purposes;
(E) to raise revenues, including the assessment of waste treatment charges;
(F) to Incur short- and long-term indebtedness;
(G) to assure in implementation of an areawide waste treatment management plan
that each participating community pays its proportionate share of treatment costs;
(H) to refuse to receive any wastes from any municipality or subdivision thereof,
which does not comply with any provisions of an approved plan under this section applic-
able to such area; and
(I) to.acoatpt for trwatmnnt industrial wastes
(d) After a waste treatment management agency having the authority required by
subsection (c) has been designated under such subsection for an area and a plan for such
areas has been approved under subsection (b) of this section, the Administrator shall not
make any grant for construction of a publicly owned treatment works under section 201
(9) (1) within such area except to such designated agency and for works in conformity
with such plan.
(e) No permit under section 402 of this Act shall be issued for any point source
which is in conflict with a plan approved pursuant to subsection (b) of this section.
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(f) (1) The administrator shall make grants to any agency designated under sub-
section (a) of this section for payment of the reasonable costs of developing and operating
a continuing areawide waste treatment management planning process under sub-section (b)
of this section.
(2) The amount granted to any agency under paragraph (1) of this subsection shall
be 100 per centum of the costs of developing and operating a continuing areawide waste
treatment management planning process under subsection (b) of this section for each of
the fiscal years ending on June 30, 1973, June 30, 1974, and June 30, 1975, and shall
not exceed 75 per centum of such costs in each succeeding fiscal year.
(3) Each applicant for a grant under this subsection shall submit to the Adminis-
trator for his approval each proposal for which a grant is applied for under the subsection.
The Administrator shall act upon such proposal as soon as practicable after it has been
submitted, and his approval of that proposal shall be deemed a contractual obligation of
the United States for the payment of its contribution to such proposal. There is author-
ized to be appropriated to carry out this subsection not to exceed $50,000,000 for the
fiscal year ending June 30,1973, not to exceed $100,000,000 for the fiscal year ending
June 30, 1974, and not to exceed $150,000,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1975.
(g) The Administrator is authorized, upon request of the Governor or the desginated
planning agency, and without reimbursement, to consult with and provide technical assis-
tance to, any agency designated under subsection (a) of this section in the development of
areawide waste treatment management plans under subsection (b) of this section.
(h) (1) The Secretary of the Army, acting through the Chief of Engineers, in coope-
ration with the Administrator is authorized and directed , upon request of the Governor of
the designated planning organization, to consult with, and provide technical assistance to, any
agency designed under subsection (a) of this section in developing and operating areawide waste
treatment management planning process under subsection (b) of this section.
(2) There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of the Army, to carry out
this subsection, not to exceed $50,000,000 per fiscal year for the fiscal years ending June 30,
1973 and June 30,1974.
BASIN PLANNING
Sec. 209 (a) The President, acting through the Water Resources Council shall, as soon
as practicable, prepare a Level B plan under the Water Resources Planning Act for all basins
in the United States. All such plans shall be completed not later than January 1,1980, except
that priority in the preparation of such plans shall be given to those basins and portions there-
of which are within those areas designated under paragraphs (2), (3), and (4) of subsection
(a) of section 208 of this Act.
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(b) The President, acting through the Water Resources Council, shall report
annually to Congress on progress being made in carrying out this section. The first
such report shell be submitted not later than January 31,1973.
(c) There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section not to
exceed $200,000,000.
SEWAGE COLLECTION SYSTEMS
Sec. 211 No grant shell be made for a sewage collection system under this
title unless such grant (1) is for replacement or major rehabilitation of an existing
collection system and is necessary to the total integrity and performance of the waste
treatment works servicing such community, or (2) is for a new collection system in an
existing community with sufficient existing or planned capacity adequately to treat such
collected sewage and is consistent with section 201 of this Act.
WATER QUALITY STANDARDS & IMPLEMENTATION PLANS
Sec. 303 (a) (1) In order to carry out the purpose of this Act, any water qua-
lity standard applicable to interstate waters which was adopted by any State and sub-
mitted to, and approved by, or is awaiting approval by. the Administrator pursuant to
this Act as in effect immediately prior to the date of enactment of the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, shall remain in effect unless the Adminis-
trator determined that such standard is not consistent with the applicable requirements
of this Act as in effect immediately prior to the date of enactment of the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972. If the Administrator makes such a deter-
mination he shall, within three months after the date of enactment of the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, notify the State and specify the changes
needed to meet such requirements. If such changes are not adopted by the State within
ninety days after the date of such notification, the Administrator shall promulgatt such
changes in accordance with subsection (b) of this section.
(2} Any State which, before the date of enactment of the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act Amendments of 1972, has adopted, pursuent to its own law, water quality
standards applicable to intrastate waters shall submit such standards to the Administrator
within thirty days after the date of enactment of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
Amendments of 1972. Each such standard shall remain in effect, in the same manner and
to the same extent as any other water quality standard established under this Act unless
the Administrator determines that such standard is inconsistent with the applicable require
ments of this Act as in effect immediately prior to the date of enactment of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972. If the Administrator makes such a
determination he shall not later than the one hundred and twentieth day after the date of
submission of such standards, notify the State and specify the changes needed to meet
such requirements. If such changes are not adopted by the State within-90 days after such
notification, the Administrator shall promulgate such changes in accordance with sub-
section (b) of this section.
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(3) (A) Any State which prior to the date of enactment of the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972 has not adopted pursuant to its own laws
water quality standards applicable to intrastate water shall, not later than one hundred
and eighty days after the date of enactment of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act
Amendments of 1973, adopt and submit such standards to the Administrator.
(B) If the Administrator determines that any such standards are consistent with
the applicable requirements of this Act as in effect immediately prior to the date of enact-
ment of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, he shall approve
such standards.
(C) If the Administrator determines that any such standards are not consistent
with the applicable requirements of this Act as in effect immediately prior to the date of
enactment of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, he shall, not
later than the 90 day after the date of submission of such standards, notify the State and
specify the changes to meet such requirements. If such changes are not adopted by the
State within 90 days after the date of notification, the Administrator shall promulgate
such standards pursuant to subsection (b) of this section.
(b) (1) The Administrator shall promptly prepare and publish proposed regulations
setting forth watei quality standards for a State in accordance with the applicable require-
ments of this Act as in effect immediately prior to the date of enactment of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, if-
(A) the State fails to submit water quality standards within the times prespribed
in subsection (a) of this section,
(B) a water quality standard submitted by such State under subsection (a) of this
section is determined by the Administrator not to be consistent with the applicable require-
ments of subsection (a) of this section.
(2) The Administrator shall promulgate any water quality standard published in a
proposed regulation not later than 190 days after the date he publishes any such proposed
standard, unless prior to such promulgation, such State has adopted a water quality standard
which the Administrator determines to be in accordance with subsection (a) of this section.
(c) (1) The Governor of a State or the State water pollution control agency of such
State shall from time to time (but at least once each three year period beginning with the
date of enactment of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972) hold
public hearings for the purpose of reviewing applicable water quality standards and, as
appropriate, modifying and adopting standards. Results of such review shall be made avail-
able to the Administrator.
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(2) Whenever the State revises or adopts a new standard, such revised or new
standard shall be submitted to the Administrator Such revised or new water quality
standard shall consist of the designated uses of the navigable waters involved and the
water quality criteria for such waters based upon such uses Such standards shall be
such as to protect the public health or welfare, enhance the quality of water and serve the
purposes of this Act Such standards shall be established taking into consideration their
use and value for public water supplies, propagation of fish and wildlife, recreational pur
poses, and agricultural, industrial, and other purposes, and also taking into consideration their
use and value for navigation.
(3) If the Administrator, within 60 days after the date of submission of the revised
or new standard, determines that such standard meets the requirements of this Act, such
standard shall thereafter be the water quality standard for the applicable waters of that
State. If the Administrator determines that any such revised or new standard is not con
sistent with the applicable requirements of this Act, he shall not later than the ninetieth
day after the date of submission of such standard notify the State and specify the changes
to meet such requirements. If such changes are not adopted by the State within 90 days after
the date of notification, the Administrator shall promulgate such standard pursuant to para
gra£>h (4) of this subsection.
(4) The Administrator shall promptly prepare and publish proposed regulations
setting forth a revised or new water quality standard for the navigable waters involved
(A| if a revised or new water quality standard submitted by such State under para
graph (3) of this subsection for such waters is determined by the Administrator not to be
consistent with the applicable requirements of this Act, or
(B) in any case where the Administrator determines that a revised or new standard
is necessary to meet the requirements of this Act. The Administrator shall promulgate any
revised or new standard under this paragraph not less than 90 days after he publishes such
proposed standards, unless prior to such promulgation, such State has adopted a revised or
new water quality standard which the Administrator determines to be in accordance with
this Act.
(d) (1) (A) Each State shall identify those waters within i|s boundaries for which
the effluent limitations required by section 301 (b) (1) (A) and section 301 (b) (1} IB) are
not stringent enough to implement any water quality standard applicable to such waters.
The State shall establish a priority ranking for such waters, taking into account the severity
of the pollution and the uses to be made of such waters.
(B) Each State shell identify those waters or parts thereof within its boundaries for
which controls on thermal discharges under section 301 are not stringent enough to assure
protection and propagation of a balanced indigenous population of shellfish, fish end wildlife
(C) Each State shall establish for the waters identified in paragraph (1) (A) of this
subsection, and in accordance with the priority ranking, the total maximum dally load, for
those pollutants which the Administrator Identifies under section 304 (a) (2) as suitable for
such calculation. Such load shall be established ts a level necessary jo implement the applic
able water quality standards with seasonal variations and a margin of safety which takes into
D 17
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account any lack of knowledge concerning the relationship between effluent limitations
and water quality.
(D) Each State shall estimate for the waters identified in paragraph (1) .(B) of this
subsection the total maximum daily thermal load required to assure protection and pro-
pagation of a balanced, indigenous population of shellfish, fish and wildlife. Such esti-
mates shall take into account the normal water temperatures, flow rates, seasonal varia-
tions, existing sources of heat input, and the dissipative capacity of the identified waters
or parts thereof. Such estimates shall include a calculation of the maximum heat input
that can be made into each such part and shall include a margin of safety which takes into
account any lack of knowledge concerning the development of thermal water quality cri-
teria for such protection and propagation in the identified waters or parts thereof.
(2) Each State shall submit to the Administrator from time to time, with the first
such submission not later than 180 days after the date of publication of the first identifi-
cation of pollutants under section 304 (a) (2) (0), for his approval the waters identified
and the loads established under paragraphs (1) (A), (1) (B), (1) (C), and (1) (D) of this sub-
section. The Administrator shall either approve or disapprove such identification and load
not later than 30 days after the date of submission. If the Administrator approves such iden-
tification and load, such State shall incorporate them into its current plan under subsection
(e) of this section. If the Administrator disapproves such identification and load, he shall not
later than 30 days after the date of such disapproval identify such waters in such State and
establish such loads for such waters as he determines necessary to implement the water quality
standards applicable to such waters and upon such identification and establishment the State
shall incorporate them into its current plan under subsection (e) of this section.
(3) For the specific purpose of developing information, each State shall identify all
waters within its boundaries which it has not identified under paragraph (1) (A) and (1) (B)
of this subsection and estimate for such waters the total maximum daily load with seasonal
variations and margins for safety, for those pollutants which the Administrator identifies
under section 304 (a) (2) as suitable for such calculation and for thermal discharges, at a
level that would assure protection and propagation of a balanced indigenous population of
fish, shellfish and wildlife.
(e) (1) Each State shall have a continuing planning process approved under para-
graph 12) of this subsection which is consistent with this Act.
(2) Each State shall submit not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment
of the Water Pollution Control Amendments of 1972 to the Administrator for his approval
a proposed continuing planning process which is consistent with this Act. Not later than
30 days after the date of submission of such a process the Administrator shall either approve
or disapprove such process. The Administrator shall from time to time review such State's
approved planning process for the purpose of insuring that such planning process is at all
times consistent with this Act. The Administrator shall not approve any State permit pro-
gram under title IV of this Act for any State which does not have an approved continuing
planning process under this section.
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(3) The Administrator shall approve any continuing planning process submitted
to him under this section which will result in plans for all navigable waters within such
State, which include, but are not limited to, the following:
(A) effluent limitations and schedules of compliance at least as stringent as those
required by sections 301 (b) (1), section 301 (bl (2), section 306, and section 307, and at
least as stringent as any requirements contained in any applicable water quality standard
in effect under authority of this section;
(B) the incorporation of all elements of any applicable areawide waste management
plans under section 208, and applicable basin plans under section 209 of this Act;
(C) total maximum daily load for pollutants in accordance with subsection (d) of this
section;
(D) procedures for revision;
(E) adequate authority for intergovernmental cooperation;
(F) adequate implementation, including schedules of compliance for revised or new
water quality standards, under subsection (c) of this section;
(G) controls over the disposition of all residual waste from any water treatment
processing;
(HI an inventory and ranking, in order of priority, of needs for construction of waste
treatment works required to meet the applicable requirements of sections 301 and 302.
(f) Nothing in this section shall be construed to affect any effluent limitations, or
schedule of compliance by any State to be implemented prior to the dates set forth in sec-
tions 301 (b) (1) and 301 (b) (2) nor to preclude any State from requiring compliance with
any effluent limitation or schedule of compliance at dbtes earlier than such dates.
(g) Water quality standards relating to heat shall be consistent with the requirements
of section 316 of this Act.
(h) For the purposes of this Act the term "water quality standards" includes thermal
water quality standards.
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APPENDIX E: FINANCIAL PLAN
(Full Text)
-------
appendix e
Financial Plan
FINAL DRAFT
ANALYSIS OF THE FUNDING SOURCES
AVAILABLE FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF
THE WATER QUALITY CONTROL
MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
FOR PUERTO RICO
Puerto Rico Planning Board
1974
E-1
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APPENDIX E
FINANCIAL PLAN
Introduction
Until very recently, the provision of potable water was considered to be a more
practical solution to public health problems than the prevention of contamination. Sewage
treatment plants were not thought to be essential elements of public infrastructure except
in the San Juan metropolitan area. Priority was assigned by the Commonwealth to public
investment in education, housing, medical facilities, transportation, and economic develop-
ment. With the preparation of a comprehensive water quality management program, treat-
ment plants must be accorded a higher priority, and the means of financing them must be
reviewed.
Between 1954 and 1973 less than 2 per cent of all investment in public facilities
went into sewage systems. As of 30 June 1973, the value of all sewage collection and treat-
ment systems was about $134 million, which represented about 30 per cent of the total
plant and equipment of the Puerto R too Aqueduct and Sewer Authority (PRASA). However, the
capital investment in such facilities came from sources outside the Authority, primarily from
Federal grants and Commonwealth General Fund appropriations, During the period 1966-1973
1973 Federal grants for such projects amounted to about $69 million. Commonwealth
appropriations were supplemented by contributions from municipalities (especially in the
San Juan area) and from public and private developers.
With the preparation of the initial Ten Year Program for Construction of Waste Water
Treatment Facilities in 1971, the Commonwealth government made a commitment to provide
local funds equivalent to an average of $11 million annually to match grants from the Federal
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), on a 56 per cent Federal/45 per cent local basis.
Impact of Public Law 92-500
The passage in October 1972 of public Law 92-500 increased the Federal share of
project costs to 75 per cent. It also greatly increased the total allocation* to the program as
well as the period of time during which projects can qualify for the funds assigned to any
individual fiscal year. For the first three fiscal years of the program, the Congress allocated
$1$ billion, of which Puerto Rico's share is estimated to be about $178 million. To match
this, the Commonwealth will have to provide a total of about $59 million from various
sources. This is considerably mora than was anticipated at the beginning of the program. To
provide all of the matching funds from the Commonwealth's regular capital budget would
severely strain Commonwealth resources. Alternatively, it would entail the deferment of
other important programs. The Planning Board has therefore addressed its effort to a review
of all means of capital funding in order to identify additional sources that might substitute
for legislative appropriations.
E-2
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Two factors should be noted, however. One is that the Federal funds designated
for any fiscal year may be allocated to specific projects (or stages of a project) during a
period of 30 months, starting in January prior to the beginning of the fiscal year and
ending 12 months after the end of the fiscal year. Another factor is that the actual cash
flow requirements will not require the Commonwealth to match the Federal funds in the
year in which they are allocated to Puerto Rico.
Estimated Need for Funds for the Construction Program
The original cost estimate for the TenYear Program (as of April 1971) aggregated
$245 million. Modifications of the program, including the statutory requirements of PL
92-500 for secondary level treatment and adjustment for changing costs have increased
the total cost to $456 million. Already appropriated from various sources is $82.8 million.
Therefore, the balance of the construction funds to be provided is approximately $373
million in 1973 dollars.
Under the new law, the total construction program will require approximately
$114 million in local matching funds. However, it must be acknowledged that the Water
Quality Management Program does not include all of the effort required to achieve the
desired water quality standards. For example, no estimate has been made of the cost of
complying with the requirement of investigating and reducing infiltration of storm waters
into the systems. Further, although Puerto Rico is mounting a major effort, it does not
now have the trained and experienced human resources to plan and execute such a program
within the time limits set by Congress. Additional Federal and local funds will undoubtedly
be required beyond 1983:
Available Federal Funds
PL 92-500 authorized $18 billion to be allocated during three fiscal years, based
on the preliminary statements of need filed by the states in 1971.
A table in the Congressional Record indicates that the following schedule for dis-
bursement of the appropriation was anticipated:
Maximum Rate of Expenditures by Fiscal Year
(In Billions)
Year in
Which
Distributed
Total FY 1973 FY 1974 FY 1975
Year of Authorization
Total
$18.00 $5.00 $6.00 $7.00
FY 1973
FY 1974
FY 1975
FY 1976
FY 1977
0.25
1.30
3.05
5.20
4.75
0.25
1.00
1.50
2.00
0.25
0.30
1.20 0.35
1.80 1.40
2.40 2.10
E-3
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FY 1978
FY 1979
3.10
0.35
0.30 2.80
0.35
Source: Adapted from Congressional Record:
17 October 1972, p. S 28547
This table demonstrates a standard pattern of expenditures to be applied to
each year's appropriation, as follows:
First Year 5 per cent
Second Year 20 per cent
Third Year 30 per cent
Fourth Year 40 per cent
Fifth Year 6 per cent
This presumes a slow start-up period for planning, design, bidding and awarding of
contracts, followed by a build-up to a peak of construction expenditures in the fourth year
and a sharp drop, representing the wind-up of projects. Given the exigencies of the cons-
truction industry which is subject to strikes and delays, it seems reasonable to anticipate
that the program may actually require a longer period to futly allow for inspections and
audits. Further, the White House has "impounded" almost half of the funds, with no in-
cation of when they may be made available.
Puerto Rico's Share of Federal Funds
PL 92-500 provided for initial allocations of Federal funds to states for fiscal
years 1973-74 on the basis of a national statement of need filed by EPA. That statement
was based on estimates filed by the various states as of 1971. It was reproduced in Table
III of House Public Works Committee Print Number 92-500, as cited in the law. The na-
tional need was stated as $14.5 billion; Puerto Rico's estimated need was $128.8 million,
or .008848 per cent of the national total. That ratio applied to the allocations for fiscal
years 1973 and 1974. A new ratio was established for FY 1975, based on revised estimates
of need filed in 1973.* Under this formula, Puerto Rico's share increased to .011574 per
cent.
Applying the ratios to the amounts authorized to be spent by Congress for the
first three fiscal years produces the following:
Fiscal year
1973
1974
1975
Total
Commonwealth Share
of Federal Grant
Authorized
$44,240,000
53,088,000
81,018,000
178,346,000
Local Matching
Funds Required
$14,746,600
17,696,000
27,006,000
59,448,600
Potential Total
Annual Program
$56,986,600
70,784,000
108,024,000
237,794,600
E-4
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It is anticipated that additional Federal appropriations will be made in sub-
sequent years to complete the current requirements of the program.
Federal Sources Other Than EPA
PL 92-500 sets a top limit 80 per cent on Federal assistance to water quality
management projects. With EPA authorized to provide grants amounting to 75 per cent of
the cost, there appears to be little opportunity for participation by other agencies. Ifi the
years since 1965, three other Federal agencies have authorized sewer construction grants
to Puerto Rico:
Department of Housing and Urban Development $1,017,000
Department of Commerce (EDA) 4,666,800
Department of Agriculture (FHA) 744,700
Total $6,428,500
Modification of the Federal government's assistance programs in the recent past
appears to have virtually eliminated the Department of Commerce participation in water
quality management. Under the proposed special revenue-sharing program, the catego-
rical grants of HUD will be allocated directly to municipal governments (which may use
them for sewer projects if they wish).* The passage of the Rural Development Act of
1972 holds some promise for communities with a population of less than 10,000, but
the precise allocations and procedures are not yet available; in any event only a relatively
small amount was appropriated for this program by the Congress.
Sources of Local Matching Funds
In addition to the analysis of the Federal funds that may be available over time,
five general sources of local matching funds have been examined. Four of them involve
the public sector, while the fifth relates to contributions and fees from private sector
activities.
A. Resources of the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority;
B. Resources of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico;
C. Resources of the several municipalities of the Commonwealth;
D. Resources that can be developed under special benefit districts, as autho-
rized under Commonwealth law; and
E. Resources that can be provided through mandatory payments or voluntary
contributions from the private sector, including the developers of residential
property and industrial establishments.
Each of the sources has been investigated, and an analysis has been made of the
conditions, current and future, that may affect their use in support of the long range
water quality management construction program.
E-5
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PUERTO RICO AQUEDUCT AND SEWER AUTHORITY (PRASA)
PRASA is a perpetual, autonomous public corporation created in 1945 to own,
develop and operate all the public water supply and sanitary sewer systems in Puerto Rico,
which previously had been the responsibility of the individual municipalities. In several
reqaects it is unique among public utility companies. It serves the entire Commonwealth,
including the islands of Vieques and Culebra, operating 60 urban water systems, 177 rural
systems and 76 sanitary sewage collection systems.
On June 30, 1973, the total PRASA water and sewer plant had a book value of
$454.3 millions, for which the ^capital was provided as shown in the accompanying table.
While PRASA operates and maintains the entire water and sewer plant through
its operating revenue, it is not required to finance the construction of all new water and
sewer facilities entirely from its own resources.
- The renewal and/or replacement of existing water and sewer lines and facilities
is funded directly from PRASA revenues.
- The urban water system improvements are funded through long term PRASA
borrowings secured by its operating revenues.
- The rural water systems are built with funds appropriated by the Commonwealth
legislature. Under a long-standing policy, the rural system, which does not produce
an economic return for PRASA but contributes to the public welfare by substantially
improving health conditions, is accepted as a public responsibility. In some situa-
tions, municipalities and residents of rural communities also contribute funds
and/or in-kind services for the rural aqueduct program. Further, the Commonwealth
compensates PRASA for any deficits incurred in the operation of the rural systems.
- The construction of sewage treatment plant and trunk sewers is funded entirely from
souroes outside PRASA, through Commonwealth legislative appropriations, Federal
grants, and contributions from municipalities, developers, and private industry.
- For the construction of laterals, PRASA makes a contribution. The balance of the
cost is provided by Federal grants, legislative appropriations, municipal contributions,
and (for newly developed areas) by the private developers.
PRASA Tariff Schedule
The tariffs of PRASA are required by the terms of its^trust agreement to produce
sufficient revenue to cover operating and maintenance expenses, depreciation, and debt ser-
vice. The present tariff was put into effect on June 1,1970, following the prescribed public
hearings. The previous rate structure had been in force since 1962.
The tariff provides for a sliding scale of charges for water service covering the first
10,000 cubic meters per 2 month billing period. Thereafter there is a flat rate per cubic
meter. The minimum monthly charge is $1.31 for residential customers and $2.27 for Jion-
E-6
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APPENDIX E
y nancial Plan cont'd.
VALUE OF PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority
As of 30 June 1973
($000,000)
Value of Plant and Equipment (Undepreciated)
Amount
Per Cent
Total
454.3
100
Water Systems
272.8
60
Sewer Systems
134.6
30
Common Utility Plant
17.5
4
Construction in Progress (Undifferentiated)
29.4
6
Sources of Capital
Total
454.3
100
Assets transferred to PRASA, 1945
17.8
4
Commonwealth appropriations
134.1
29
Developers of public and private
housing, industry, etc.
71.3
16
Municipal contributions and Federal grants
67.9
15
Net PRASA investment ( cash and borrowings)
163.2
36
Source: Annual Report FRASA 1973
E-7
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APF :NDIX e
Fii ancial Flan cont'd.
INDUSTRIAL CUSTOMERS PAYING SURCHARGES, 1973
District
Name
Surcharge Factor
Aguas Buenas
La Puritana
2.00
Arecibo
Hostex Corp.
1.44
Bayamon
Sherwin Williams
Empacadora de Bayamon
4.08
2.06
Caguas
Phytogen
Foodmatic Packing of P.R.
Matadero de Aguas Buenas
1.50
5.00
1.4
Carolina
Caribe Coco Inc.
1.61
Catano
P.R. Food Products
Jimenez del Valle
Losetas Bonanza
2.54
1.60
1.60
Guaynabo
Borden's of Puerto Rico
Superva Dairy Proda.
Eric's Swiss Prod.
3.58
3.00
2.61
Juncos
Puerto Rico Tanning
2.45
Levittown
Antilles Box Corp.
2.23
Manati
Matadero Municipal Manati
5.20
Patillas
Patillas Hosiery Mills
1.16
Puerto Nuevo
Ward Bakery
Ward Bakery
5.00
5.00
Rio Piedras
Edis Laundry
Matadero P.R.
Lecheria Tres Monjitas
Suiza Dairy Corp.
2.90
2.70
2.50
2.63
Rao Piedras
Coca Cola
Schnee's Swiss Specialties
Federal Meat Packing
Empacadora Food Inc.
Caribbean Food Prod.
VESPRA Products Inc.
E S B Corp.
Atlantic Sea Food
3.00
4.00
2.00
5.00
3.00
2.00
1.50
2.00
Puente: Sources
Electronic Service Center, PRASA
26 January 1973
E4
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residential customers. Charges for sewer service are two-thirds of the billing for water,
with a surcharge for industrial effluent with characteristics requiring additional treatment.
Many industries do not buy PRASA water and are not on the public sewer system. Island-
wide, only 32 industrial plants are paying a surcharge based on the quality of their effluent.
The present tariff for sewer service will have to be modified to reflect the continuing
expansion of this activity, as well as to satisfy the specific requirements of PL 92-500. A
further adjustment may be necessary under provisions of its permanent trust agreement to
permit PRASA to increase its bonding capacity if it is to assume full responsibility for the
sewer construction program. In view of the brief analysis of PRASA's operating described
in the following section of this study, it appears questionable whether the level of revenue
generated by the tariff now in effect will be sufficient to meet the costs of operating the
new regional waste water treatment plants for more than a few years, if costs of labor, ma-
terials and power continue to rise.
PRASA Operating Revenue and Cost
During the period 1963-73 (between rate changes, and eliminating the year in which
the new rates went into effect) water revenues increased at an average rate of about 9 per
cent per year, while sewer revenues increased by 11 per cent per year. During the same pe-
riod, operating and maintenance costs for the water system increased by almost 13 per cent
per year, and for the sewer system by 19 per cent per year, while common administrative and
accounting costs increased at the rate of almost 17 per cent per year.
During the past ten years, the number of water customers increased at the average
rate of 9.5 per cent per year, white sewer accounts were added at the average rate of 11.6
per cent per year. A comparison with the numbers of building permits issued by the Plan-
ning Board indicates that during recent years almost 90 per cent of all new housing units
were connected to sewer systems. However, the number of new housing units represents
only two thirds of the annual increase in water customers. This discrepancy may be account-
ed for by the continuing program of extending the rural water supply system to existing
houses in areas where there are presently no provisions for sewer service.
Current PRASA Construction Program
PRASA's program for expansion and improvement of urban water supply systems
and general service facilities will preempt all of its bonding capability for several years. As
of August 1972, it was estimated that for issues of revenue bonds, creating an additional
long term PRASA debt of $75 million, would have to be issued by July 1976. A major
portion of this debt will be required to complete the facilities required to distribute water
from the first state of the Toa Vaca Complex. In addition, it is proposed to expand filter
plant capacity at seven existing plants, to construct new reservoir capacity in 15 areas of
urban growth, and to build new transmission and/or distribution mains in 23 municipa-
lities. About 15 per cent of this new debt will be used for the construction of laterals to
expand local sewer systems throughout the Island. This activity is apart from the construc-
tion of regional collection and treatment facilities.
E-9
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PRASA OPERATING INCOME & FXPENSE ANALYSIS
(Thousands of dollars)
Fiscal
Year
Revenue
Percent
Change
Wnter Supply System
Sewoc Svstfcr*
Operating and
Maintenance
Percent
Change
Op. 4 M.i int.
od per cent
Revenue Percent Operating And r**rrenC Op. & Maint.
Change Maintenance Change as per cent
Costs
of
Revenue
Costs
of Revenui
1957
6,311.2
_
1,948.0
_
30.77
1,078.2
286.3
_
26.55
1958
6,809.7
+ 7.56
2,131.3
+ 9.41
31.30
1,176.7
+ 9.14
366.8
+28.12
31.17
1959
7,349.6
+ 7.91
2,367.4
+11.08
32.31
1,280.0
+ 8.78
427.4
+16.52
33.39
1960
B,046.1
+ 9.48
2,699.5
+14.03
33.55
1,427.5
+11.52
483.7
+13.17
33.38
1961
8,599.9
+ 6.86
3,26:.3
+20.85
37.93
1,597.6
+11.92
557.3
+15.22
34.38
1962
9,596.3
+11.59
3,481.2
+ 6.71
36.28
1,752.7
+ 9.71
742.7
+33.27
42.37
RATE CHANCE PRO>!ULCATED
KATE
CHANCE PROMULGATED
1963
12,070.0
+25.78
4,104.3
+17.90
34.00
2,167.4
+23.66
895.3
+20.55
*1.31
1964
13,643.0
+13.03
4,851.0
+18.19
35.56
2,473.1
+14.10
1,095.4
+2 2.35
44.29
1965
14,757.7
+ 8.17
5,486.7
+13.10
37.18
2,646.5
+ 7.01
1,236.7
+13.08
46.81
19C-6
15,763.0
+ 6.81
6,164.5
+12.35
39.11
2,894.0
+ 9.35
1,526.8
+2 3.26
52.76
1967
17,361.6
+10.14
6,170.2
+ 0.09
35.54
3,283.9
+13.42
1,696.0
+11.08
51.65
1963
18,013.3
+ 3.75
7,083.1
+14.80
39.32
3,408.1
+ 3.78
1,822.9
+ 7.48
53.49
1969
19,501.2
+ 8.26
8,116.0
+14.58
41.62
3,813.0
+11.88
2,093.7
+14.86
54.91
1970
21,875.1
+12.17
9,409.4
+15.94
43.01
4,791.4
+25.66
2,590.7
+23. 74
54.07
RATE CHANGE PK0MLILCATED
RATE
CHANCE PROMULGATED
1971
26,395.1
+20.66
11,348.8
+20.61
43.00
10,322.7
+115.44
3,338.6
+2B.87
32.34
1972
29,956.2
+13.49
13,636.0
+16.77
45.52
11,255.3
+ 9.03
3,832.2
+12.88
34.05
1973
32,253.1
+ 7.67
15,547.0
+14.01
48.20
12,240.6
+ 8.75
4,787.5
+24.93
39.11
Source:
Annual
Reports
Puerto
Rico Aqueducts and Sever Authority
ANALYSIS OF COMMON ACCOUNTING AND ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS
Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sever Authority
(Thousands of dollars)
Fiscal
Accounting and
Accounting and
Tool
Accounting
General
Aggregate
Annual
Administration
Total
Administration
Year
Revenue
Costs
Admtnistrntion
Accounting and
Change
as Per Cent of
Expense
as per cent of
Costs
Administration
Total Revenues
Total Expenses
1960
9,725
900.7
888.3
1,789.0
_
18.4
4,967
36.0
1961
10,434
1,009.1
991.4
2,000.5
+ 11.8
19.2
5,333
40.3
1962
11,544
1,517.2
540.1
2,057.3
+ 2.8
17.8
6,276
32.8
1963
14,505
1,802.1
1,134.7
2,936.8
+ 42.7
20.2
7,911
37.1
1964
16,357
2,117.1
1.332.B
3,449.9
+ 17.5
21.1
9,257
37.3
1965
17,663
2,372.5
1,279.3
3,651.8
+ 5.8
20.7
10,392
35.1
1966
19,017
2,804.1
1,324.2
4,128.3
+ 13.0
21.7
11,615
35.5
1967
21,110
3,216.5
2,013.9
5,230.4
+ 26.7
24.8
12,889
40.6
1963
22,010
3,263.1
2,051.0
5,314.1
+ 1.6
24.1
13,325
39.9
1969
24,010
3,697.1
2,296.4
5,993.5
+ 12.8
25.0
15,935
37.6
1970
27,488
4,397.2
2,700.4
7,097.6
+ 18.4
25.8
18,843
37.7
1971
35,524
5,778.3
3,706.9
9,485.2
+ 33.6
26.7
24,003
39.5
1972
41,893
6,728.8
4,023.3
10,752.3
+ 13.3
25.7
27,866
38.6
1973
45,331
8,063.5
4,489.4
12,552.9
+ 16.7
27.7
32,524
38.6
Source:
Annual
Reports
Puerto
Rico Aqueducts
and Sever Authority
E-10
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PRASA's charter assigns to it full responsibility for sewer arid water services
in Puerto Rtco. It is logical to expect that it should fund the water quality manage-
ment program. To accomplish this, a reorientation of Commonwealth policy is essen-
tial. In addition to the major tariff revision required by PL 92-500 for sewer operations,
additional revenue will have to be generated to meet debt service needs.
Summary
This report cannot investigate the details of the rate structure adjustment required
for operations and debt service. PRASA has the necessary capability to make such studies.
For the present purpose, it is considered sufficient to point up the fact that PRASA has
statutory responsibility and authority adequate to satisfy the requirement of the Federal
Statute with regard to design, construction and operation of the island-wide system. It is
reasonable to expect it to exercise full fiscal responsibility as well.
COMMONWEALTH FUNDS
Introduction
Major public construction programs are authorized by the Legislative Assembly
through the General Fund and Special Funds. Special Fund activities are financed from
revenues that are earmarked for specific purposes. An example is the tax levied on hotel
rooms costing more than $10 per day, which is assigned to the Recreation Development
Company for the construction of major public recreation facilities. The Special Funds can
be used for direct investment or to pay the debt service on bond issues for the same purposes.
The balance of the Commonwealth's revenue goes into the General Fund which may
be budgeted for operations as well as capital improvements; the debt service for bond issues
is included with the operating budget. Although the actual dollar amounts budgeted for
capital improvements from both the General Fund and the Special Fund have been increasing,
they represent a gradually diminishing percentage of the budget. As shown in the accom-
panying table, the actual local cash invested in capital programs during the ten year period
represents only 18 per cent of the total; the balance has come from Federal grants (15 per
cent) and bond issues (67 per cent). With the exception of PRASA, the several public cor-
porations possessing individual revenue sources cover their own construction programs, in-
cluding the debt service on their bond issues. The majority of public agencies, however,
are dependent on the General Fund capital program to satisfy their needs.
A review of investment in waste water collection and treatment facilities against
the total investment in public permanent improvements indicates that until very recently
sewage systems were accorded a low priority. Although the funding level has almost doubled
in recent years, sewer facilities still account for a relatively small proportion of public expen-
ditures.
E-11
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INVESTMENT IN PUBLIC I IMPROVEMENTS
Fiscal Years 1951-1973, Inclusive
(Millions of Dollars)
Totals Construction Equipment
Fiscal Grand Muni- Public Muni- Public Muni- Public
Year Total State cipal Corp. Total State cipal Corp. Total State cipal Corp.
To tals
4,940
1,633
353
2,954
4,469
1,380
317
2,772
471
253
36
182
1951
51
19
2
30
43
16
2
25
8
3
-
5
1952
73
19
3
51
65
16
3
46
8
3
-
5
1953
85
29
3
53
71
25
3
43
14
4
-
10
1954
75
28
3
44
65
24
3
38
10
4
-
6
1955
73
24
3
46
62
20
3
39
11
4
—
7
1956
68
25
4
39
59
21
4
34
9
4
-
5
1957
97
29
6
62
82
24
5
53
15
5
1
9
1958
102
27
5
70
86
22
4
60
16
5
1
10
1959
115
30
9
76
94
25
8
61
21
5
1
15
1960
130
34
16
80
112
29
15
68
18
5
1
12
1951
132
36
15
81
115
30
14
71
17
6
1
10
1962
139
34
20
85
125
29
19
77
14
5
1
8
1963
140
43
22
75
125
37
21
67
15
6
1
8
1964
173
50
32
96
161
42
29
90
17
8
3
6
1965
203
58
30
115
185
46
28
111
18
12
2
4
1966
204
60
19
125
180
43
16
121
24
17
3
4
1967
264
79
20
165
236
59
17
160
28
20
3
5
1958
305
92
20
193
275
70
17
188
30
22
3
5
1969
344
104
24
216
315
85
22
208
29
19
2
8
1970
408
163
19
226
374
140
16
218
34
23
3
8
1971
499
174
24
301
462
148
21
293
37
26
3
8
1972
643
237
25
381
603
214
22
367
40
23
3
14
1973
612
239
29
344
574
215
25
334
38
24
4
10
Source: Annual Economic Report to the Governor, Puerto Rico Planning Board
E-12
-------
CWtTAI. IBYESimi RECORD
tbVtatlVI
To 30 June 197]
(90(30)
",CJl Water Sorvlca 5«wr >«rvit»
Teat
total
^rban Area
Rurnl Area
HeCro Aret
El»vh«T«
£&S£
7,061.2
Aggregate
306,466.1
130,£77.4
80,542.6
37,666.7
51,767.2
Thru 1951
19,298.6
nana
S-,446.2
-
<^«7.»
14,(1,1
1952
1,229.2
454.1
337.4
„
237.2
,1
m:i
3,743,7
•,800.8
72S-S
217.1
1934
10,946.6
9,742.9
26?.5
«•
933.9
.5
1955
7,867.4
6,062.6
98 J. 3
360.4
460.6
.3
1956
3,646.1
1,816.1
1.6U-3
»
179.1
M.O
1957
6,346.1
3,290.6
1,895.9
627-5
384.6
147,3
1918
11,460.0
3vm.4
1,4.10.7
5.&S0.T
Wl.t
1959
14,163.5
6,816.1
1,717.8
4,252-1
274.0
103.5
1960
6,(61.2
1,888.4
3,182.5
152.8
1,198.7
36.8
1961
7,023.6
2.04B.4
2,307.2
1,190-8
1,179.3
99.T
1961
11,756.6
2,822.9
3,016.8
4,149-2
2,664.9
101.9
1963
14,708.6
4,956.6
3,017.9
5,489-3
1,114.2
155.6
1964
IB,757.4
9,858.9
5,499.8
1,590-9
1,636.8
171.0
1965
9,210.2
3,394,5
2,966.4
1,597-3
924.2
327.8
1966
13,581.8
4V097.7
1,510-1
i.m-i
1W.1
1967
18,314.4
6,698.7
4,151.0
4,880-7
2.006.9
777.1
1968
13,277.6
4,771.3
6.315-6
1,891-8
1,793.5
505.4
1969
19,873.4
8,609.2
7,627.4
907-9
2,056.0
472.9
1970
24,256.7
9,710.0
7,159.2
1,871-2
4,362.3
1,154.0
1971
16.093.5
4.17Z.0
4,873.0
90S-2
5,727.4
414.9
1972
23,611.4
*4,920.2
6,461.2
571-D
4,444.8
661.3
1973
22,414.1
5,419.3
Jv547.3
-
10,575.1
891.2
Jourcoi Unpublished special raporf from Bureau of Public Worlea ProgruXninCi Manning Board.
APPENDIX E
financial Plan cont'd,
JBC^MBJEEC !!Stl3 3r PLF9C.K CflFIOiL TSffiKfr
bj rwcinsM «:c- semi cr ;u.r.9
Plaei.1 S'-iu 1S TC -
(IUUki : f lollan)
Function
Total
Central
Fund
Federal
Tunde-
Pirtlle
CcrpjioT
T\mte
DttXI
A^crvnate
3.112.7
ess. 1
ijgJ
1,933 A
22Jt
Adulnletratlon
109.J
J.9
-
103.6
-
Agricultural Develop.
Zl.i
ia.T
7.7
~
,7
CMwretal Development
33.e
3.1
4.7
86.0
-
electrification
591. i
•s
-
588.3
8,7
Health
306.0
131.fi
77.1
ttf.7
1*>
Boa*lag
32?.6
90.1
313.6
116.6
t,f
Industrial ievelojment
2&.9
J7-J
1.9
aaj-7
-
land Reurve
120.1
».e
-
67.lt
-
Protection Service*
106.8
6U.0
fl.a
31.8
2.2
Pufcllc Education
831.6
135.6
41.8
J* .2
-
*acreation
27.9
11.6
6.9
8.0
1>
(octal Welfare
#.7
27.«
5.fc
-
J*
Tr*n»l>ort*tlc>r,
TWr.'a
W.T
71.6
6eo.i
h«r ByaUn* 114.1 37,0 54,9 6.fc 13.6
Par cent of Hoalth JT ?8 Tl
Per cont of Total 3.6 6.0 10,t
louVMi Pour XtM tv-wrM* tttQQria. ft? VliwAwj itnt
E-13
loWl (hnbars nay no^
-------
During the period covered by fiscal years 1951 through 1973, a grand total of
$4.9 billion was invested in construction and equipment by the agencies of the Common-
wealth government, by the public corporations, and by the several municipalities. PRASA
invested $306 million, of which $88 million (28 per cent) was for sewer systems. That
amount represents less than 2 per cent of the total public investment for all purposes.
A review of the recommended levels of public capital investment for the five
fiscal years ending 30 June 1974 indicates an increase both in the amount and the per-
centage of public expenditures for sewer facilities. Of the total of $3.1 billion recommen-
ded by the Planning Board, $112 million (3.6 per cent) was designated for sewage collec-
tion and treatment systems. In terms of the sources of funds, that level of expenditure
involves 6 per cent of the recommended legislative appropriations from the General Fund
and more than 10 per cent of the anticipated Federal funds to be made available.
Competition for Public Funds
The serious competition for public capital funds is demonstrated by the history of
the capital program for fiscal year 1974. A total of $474 million in General Fund appro-
priation was requested by the government agencies and public corporations. This included
$13.5 million for water quality control projects. The total General Fund allocation that
was recommended by the Planning Board and the Bureau of the Budget was $156 million,
of which $5 million was for the sewer program. In addition, it was recommended that
PRASA be authorized to obligate another $6 million, in keeping with the 1971 agreement
of the Commonwealth to make available $11 million a year for the water quality control
program.
From the table, it may be observed that the highest proportion of the amount re-
quested was allotted to education. Protection services, agricultural development, and
social welfare appear to have had the second priority, while the land reserve, health and
recreation were in the third rank. The amount requested for sewers amounted to 2.85
per cent of the total, while the actual funds recommended were 3.19 per cent of the
total recommended. Actually, while only 37 per cent of the amount requested was re-
commended for funding, when the amount authorized to be obligated by PRASA is
added, 81 per cent of the amount requested was made available.
Nonetheless, the fact that the recommended overall capital program amounted to
only one-third of the amount requested is an indication of current limitations on appropria-
tions from the General Fund. It appears to be desirable that future requests for capital funds
for water quality management should be met from other sources and that the General Fund
appropriation for that purpose should be kept to a minimum.
CONNECTION FEES
It is a long-established policy of the Commonwealth to minimize the financial
burden carried by individuals. Under this policy, the Planning Board does not collect any
fees for building permits or other services. Permits are obtained upon submission of a
E-14
-------
RECOMMENDED LEVEIES OF PUBLIC CAPITAL INVESTMENT
IN SEWER SYSTEMS*
Fiscal Years 1968-1974
($000)
cal Year
Total
General
Fund
Federal
Grants
PRASA
Funds
Other
Funds
1968
11,014
3,647
1,698
-
5,669
1969
12,860
4,900
4,225
935
2,800
1970
15,649
7,220
7,^91
-
938
1971
17,365
7,585
7,^35
1,000
1,345
1972
8,067
3,667
3,000
1,000
400
1973
21,761
5,000
12,^92
2,000
2,269
197U
25,>+27
5,000
18,594
1,500
333
* Including local collectors covered "by PRA3A funds and Other funds
Source: Four Year Economic Programs of the Planning Board
E-15
-------
ALLOCATIONS FRGM THE GENERAL FUND FOR
capital investment fiscal year 197U
Requested
Recornms
mded
Per Cent
Function
$ (000) Per Gent
$ (000)
Per Cent
Recommended
Aggregate
*+73.772
100.0
>56|??3,..
100.0
33.0
Administration
!+,296
.9
1,176
.8
27.1+
Agricultural Dev.
6,693
1.1+
2,761+
1.8
1+1.3
Commercial Dev.
12,000
2.5
-
0.0
0.0
Electrification
-
-
500
• 3
NA
Health
109,1+73
23.1
37,100
23.7
31+.0
Housing
105,337
22.2
29,01+0
18.5
27.5
Industrial Dev.
35,1+00
7.5
8,000
5.1
22.6
Land Reserve
13,500
2.9
5,000
3.2
37-0
Protection Services
43,103
9-1
17,827
11. h
hi. 5
Public Education
6^,9^5
13-7
39,5»+7
25.2
61.0
Becreation
1^,351
3.0
4,869
3.1
3!+.o
Social Welfare
21,9*+6
1+.6
8,770
5.6
U0.1
Transportation
35,376
7.5
2,000
1.3
5.7
Other
7,350
1.6
-
0.0
0.0
Source: Puerto Rice Plannin-3 Board
Bureau of Resources
E-16
-------
receipt from the Treasury for payment of premiums to the State Insurance Fund and to
the funds of the Architects, Engineers and Surveyors Association.
In like manner, PRASA does not collect a standard fee per unit for sewer connec-
tions, which could be dedicated to the construction of intercepting sewers and treatment
plants. It is understood that the current practice of PRASA is to arrive at an amicable
agreement with individual dvelopers under which they will contribute funds toward the
construction of a link from their project to the nearest sewer main. The legislature is now
considering a measure that will authorize PRASA to collect a standard fee for water and
sewer connections to new urbanizations. Although such a fee would be reflected in the
purchase price of a house, it is reasonable to except the property owner to pay for the
benefits of sewer service.
However, considering the amount of money that can be raised from reasonaore
connection fees (At $100 per house, the approximately 25,000 use permits issued during
FY 1973 would produce $2,500,000) this source would not be adequate, alone, to fund
the necessary construction program, provided the level of construction activity continues
at such a rate.
REPAYMENT OF CONSTRUCTION COSTS BY INDUSTRIAL USERS
PL 92-500 requires that industrial users of waste water treatment facilities repay
a share of the Federal grant in proportion to the service they receive from the system. The
local operating agency (PRASA) may retain 50 per cent of the annual industrial payments,
up to an equivalent of the local share, for replacement or expansion of the system. EPA
guidelines covering industrial repayment indicate that these costs may be repaid over a pe-
riod of up to 20 years. In view of the fact that some large industrial establishments may
be required to build their own treatment plants if they can not be served by a public system,
this is the equivalent of an interest-free long term loan for that purpose..
The treatment plants now under construction do not fall under PL 92-500. The
systems affected by the new law are not yet in construction, and are not expected to be in
operation for at least two years. Therefore it will very likely be in fiscal year 1976 that the
initial repayments will be received, for the plants at Aguadilla, Arecibo, and Caguas. In the
interim, the precise details of the repayment system must be worked out.
Upon completion of the system, when final costs are known, it will be possible to
calculate proportions of of the plant and of individual segments of the collectors and
interceptors. This is not feasible at present except in a very general way. For purposes
of illustration, an analysis was made of a simple hypothetical situation, assuming that 15
per cent of the total volume is from industrial plants, and that they are served by a seg-
ment of the collection system that involves 10 per cent of the total cost of the interceptor
system. Over the allowable 20-year period, PRASA may collect about $1,000,000 for
plant expansion and renovation, as shown on the accompanying calculation.
E-17
-------
appendix e
Financial Plan cont'd.
Example of Industrial Repayment - Hypothetical Regional Treatment System
1. Costs: Plant $ 7,400,000 (Federal share $ 5,550,000)
Interceptors 15,750,000 (Federal share 11,812,500)
2. Industrial Use:
Plant 15% x $5,550,000 - $ 832,500
Interceptors 10% x 11,812,500 « 1,181,250
Total Industrial Repayment ¦ $2,013,750
3. Annual repayment by industries, 20 years starting FY 1977
2,013,750 x
'2Q ' - $100,667.50
4. Commonwealth share of repayment
100,667.50 x 20 - $ 1,006,675
2
E-18
-------
This repayment of construction costs is entirely apart from operating and main-
tenance charges. Since PL 92-500 requires that all industrial users must repay a propor
tional share of construction costs, this alone will require the establishment of a collection
and accounting system for industrial customers.
SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICTS
The cost of a public capital improvement is frequently recaptured through a special
tax, or assessment, levied against the properties that receive direct benefits from the improve-
ment. The assessment may be fixed, as a specific amount per household, or variable, in pro
portion to the assessed value of the affected property. In most instances, the jurisdiction pro-
viding the improvement will pay the cost from current revenues or from borrowings, and wilt
recapture the cost over a period of several years. Taxpayers able to pay their assessment in
a single lump sum may do so, sometimes at a serving.
Special assessment districts are permitted in Puerto Rico, The pertinent statute (21
LPRA 1476) was enacted in 1928, at a time when local governments carried the major burden
of providing services, and when such devices were very popular on the continent. The law has
been reenactedand modified several times. It permits municipalities to create special assess
ment districts upon petition of the municipal government, other public agencies, or property
owner. Public hearings must be held, the municipal assembly must adopt the necessary ordi-
nances, and the special district then must be approved by the Governor Although many of the
municipal responsibilities were transferred to the state level or to public coportations, the sta-
tute was never modified to reflect the changes. Nor were statutes enacted to enable
other public agencies to use the special assessment device. Thus, as the situation now
exists, various agencies may request that special benefit districts be created, but the
municipalities must take whatever action is necessary.
At the present time, there are only three special assessment districts in Puerto Rico,
all in the San Juan area: Club Manor, San Francisco, and Santa MarTa. The three disctricts
were created to provide sewer connections in high-value residential areas. All were created
by special legislation, since the statute does not provide for sharing the cost. In these instan-
ces the costs were shared among the Federal government, PR ASA, the municipal government,
and the residents. The Federal government provided a grant amounting to 30 per cent of the
cost, and the balance was divided equally among the other three participants.
Use of the special assessment district device to finance the Commwealth share of the
wastewater treatment plant construction program appears reasonable. However, several fac-
tors must be considered. The first is how the project costs are to be distributed. One option
is to divide the total cost of the plant and interceptors among the municipios involved, on the
basis of population served. A second option is to divide only the cost of the treatment plant
among all the municipios of population served and to charge the cost of the intercepting sewers
to the individual municipios served by each sewer line. The first would produce a simple rate
calculation to be applied to alt the properties affected, whereas the latter would require diffe-
rent rates to be calculated for each municipio involved.
E-19
-------
A second factor to be considered is the division of the costs among property
owners. The basic law requires the cost to be apportioned to the value of the property
One variant upon this might have the cost divided equally among all the households to
be connected, regardless of their value. Another variant might have the charges against
the individual house based on the number of plumbing fixtures, as in some continental
nties
A third factor to consider is whether the populace within the special district should
pay for excess capacity in the trunk lines and the treatment plants whose designs are based
on long range need. One possibility seems to be the division of total cost among present
population, with all new housing units to contribute an equal amount per dwelling as a
connection fee, which would ^»e added to the PR ASA building fund and used to match
Federal grants.
Regardless of the method used for apportioning cost, the basic advantage of the
special district devices is that the municipalities (or the Commonwealth) can sell bonds
based on the assessed value of property within the special district without affecting local
borrowing margins or general property tax rates.
Mr. Tuggle suggests that the statute might be modified to permit government agen
cies other than municipalities to finance projects through special benefit districts. As one
approach, he recommends that a single agency be given the basic discretion concerning the
use of the special district device, white others would be able to use the funds raised in this
manner for their construction projects. With respect to sewer systems and other projects
affecting the environment, this approach would designate the Environmental Quality Board
or the Department of Natural Resources as the agency which would determine the necessity
for a project, the socioeconomic factors in the area involved, the feasibility of special dis-
trict financing from various sources, and the proportion to be paid by each source. That
agency would also be responsible for holding the required public hearings. Another agency,
or agencies (such as PRASA). would be authorized to carry on the actual construction work.
This seems to be a difficult procedure to establish, since the Board and the Dapartment normally
are not involved in financing of construction projects.
On the other hand, the Planning Board has a Bureau of Resources, which is in a posi
tion to review all sources of funds, to assemble the socioeconomic information about an affec
ted area, and to make determinations about the method of financing. The Board also has a
staff organized to conduct public hearings, and is in a better position, with regard to property
maps, assessment rolls, and similar data, to delineate the boundaries of a proposed district.
Under Section 12 of Law ? 13, as amended, the Board has the power to create special districts
for project planning. It is therefore reasonable to consider that an appropriate statute oould
be enacted specifically authorizing the Planning Board to create special assessment districts.
Under such authorization, the following procedure might be followed:
1. Any agency, when submitting its capital program recommendations, may indi-
cate special district financing among the potential sources of funds.
E-20
-------
2. The Bureau of Resources, in its review of projects and in making its recom-
mendations for the Four Year Economic Program, may indicate the possibility
of special district financing for specific projects, subject to appropriate analysis
and procedures.
3. Subsequently, when notified by the responsible agency that a project so recom-
mended has advanced to the state where preliminary cost estimates are available,
the Board shall review the situation in the area proposed to be included in the
special district, shall make a preliminary delineation of the properties to be in-
cluded and shall hold public hearings on the proposal in the municipio or muni-
cipios affected.
4. The Board may then adopt a resolution and map indicating the purpose and
extent of the district and the amount of money to be levied against it.
5. The Board's resolution and map would be filed with the Register of Property
and with the Bureau of Real Property Taxes of the Department of the Treasury
in order to establish a lien against the properties involved.
6. The Government Development Bank may then issue bonds in the amount neces-
sary to finance the project, and turn the proceeds over to the agency responsible
for construction.
General Recommendations
Five sources of local matching fund sources have been examined producing the follow-
ing conclusions:
1. PR ASA has the statutory powers to assume responsibility for construction and
operation of the system. However, PRASA's existent tariff structure cannot
support the necessary funding program.
2. A major PRASA tariff adjustment must be initiated to comply with PL 92-500.
It should take into account the funding requirements of the water quality manage-
ment program.
3. The practice of relying on the Commonwealth General Fund for the local mat-
ching share of sewer construction costs should be discontinued.
4. PRASA should institutionalize the payment of a connection fee for new cons-
truction.
5. PRASA must establish a special billing and accounting procedure for the collec-
tion of industrial payments for construction, as required by the Federal law.
6. Special assessment districts should be considered as alternatives in selected situa-
tions where property owners are able to pay for benefits received.
E-21
-------
Legislative action will be required to modify the current statutes relating to
special assessment districts to provide for sharing the costs with contributors
other than property owners.
More dstailed analysis of the PR ASA financial situation is required to establish
the basis for new tariffs required for operation, maintenance and debt service.
E-22
-------
APPENDIX F:
PUBLIC HEARING STATEMENT
-------
COMMONWEALTH OF PUERTO RICO
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY BOARD
IN RE: ; CASE NUMBER:
COMPREHENSIVE WATER ; ON:
QUALITY MANAGEMENT PLAN
PUBLIC HEARINGS
HEARING EXAMINERS REPORT
To consider the aforesaid plan and in compliance with provisions of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act (FWPCA) (1), 1972 Amendments, and of Article 15 of ths
Law Number 9 of June 18, 1970, as amended, the Environmental Quality Board called
for Public Hearings to be held in its hearing room. The said Public Hearings were
announced to the general public by publication in the Newspaper El Mundo on the
7th day of January, 1974, and in the Newspaper El Nuevo Dfa and San Juan Star,
on the 15th day of January, 1974.
In compliance with the provisions of Article 14 of the Law No. 9, already mentioned,
a panel of examining officials was named which was composed of Eng. MinSs Papadakis,
Mr. Jos6 Auger, and Eng. Justo E. Varela Dieppa. These examiners held Public Hearings on
the 7th and 8th days of February, 1974 in the Environmental Quality Board Hearing Room.
Citizens interested in the plan under consideration appeared before the Hearings, as well as
representatives from industries, agencies and public corporations.
Among those who appeared and testified were Dr. Modesto Iriarte Jr., Assistant Exe-
cutive Director for Planning, Studies and Electrical Construction of the Water Resources
Authority, representing the Executive Director of the said public corporation; Mr. Rudolph
W. Oeben, representing the Industrial Association; and Mr. Jos6 Francisco Gfimez, as a pri-
vate citizen.
As well as the indicated testimonies, we, the examiners who have submitted this report,
have read the Comprehensive Water Quality Management Plan for Puerto Rico, and the testimo-
nies of PRWRA, and the Industrial Association, and have consulted with EQB's technical staff.
(1) 33 USC 1251 et. seq.
F-1
-------
After analyzing all the evidence submitted and after studying the pertinent legal
provisions, we can state the following:
FINDINGS OF FACT
1. The Comprehensive Water Quality Management Plan has as short and long term
objectives, the following:
a. To ascertain that the standards and water quality implementation plans achieve
the established goals for this resource.
b. To maximize the cost- effectiveness of the expenses incurred for diminishing
pollution, and other activities directed towards achieving water quality goals; and
c. To improve and maintain the established water quality standards by means of perio-
dic revisions of the adopted plans.
2. It is imperative that Puerto Rico maintain a high water quality level for the better use
and enjoyment of this resource, as well as complying with the pertinent legal provisions. (2)
3. The Aqueducts and Sewer Authority was responsible for the Plan until July 1, 1971.
At this date this responsibility was transferred to the Environmental Quality Board.
4. To carry out those goals and objectives, the Plan established a strategy at local level
for the handling and administration of this resource. Inventory and analysis of the bodies of
water was carried out, projections were made of future consumption/and the capacity of the
existing wastewater treatment plants was evaluated for the handling of actual and future dis-
charges.
The plan formulates alternative means of accomodating the projected discharges and the
fitting of these alternatives in relation to water quality standards and the costs attached to these.
In each case, the best alternative is selected and a program is prepared based on priorities to carry
out the strategy. An evaluation of the means to finance the program are made, and a sampling
program and a revision plan are recommended.
5. The greater part of the bodies of water in Puerto Rico are in violation of the existing
water quality standards in various degrees.
6. Local water quality problems arise from various factors among these are the high popu-
lation density, industrial growth, and physical and natural conditions.
7. Available data of the water quality in the rivers of Puerto Rico shows that:
a. 75 per cent of the rivers violate the existing Dissolved Oxygen (DO) standard;
(2) Sec. 101.FWPCA, 33USC 1251
F-2
-------
b. 64 per cent violate the existing Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5) standard;
and
c. 86 per cent violate the existing total coliform standard.
Coastal waters are found to be in similar violations of 65 per cent, 50 per cent and
80 per cent, respectively.
8. Existing wastewater treatment systems are highly inadequate. With rare exceptions,
these plants, even the newest ones, will be overloaded in 1980. Still, 16 per cent of the popu-
lation uses individual septic tanks, and 45 per cent use latrines or discharge illegally to the sani-'
tary and storm sewer system. Only 55 per cent of the industries and 43 per cent of the busi-
nesses are connected to the publicly owned sewer system. Most of the big industrial concerns
dispose of their sanitary wastes individually, and inadequately.
9. The Puerto Rico Industrial Association and the Water Resources Authority backed
the proposed plan, as well as certain observations and criticisms directed towards its improve-
ment.
10. The Water Resources Authority alleges that complying with the strategy designated
in Section III-9F of the Plan, for the area of Guayanilla, that is, connecting the sanitary discharge
of the South Coast Plant to that municipality's sanitary sewer, will cost them more than $500,000
because the plant is already below the level of the area.
11. It is officially known that this type of discharge in the southern region of Puerto Rico
may pollute the aquifers, the only generally available sources of potable water in that region.
FINDINGS OF LAW
1. Any action or suggestion that we recommend must be within the limits imposed by
Law No. 9 of June 18, 1970 (Public Policy Environmental Law) (3) and the federal law, known
as the Federal WAter Pollution Control Act approved in 1972.
2. The Comprehensive Water Quality Management Plan Arises from the provisions of the
old federal Law for the Control of Water Pollution, Section 3, sub-section C, which later became
section 102 Qf the 1972 Amendments to said Law. The Plan also complies with the provi-
sions of Section 303
-------
CONDITIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
1. It must be made clear by the Plan the responsibilities of the Aqueduct and
Sewer Authority and the Environmental Quality Board, regarding the implementation of
the strategy outlined in said Plan.
2. The estimated per capita consumption for future years must be carefully revised.
3. It must be considered whether it is necessary that certain industries be required
to comply with the discharge limitations imposed by the Federal Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA), and as well complying with the Plan, which requires that facilities be provided,
for discharging their effluents by means of "ocean outfalls".
ly, 1974.
y\±
Planning Consultant
(5) 33 use 1252
(B) 33 use 1313 |e)
(7) Article 14 (hi and 15
F-4
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PAGE NOT
AVAILABLE
DIGITALLY
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APPENDIX H: GLOSSARY AND ABBREVIATIONS
-------
APPENDIX H
GLOSSARY AND ABBREVIATIONS
A g^MMry and fist of abbreviations is provided to assist the reader in understanding
certain technical terras and abbreviations utilized in the text. In general, the glossary
reflects term meaning and usage presented in "Glossary-Water and Wastewater Control
Engineering" prepared jointly in 1969 by an editorial board representing the
American Public Health Association, American Society of Civil Engineers, American
Water Works Association, and the Water Pollution Control Federation. The following
glossary includes only selected terms having particular significance for this report.
GLOSSARY
Carbon particles possessing a high
adsorplive capacity and used to remove
organic chemicals from secondary
effluents.
A .biological wastewater treatment process
in which a mistHre of wastewater and
activated slitdgc is u^itali-d and aerated.
The activated sludge is subsequently
Separated front the treated wastewater
(mixed liquor) by sedimentation and
wasted or returned to the process as
needed.
Primitive plants, single or multi-celled,
usually aquatic, and capable of elaborating
their foodstuffs by photosynthesis.
fiiOfhemical Oxygen A standard test of a wastewater or
Demand receiving water to determine the quantity
of dissolved oxygen used by bacteria in the
oxidation of carbonaceous and
nitrogenous matter prese' \ The BOD is a
measure of the quantity of decomposable
organic matter present. The 5-dtay, 20°C
Activated Carbon
Activated Sludge
Process
Al*
ae
H-t
-------
Branch Sewer
Chemical Oxygen
Demand
Chlorides
Coliform Bacteria
Combined ^t'wer
Drv-Weather Flow
) xtraneous Flow
Eutrophii ation
BOD is the determination of the loss of
dissolved oxygen in a sample kept at 20°C
over a 5-day period, represents only the
carbonaceous oxygen demand and is the
test made unless otherwise noted.
A sewer which receives sewage from lateral
sewers and discharges into a main or trunk
sewer.
A standard test of a wastewater or
receiving water to determine the amount
of oxygen consumed by organic and
inorganic matter present. It does not
necessarily correlate with the biochemical
oxygen demand but may correlate to
ultimate carbonaceous BOD for
wastewaters containing only sanitary
sewage.
Chemical compounds of chlorine used as
an index of the presence of wastewater in
sources of water supply.
\ total group of bacteria which
predominanly inhabit the intestines of
warm-blooded animals, including man,
but which are also found elsewhere. The
presence of these bacteria is considered to
be indicative of the possible presence of
pathogenic bacteria.
A sewer receiving both wastewater and
storm or surface water. '
The flow in a sewer equal to the sum of
flows of sanitary sewage, infiltratiop and
industrial wastewater occurring during dry
weather, with no storm or surface water
included.
(See Infiltration)
An increase in the nutrient content of
water in a lake or reservoir referred to as
accelerated aging. This condition is
indicated by a large quantity of algae and
aquatic vegetation.
H-2
-------
Fecal Coliforms
Force Main
Industrial Wastewater
Infiltration
Intercepting Sewer;
Interceptor
Joint Use
Lateral Sewer
MPN
Nutrients
Outfall Sewer
Overflow
Coliform bacteria associated specifically
with fecal excreta from warm-blooded
animals, including man and indicative of
the possible presence of pathogenic enteric
organisms.
A pressure pipe joining the pumn
discharge at a pumping station wi.h a
point of gravity flow.
The liquid wastes from industrial
processes, as distinct from sanitary sewage.
The quantity of extraneous or unwanted
flow which enters a sewer through
defective joints, breaks, or porous pipe
and manholes.
A sewer which receives sewage (dry-
weather flow) from main or trunk sewers
for conveyance to treatment facilities.
The utilization of common intercepting
sewer and sewage treatment plant by two
or more municipalities and/or industries.
A sewer whichdischarges into a branch or
other sewer and which has onlv building
sewers tributary to it.
The most probable number of coliform
bacteria present in a given volume
(generally 100 ml) of a liquid sample, as
measured by the techniques given in
"Standard MethodsJor the Examination of
Water and Wastewater," latest edition.
Chemicals essential to the metabolism of
living organisms. Nitrogen and'phosphates
are nutrients commonly associated with
eutrophication of lakes and reservoirs.
A sewer which receives sewage from a
collecting system or from a treatment
plant and carries it to a point of final
discharge.
(1) The occurrence of discharge of excess
sewage from a sanitary sewer, or or mixed
sewage and storm flow from a combined
sewer directly into receiving waters.
H-3
-------
Pathogens
pH
Regional P(an
Sanitary- Sewer
Sanitary Sewage
Separate System
Sewage
Sewage Treatment Plant
Sewer
Sewerage
(or sewerage works, or sewerage Kyxtem)
(2)The wastewater thus discharged (3) The
structure through which excess wastewater
is discharged, such as over a weir.
Disease-producing bacteria or viruses.
The logarithm of the reciprocal of the
concentration of hydrogen ions in grams
per liter of solution. (pH is a measure of
the intensity of the acidity or alkalinity of
a solution. A pH value less than 7.0
indicates acidity, and above 7.0 indicates
alkalinity.)
The system of proposed joint use
intercepting sewers and sewage treatment
facilities to serve various watersheds
within the North Central Texas Region.
Construction, operation and maintenance
and financing recommendations are
included.
A sewer intended to carry only sanitary
sewage and industrial wastes, but usually
carrying some extraneous flows
(mfihculion).
The liquid wastes from the domestic and
sanitary conveniences of a dwelling,
commercial building, public building,
factory or institution.
A system of sewers and drains in which
sanitary sewage and storm water are
earthed in different conduits.
Th£ spent water of a community
(wastewater). \n\ combination of sanitary
sewage, infiltration, and i/idustrial
wastewater.
Any arrangement of equipment and
structures for the treatment and disposal
of sewage or wastewau r.
A pipe or conduit for carrying sewage and
otH«r waste liquids.
All facilities for collecting sewage, or
wastewater, and discharging it to an outlet
or to treatment works.
H-4
-------
Siphon Chamber
Siphon (inverted siphon)
Storm Drain
Sulfates
Suspended Solids
Trunk Sewer
Wastewater
Watershed
W«fc- Weather Flow
A chamber at the entrance or exit of an
inverted sewage siphon.
A sewer conduit depressed below the
hydraulic grade line to pass beneath an
obstacle (such as a river).
A drain or sewer designed to convey storm
water runoff, surface water and drainage,
and from which sanitary sewage and
industrial wastewater are intended to be
excluded.
Chemical compounds of sulfur which
occur in water and wastewater. Bacteria in
sewage is often capable of reducing
sulfates to sulfides. Sulfates forming acids
are associated with corrosion of concrete
pipe under certain conditions.
The solids that either float on the surface
of, or are suspended in, water or
wastewater.
The main sewer which receives sewage
from our or more branch sewers usually
serving a large area, and discharging lo an
intercepting sewer or treatment plant.
The spent water of a community (sewage),
containing waste discharges from
residences, industries, business or
factories, farms, or from any other form of
human activity. '
The area contained within a divide above a
specified point on a stream, aJso referred
to as a drainage area, a drainage basin or a
catchment area.
The sum of the flow> »f sanitary sewage,
industrial wastewater, infr'ltration, and the
portion of the stormwater runoff that may
enter a sewerage system during storms.
H-5
-------
ABBREVIATIONS
ac - arrc
ac ft - acre-feel
BOD - biochemical oxygen demand
< - cents
cu ft - cubic feet
cfs - cubic feet per second
COD - chemical oxygen demand
O
O
C - degrees Centigrade
F - degrees Fahrenheit
BO. - dissolved oxygen
El - elevation
Fig. - Figure
fpm - [n't |icr mmulr
fps - feet per second
ft - foot
gal - gallon
gpad - gallons per acre per day
gped - gallons per capita per day
gpm - gallons per minute
gpmd - gallons per mile p^r day
gpd - gallons per day
HP - horsepower
hr - hour
in - inch
KWI! - kilowatt hour
H-6
-------
I - liter
lb - pound
mgd - million gallons per day
mg/I - milligrams per liter
mi - mi|e
m'n - minute
m' - milliliter
MPN - most probable number
MWe - megawatts electrical
PP*" - parts per million
lb/day _ pounds per day
rPm - revolutions per minute
¦pc - seconds
9tl ^ - square feci
8<1mi - square miles
- total dynamic head
yr - year
H-7
-------
REFERENCES
-------
REFERENCES
CHAPTER II
II.A. PHYSICAL SYSTEM
1. Beinroth, Freidrich H., Outline of the Geology of Puerto Rico,
Bulletin 213, Agricultural Experiment Station, UPR-MayagUez,
Rio Piedras, P.R., February 1969.
2. Black £ Veatch Consulting Engineers, R.A. Domenech & Associates,
Water Resources of Puerto Rico, Phase III, Surface Water Appraisal
Report, Volume 1, 1971. Prepared for Puerto Rico Aqueduct 6 Sewer
Authority.
3. Black £ Veatch Consulting Engineers, R.A. Domenech £ Associates,
Water Resources of Puerto Rico, Phase II, Ground Water Appraisal.
June 1970.
Dean B. Bogart, Ted Arnow and James W. Crook, Water Resources
of Puerto Rico, A Progress Report, 1964, Prepared for the Puerto Rico
Planning Board.
5. Calvesbert, Robert J., Climatic Summaries of Resort Areas: San Juan,
Puerto Rico. US Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmos-
pheric Administration; National Weather Service, Climatography of
the US No. 21-66-1, San Juan, PR, 1971.
6. Calvesbert, Robert J., Climate of Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands,
Climatography of the US No. 60-52, US Department of Commerce/ESSA/
Environmental Data Service, Silver Springs, Maryland, 1961,
reprinted 1970.
7. Environmental Quality Beard, Culebra, 1970, An Island in Transition,
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, 1971.
8. F.F. Ferguson, Juan R. Palmer and W.R. Jobin, Control of
Schistosomiasis on Vieques Island, Puerto Rico, The American
Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, Vol. 17, November 6, 1968.
9. Kaye, C.A., Shoreline Features and Quaternary. Shoreline Changes:
Puerto Rico, Professional Paper 317-B, USGS 1959.
10. Report on Oceanographic Baseline Data for Nearshore Areas Along the
Coasts of Puerto Rico, Area of Natural Resources, Puerto Rico Planning
Board, San Juan, P.R., 1972.
11. John J. Whelan, 3(c) Project; verbal conmunications, June-December,
1972
REM
-------
REFERENCES
CHAPTER II
II.B, SOCIOECONOMIC ASPECTS
1. EQB, Environmental Report 1971, San Juan, P.R. 1971.
2. E.P.A., Southwest Water Laboratory. A study of coastal water
quality in the vicinity of San Juan, Puerto Rico. February
1971.
3. GuSa Industrial y Comercial de Puerto Rico, Inc.
Haines, Lundberg and Waehler, The Preservation of Agricultural
Land in Puerto Rico, Division of Regional and Community Planning,
New York City, 1968.
5. Junta de Planificaci&n de Puerto Sico - Plan de Usos de los
Terrenos y Transportacion, AM5J-19B5, Agosto 1970.
6. Guia Industrial y Comercial de Puerto Rico 1973, San Juan, P.R.
1973.
7. Junta de Planificacion - Informe Economico al Gobernador, 1972
San Juan, P. R. 1972.
8. Junta de Planificaci&n de Puerto Rico - (Preliminary Drafts):
Pianos Reguladores - Aguadilla-1970-1990, August 1970
" ~~ ' ~~ - Arec ibo-Creanco Hoy la Ciudad del Manana-
1970-1990, Junio 1970.
- Barceloneta-1970-1990, May 1972
- Cabo Rojo-1970-1990, August 1972
- Cayey» May 1972
- Coatno, October 1972
- Dorado, August 1972
- Fajardo, .September 1972
- Guayaroa Plan y Accion, August, 1970
- Hatillo-1970-1990, August 1971
- Isla de Culebra, December 1971
- Lajas, September 1973
- Luquillo, July 1972
- Manatl, September, 1972
- Ponce-1990, August,1971
- Toa Alta, August, 1972
- San German, September 1972
- Urban Core Study of Arecibo, June 1970
- Vega Alta, September,1972
- Vega Ba^a, September, 1972
- Yabucoa-1970-1990, August 1971
REF-2
-------
REFERENCES
CHAPTER II
II.C. WATER QUALITY
12. Taiganides, E.P., "The Animal Waste Disposal Problem", In Brady, N.C. (ed).
Agriculture and the Quality of Our Environment, AAAS pub. No. 85, 1967,
PP. 385 - 394.
13. P.R. Dept. of Agriculture, Anteproyecto para Enmendar la Ley Num. 49
de 10 de Junio de 1953, Segun Enmendada, Conocida Coroo "Ley de
Venenos Comerciales", January, 1973.
14. USDC Bureau of the Census General housing characteristics:
Puerto Rico 12/72. Computation of population living in dwellings ^
without flush toilets is the urban and rural population per dwelling,
summed.
15. E.P.A., Southwest Water Laboratory. A study of coastal water quality
in the vicinity of San Juan, Puerto Rico. February 1971.
16. USDC Bureau of the Census Detailed housing characteristics:
Puerto Rico.
17. P.R. Planning Board Building Regulation, as amended through 1968,
Section V-B-3.
18- P*R. Planning Board Amendments to Article 76 of the Planning
Regulation No. 3: Land Subdivision Regulation, January 19, 1972.
Written assurance by PRASA is not specifically required, but is
reportedly practices.
19. P.R. Aqueducts and Sewers Authority, June, 1970 monthly report.
PRASA connections are converted to population served using population
per household by municipality, from 1970 census data. 1990 Estimates
from the 3 (c) report.
20.
"Clinical Aspects of Schistosomiasis", Spectrum, Vol. 7, No. 5, May 1959.
21. Rowan, William B., "Sewage Treatment and Schistosoma Eggs", American
Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, Vol. 13, No. 4, pp. 572-576,
July 1964.
22. > "Schistosomiasis and The Chlorination of Sewage
Effluent", American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, Vol. 13,
No. 4, pp. 577-581, July 1964.
REF-3
-------
REFERENCES
CHAPTER HI
Faiardo Region
1. Beinroth, Friedreich H., Outline of the Geology
of Puerto Rico, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez
Campus, Agricultural Experiment Station, Bulletin 23,
February, 1969, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico.
2. Calvesbert, Robert J., Climate of Puerto Rico and U.S.
Virgin Islands, U.S. Department of Commerce, June, 1970
Washington, D.C.
3. Domenech, Rafael A., and Associates,
Sanitary Survey of Faiardo Bay, 1969
San Juan, Puerto Rioo.
4. Environmental Quality Board, Water Quality of
the Fajardo River, July, 1972, San Juan, Puerto Rico.
5. Haines, Lundberg, and Waehler, The Preservation of
Agricultural Land in Puerto Rico Division of
Regional and Community Planning, New York City, 1968.
6. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Piano Reguladar,
Fajardo, September, 1972.
7. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador,
Uquillo, July, 1972.
8. Ooeanographic Project, Area of Natural Resources, P.R.
Department of Public Works, Report on Oceanographic
Baseline Data for Nearshore Areas Along the Coasts
of Puerto Rico, prepared for P.R. Environmental Quality
Board, July, 1972.
9. Tejada, P.J., and Associates, The Municipal Wastewater
Disposal System for the Fajardo Sub-Basin, Puerto Rico
Basin, prepared for Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer
Authority, 1973, San Juan, Puerto Rico.
rem
-------
REFERENCES
CHAPTER III
San Juan Region
1. Beinroth, Friedrich, H., Outline of the Geology of Puerto Rico
University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus, Agricultural
Experiment Station, Bulletin 213, February 196 9, Rio Piedras,
Puerto Rico.
2. Buck, Seifert, and Jost, Report Upon the Collection and
Disposal of Sewage in the San Juan Metropolitan Sanitary
District, prepared for P.R. Aqueduct and Sewer Authority,
September 1970, Englewood Cliffs, N.J.
3. Calvesbert, Robert J. Climate of Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin
Islands,U.S. Department of Commerce. June, 1970, Washington,
D. C.
4. Gilberto Cintron, and Arsenio Rodriguez, Dissolved Oxygen
Regime of the Salt Water Wedge of Some Puerto Rican Rivers,
P.R. Environmental Quality Board, Unpublished paper, 1972.
5. Environmental Protection Agency, Technical Services Program,
A Study of Coastal Water Quality in the Vicinity of San Juan,
Puerto Rico, 1971, Atlanta, Georgia
6. Haines, Lundberg, and Wachler, The Preservation of Agricultual
Land in Puerto Rico, Division of Regional and Community Plann-
ing, New York City, 1968.
7. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Plan de Usos de los
Terrenos y Transportacion, Amsel, Agosto, 1970.
8. Oceanographic Project, Area of Natural Resources, P.R. Depart-
ment of Public Works, Report on Oceanographic Baseline Data
For Nearshore Areas Along the Coasts of Puerto Ricol Prepared
for P.R. Environmental Quality Board, July, 1972.
9. Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority,Interim Sub-Basin
Water Quality Management Plan, San Juan, Puerto Rico,""
February, 197 3.
10. Puerto Rico Planning Board, San Juan Choices for Change,
Sept, 1967.
11. Reed, Jack, Raymond Kiser, and Pedro Vazquez, Biochemical and
Bacteriological Determinations on Selected Puerto Rico Surface
Waters, USGS, June. 19 72, San Juan, Puerto Rico.
12. Scientist Associates, Inc. Bayamon River Sanitary Quality
Survey, for P.R. Department of Health, 1966, San Juan, P.R.
13. Scientists Associates, Inc., Espiritu Santo River Sanitary
Quality Survey, For P.R. Department OT Heaitft, 196 6, San Juan,
Puerto Kico.
REF-5
-------
REFERENCES
CHAPTER III
San Juan Region, cont'd.
14. Scientists Associates, Loiza River Sanitary Quality Survey,
For P.R. Department of Health, 1966, San Juan, Puerto Rico
15. Storer-Bello Professional Laboratories, Pollution Survey
of the Northeast Coast of Puerto Rico, for the Department of
Health, 1967, San puan, Puerto Rico.
16. Storer-Bello Professional Laboratory Services, Pollution
Survey of the Rio Piedras Watershed, for P.R. Department of
Health, May, 1967, San Juan, P.R.
17. Storer-Bello Professional Laboratories, Sanitary Quality
Survey: San Jose, Torrecillas and Pifiones Lagoons, For
the Department of Health, 1970, San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Caguas Region
1. Beinroth, Friedrich, H., Outline of the Geology of Puerto Rico,
University of Puerto Rico, Mayagiiez Campus Agricultural
Experiment Station, Bulletin 213, February, 196 9, Rio Piedras,
Puerto Rico.
2. Calvesbert, Robert J., Climate of Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin
Islands, U.S. Department of Commerce, June, 1970 , Washington,
D.C.
3. Haines, Lundberg, and Waehler, The Preservation of Agricultural
Land in Puerto Rico, Division of Regional and Community
Planning, New York City, 1968.
•4. Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, Pollution Survey
of the Loiza River and its Tributaries, Prepared for P.R.
Department of Health, 196 8, 19 70, and 19 71.
5. Reed Jack, -Raymond Kiser, and Pedro Vazquez, Biochemical
and Bacteriological Determinations on Selected Puerto Rico
Surface Waters, USGS, June, 19 72.
6. Weston, Roy, F., and R.E. Sarriera Associates, Re pi r>na.1
Sewerage Study for the Caguas Region and for Protection of the
Loiza Reservoir, Prepared for Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer
Authority, April, 1972, West Chester, Pennsylvania.
7. Weston, Roy Fl, and R.E. Sarriera Associates, Supplement to
Regional Sewerage Study for the Caguas Region and for
Protection of the Loiza Reservoir, Prepared for Puerto
Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, November, 1972, West Chester,
Pennsylvania
REF-6
-------
REFERENCES
CHAPTER III
Dorado Region
1. Beinroth, Friedrich, H., Outline of the Geology Puerto Rico,
University of Puerto Rico, Mayagiiez Campus Agricultural^
Experiment Station, Bulletin 213, February, 19 69, Rio Piedras,
Puerto Rico.
2. Black & Veatch and Rafael A. Domenech £ Associates, Report on
Sewerage Facilities for Dorado Region, Puerto Rico, Prepared
for P.R. Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, September, 1972.
3. Calvesbert, Robert J., Climate of Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin
Islands, U.S. Department of Commerce, June, 19 70, Washington,
D.C.
4. Haines, Lundberg, and Waehler, The Preservation of Agricultural
Land in Puerto Rico, Division of Regional and Community
Planning, New York City, 196 8.
5. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador, Cayey,
May, 1972.
6. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador, Coamo
October, 1972.
7. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador, Dorado,
August, 1972.
8. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador, Toa
Alta, August. 19 72.
9* Oceanographic Project, Area of Natural Resources, P.R.
Department of Public Works, Report on Oceanographic Baseline
Data for Nearshore Areas Along the Coasts of Puerto RicoT
prepared for P.R., Environmental Quality Board, July, 19 72.
10
Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, Estudio Sanitario
del Rio de la Plata en el Area de Cayey, for P.R. Department
ot Health, May, 196 5.
11. Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, Sanitary Survey of
the La Plata River Watershed, Prepared for P.R. Department
of Health, April, 1967
12. Reed Jack, Raymond Kiser, and Pedro Vazquez, Biochemical
and Bacteriological Determinations on Selected Puerto Rico
Surface Waters, USGS, June, 19 72.
13. Urrutia, Rafael V., Associates, Municipal Wastewater Disposal
System, Cayey, Puerto Rico, Prepared for -Puerto Rico Aqueduct
and Sewer Authority, April, 1972.
REF-7
-------
references
CHAPTER III
Barceloneta Region
1. Black & Veatch, Design Report on Barceloneta Wastewater
Treatment Plant and Ocean Outfall, For Puerto Rico
Aqueduct and Sewer Authority 19 71,
2. Black & Veatch, Report on Ocean Outfall and Wastewater
Treatment Plant Location at Barceloneta, for Puerto
Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, 19 71.
3. Beinroth, Friedrich, H., Outline of the Geology of
Puerto Rico, University of Puerto Rico, Mayagti'ez Campus
Agricultural Experiment Station, Bulletin 213, February,
1969, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico.
M-. Calvesbert, Rober J., Climate of Puerto Rico and U.S.
Virgin Islands, U.S. Department of Commerce, June, 19 70,
Washington, D.C.
5. Cintron Gilberto and Arsenio Rodriguez, Dissolved Oxygen
regime of the salt water wedge of some Puerto Rican
rivers, P.R. Environmental Quality Board, Umpublished
paper, 19 72.
6. Department of Chemical Engineering of the University
of Puerto Rico, Sanitary Quality of the Cibuco River
Watershed, For the P.R. Department of Health, March,
1967.
7. Guzman, Ramon £ Associates, Proposed Wastewaters Treat-
ment Facilities for the Merk , Sharp £ Dohme Quimica de
Puerto Rico Pharmaceutical Complex at Barceloneta,
Puerto Rico, (Including sanitary Survey of Rio Manati),
April, 19 70.
8. Haines, Lundberg, and Waehler, The Preservation of
Agricultural Land in Puerto Rico
, Division of Regional
and Community Planning
, New York
City,
1968.
9.
Junta de Planificacion
Barceloneta-1970-1990,
de Puerto
May, 19 72
Rico ,
Piano
Regulador,
10.
Junta de Planificacion
Manati, Sept., 1972,
de Puerto
Rico,
Piano
Regulador,
11.
Junta de Planificacion
Vega Alta, Sept., 19 72
de Puerto
•
Rico,
Piano
Regulador,
12.
Junta de Planificacion
de Puerto
Rico,
Piano
Regulador,
Vega Baja, Sept., 1972.
REF-8
-------
REFERENCES
CHAPTER III
Barceloneta Refli'nn cont'd.
13. Oceanographic Project, Area of Natural Resources, P.R.
Department of Public Works, Report on Oceanographic Baseline
Data for Nearshore Areas Along the Coasts of Puerto Rico~H
prepared for P.R., Environmental Quality Board, July, 1972.
14. Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, Environmental
Impact Statement, Barceloneta, P.R. , June, 197 3.
15. Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, Preliminary
Engineering Report on Barceloneta, Puerto Rico Regional
Municipal Waste Disposal Sewerage System, November, 1970
16. Reed Jack, Raymond Kiser, and Pedro Vazquez, Biochemical
and Bacteriological Determinations on Selected Puerto Rico
Surface Waters, USGS, June. 19 72.
17. Scientist Associates, Inc., Rio Grande de Manati Sanitary
Quality Survey, For the P.R. Department of Health, 1966.
REF-9
-------
references
CHAPTER III
Arecibo Region
1. Beinroth, Friedrich H., Outline of the Geology of Puerto Rico,
University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus Agricultural
Experiment Station, Bulletin 213, February, 1969, Rio Piedras,
San Juan.
2. Bogert-Spectrum Associates, Arecibo Oceanographic Study,
for Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, 1972
3. Calvesbert, Robert J., Climate of Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin
Islands, U.S. Department of Commerce, June 197 0, Washington D.C.
4. Haines, Lundberg and Waehler, The Pre servation of Agricultural
Land in Puerto Rico, Division of Regional and Community
Planning, New York City, 1968.
5. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Arecibo creando hoy la
ciudad de manana - 197 0-199 C, Junio 1971T
6. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador,
Urban Core Study of Arecibo, June 197 0.
7. Oceanographic Project, Area of Natural Resources, P.R.
Department of Public Works, Report on Oceanographic Baseline
Data for Near store' Area along the Coasts or Puerto Rico,
prepared for P.R. Environmental Quality Board, July 1972.
8. Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, Planning Report on
Regional Wastewater Disposal System, Arecibo, ^.rT, April 1972.
9. Scientist Associates, Rio Grande de Arecibo Watershed Sanitary
Quality Survey, for Puerto Rico Department of Health.
10. Storer-Bello Professional Laboratory Services, Arecibo Bay
Sanitary Survey, 1967.
REF-10
-------
references
CHAPTER HI
Aguadilla Region
1. Beinroth, Friedrich, H. , Outline of the Geology of Puerto Rico,
University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus Agricultural^
Experiment Htation, Bulletin 213, February, 196 9, Rio Piedras,
Puerto Rico.
2. Bogert - Spectrum Associates, Isabela Qceanographic Study,
For PRASA, 1970.
3. Calvesbert, Robert J., Climate of Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin
Islands, U.S. Department of Commerce, June, 197 0, Washington,
D.C.
Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Puerto
^co* Sanitary Quality of the Guajataca Watershed, For P.R.
Department of Health and PRASA, March, 1964.
5. Haines, Lundberg, and Waehler, The Preservation of Agricultural
Land in Puerto Rico, Division of Regional and Community
Planning, New York City, 1968.
6. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador,
Aguadilla, 1970-1990, August, 197 0.
7. Junta de Planificaci6n de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador,
Hatillo, 1970-1990, August, 1971.
8. Munoz, Rafael. Report of Sanitary Quality of the Culebrinas
River Watershed. Dept. of Chemical Engineering, University
of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez, 1966.
9. Oceanographic Project, Area of Natural Resources, P.R.
Department of Public Works, Report on Oceanographic Baseline
Data for Nearshore Areas Along the Coasts of Puerto Rico,
Prepared for P.R., Environmental Quality Board, July, 1972.
10. Puerto Rico Department of Health, Report of Sanitary Quality
of Aguadilla Bay, 1967.
11. Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, Planning Report on
Regional Wastewater Disposal System, Aguadilla, Puerto Rico,
April, 1972.
12. Reed Jack, Raymond Kiser, and Pedro Vazquez, Biochemical
and Bacteriological Determinations on Selected Puerto Rico
Surface Waters! ussa, June, 1972. ———
13. Wastewater System and Ocean Outfall, Aguada-Aguadilla, for
Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, 1970.
REF-11
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REFERENCES
CHAPTER III
Mayaguez Region
1. Beinroth, Friedrich, H. , Outline of the Geology of
Puerto Rico, University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez
Campus Agricultural Experiment Station, Bulletin
213, February, 196 9, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico
2. Calvesbert, Robert J., Climate of Puerto Rico and U»S.
Virgin Islands, U.S. Department of Commerce, June, 1970
Washington, D.C.
3. Department of Chemical Engineering, University of
Puerto Rico, Report of Sanitary Quality of the Rio
Grande de Anasco Watershed, For the P.R. Department
of Health and PRASA, July 1964-.
4. Department of Chemical Engineering, University of
Puerto Rico, Sanitary Quality of the Guanajibo River
Watershed, for the P.R, Department of Health and PRASA,
July, 1964.
5. Puerto Rico, Sanitary Quality of the Yaguez River
Watershed for the P.R. Department of Health, Sept. 1964.
6. Environmental Quality Board, A water Quality Study of
Bahla Fosforescente and Nearby La Parguera, 19727*^
7. Guzman, Ramon M. and Associates, Sanitary Survey
and Oceanographic Study for Proposed El Mani Wastewater
Treatment Plant at Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, for PRASA,
1970
8. Haines, Lundberg, and Waehler, The Preservation of
Agricultural Land in Puerto Rico, Division of Regional
and Community Planning, New York City, 196 8.
9. Justiniano, Efrain, A Pollution Study of the Waste
Discharge of the Mayaguez Canning Complex for P.R.
Department of Health, 19 70.
10. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador,
Cabo Rojo, 1970-1990, August, 1972.
11. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador,
Lajas, September, 19 72.
12. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador,
San German, September, 1972.
REF-12
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REFERENCES
CHAPTER III
Mayaguez Region cont'd.
13. Lara, Rodolfo, Pollution Survey of La Parguera and the
"Bahla Fosforescente * for P.R. Department of Health,
1969.
14. Munoz, Nazario S Associates, A Pollution Study of
May agile z Bay, 1968
15. Oceanographic Project, Area of Natural Resources, P.R.
Department of Public Works, Report on Oceanographic
Baseline Data for Nearshore Areas Along the Coasts of
Puerto Rico, prepared for P.R.» Environmental Quality
Board, July, 19 72.
16. Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, Preliminary
Engineering Report on Mayaguez, Puerto Rico Regional
Municipal waste Disposal Sewerage System, March, 1971
17. Reed Jack, Raymond Kiser, and Pedro Vazquez, Biochemical
and Bacteriological Determinations on Selected Puerto Ri'co
Surface Waters7 USGS, June, 1972.
18. Storer-Bello Professional Laboratories. Report of a
Pollution Survey of Boqueron Bay and Rincon Lagoon,
For P.R. Department of Health, 1967.
REF-13
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references
CHAPTER III
Guayanilla Region l_
1. Beinroth, Freidrich H., Outline of the Geology of Puerto Rico, University
of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus Agricultural Experiment Station,
Bulletin 213, Rio Piedra£, PR, February 1969.
2. Calvesbert, Robert J., Clinate of Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands,
US Department of Commerce, Washington, DC, June, 1970.
3. Domenech, Rafael A. and Associates, Sanitary Survey of Tallaboa Bay,
for the PR Department of Health, 1988.
Haines, Lundberg and Waehler, The Preservation of Agricultural land in
Puerto Rico, Division of Regional arri Community Planning, New York,
NY, 1968.
5. Lara, Rodolfo, Pollution Suevey of Guanica Bay, for the PR Department
of Heaith, 1965.
6. Munoz, Nazario and Associates, A Pollution Study of Guanica Bay, 1968.
7. Oceanographic Project, Area of Natural Resources, PR Department
of Public Works, Report on Oceanographic Baseline Data for Nearshore
Areas Along the Coasts of Puerto Rico", prepared for the PREQB, July,
1972.
8. Tippetts, Abbett, McCarthy, Stratton, Municipal Wastewater Disposal
System—Guayanilla Sub-Basin, Puerto Rico, prepared for PRASA, October,
1972.
REF-14
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REFERENCES
CHAPTER III
Ponce Region
1. Beinroth, Freidrich H., Outline of the Geology of Puerto Rico, University
of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Gampus Agricultural Experiment Station,
Bulletin 213, Rio Piedras, PR, February 1969.
2. Calvesbert, Robert J., Climate of Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands,
US Department of Ccrnmerce, Washington, DC, June, 1970.
3. Domenech S Associates, Sanitary Survey of the Ponce Bay Water, 1968.
t+. Feheley-Bartolamei-Franqui-Camino -Hazen and Sawyer, Report to PRASA
on Engineering Investigation Of a Sewage Outfall for the City of Ponce,
1970.
5. Haines, Lundberg and Waehler, The Preservation of Agricultural Lands in
Puerto Rico, Division of Regional and Community Planning, New York
City, 1968.
6. Junta de Planificacicfn de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador: Coamo, October 1972.
7. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador: Ponce, August, 1971.
8. Munoz, Nazario and Associates, A Pollution Study of the Matilde River,
for the PR Department of Health, San JUan, PR, 1970.
9. Oceanographic Project, Area of Natural Resources, PR Department of
Public Works, A '
Along the Coasts
Public Works, A Report on Oceanographic Baseline Data for Nearshore Areas
or Puerto Rico, prepared for PREQB, July, 1972.
REF-15
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REFERENCES
CHAPTER III
Guayama Region
1. Beinroth, Friedreich, H., Outline of the Geology of Puerto Rico,
University of Puerto Rico, May ague z Carpus Agricultural
Experiment Station, Bulletin 213, February, 1969, Rio Piedras,
Puerto Rico.
2. Calvesbert, Robert J., Climate of Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin
Islands, U.S. Department of Commerce, June, 1970, Washington*
D.C.
3. Gonzalez, Alfredo Heres, Preliminary Wastewater Management Report
Guayama Sub region, For PRASA, March, 1971
4. Haines, Lundberg, and Waehler, The Preservation of Agricultural
Land in Puerto Rico, Division of Regional and Coirmunity Planning,
New York City, 1968.
5. Junta de Planificacion de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador, Guayama
Plan y Accion, August 1970
6. Lara Rodolfo, Estudio Sanitario de la Bahla de Arroyo, Departamento
de Salud, San Juan, Puerto Rico, Marzo 1970.
7. Mufioz R., M. Pedraja, A. Rodriguez, Report of Sanitary
Quality of Rio Grande de Patillas River Watershed, San Juan, P.R., 1967.
8. Munoz R., M. Pedraja, A. Rodriguez, Sanitary Survey of Guayama
Bay, San Juan, P.R., June 1967.
9. Oceanographic Project, Area of Natural Resources, P.R. Department
of Public Works, Report on Oceanographic Baseline Data for Nearshore
Areas Along the Coasts of Puerto Rico, prepared for P.R., Environmental
Quality Board, July, 1972.
10. Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, Preliminary Engineering
Report on Salinas, Puerto Rico S Sanitary Sewerage system for
Coqui Community, November, 1971.
11. Puerto Rico, Department of Health, Report of the Sanitary Survey of
Jobos Bay and Adjacent Waters Guayama-Salinas, San Juan, P.R., May
1965.
12. Quinones Diez, Silva y Asociados, Preliminary Design, Report-Guayama
Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant, for PRASA, August, 1972.
13. Storer-Bello Professional Laboratories, Sanitary Survey of the
Maunabo River, San Juan, P.R., December 1968.
REP-16
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REFERENCES
CHAPTER in
Humacao Region
1. Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, Yabucoa Bay, Report to the
Sun Oil Company, Philadelphia, 1969.
2. Beinroth, Friedrich, H., Outline of the Geology of Puerto Rico,
University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus Agricultural Experiment
Station, Bulletin 213, February, 1969, Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico.
3. Calvesbert, Robert J., Climate of Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin
Islands, U.S. Department of Commerce, June, 1970 , Washington, D.C.
Domenech, Rafael A. and Associates, Sanitary Survey of Rio Blanco
at Naguabo, for P.R. Department of Health, June, 1970.
5. Domenech, Rafael A. and Associates, Sanitary Survey of Rio Santiago,
for P.R. Department of Health and PRASA, June 1970.
6. Haines, Lundberg, and Waehler, The Preservation of Agricultural
Land in Puerto Rico, Division of Regional and Community Planning,
New York City, 1968.
7. Junta de PlanificaciSn de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador, Yabucoa-
1970-1990, August, 1971.
8. Oceanographic Project, Area of Natural Resources, P.R.
Department of Public Works, Report on Oceanographic Baseline
Data for Nearshore Areas Along the Coasts of Puerto Rico,
Prepared for P.R., Environmental Quality Board, July, 1972.
9. 0'Kelly, Mendez, and Brunner, Wastewater Treatment and Ocean
Disposal for the Humacao Area, for PRASA, 1971.
10. Storer-Bello Professional Laboratories, Report of the Pollution
Survey of the Humacao River Watershed, for P.R. Department of
Health, July, 1967.
11. Storer Bello Professional Laboratories, Report of the Pollution
Survey of the Naguabo Bay, 1967.
12. Storer Bello Professional Laboratories, Sanitary Survey Report of
the Yabucoa Bay, 1968.
REF-17
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REFERENCES
CHAPTER III
Off shore Islands Region
1. Beinroth, Friedreich, H,, Outline of the Geology of Puerto Rico. University
of Puerto Rico, Kayaguez Campus Agricultural Experiment Station, Bulletin
213, February, 1969, Rio Piedras, Puerto 'Rico.
2. Calvesbert, Robert J., Climate of Puerto Rico and U.S.Virgin Islands,
U.S. Department of Commerce, June, 1970, Washington, D.C.
3. Environmental Quality Board, Culebra-Island in Transition, 1971.
U. Environmental Quality Board, Vieques, Unpublished report, 1973.
5. Junta de Planificaci6n de Puerto Rico, Piano Regulador, Isla de
Culebra, December 1971
6. Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, Comprehensive Plan for Water
Supply and Sanitary Sewer Facilities for Rural Areas in puerto Rico,
Evaluation and Planning of Rural Water and Sewer Systems, for P.R.
Planning Board, June, 1970.
REF-18
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references
Appendix B
1. The original source for figures developed by PRASA and EQB
was Smith, Robert: "Cost of Conventional and Advanced Treat-
ment of Wastewater, Water Pollution Control Foundation Journal,
vol. 40, no. 9, 1968, pp. 1546-1574.
2. Patterson, W.L., and R.F. Banker; Estimating Costs and Man-
power Requirements for Conventional Wastewater Treatment7
Facilities, by Black S Veatch Consulting Engineers for the
Office of Research and Monitoring, EPA, Kansas City, Mo.,
1971.
3. Prepared by Project Staff, WQPD, 1973,
4. PRASA Design Division cost-estimate charts.
5. Municipal Waste Water Disposal System, Cayey, Puerto Rico:
prepared by Rafael V. UrrutiaAssociates, Hato Rey, P.R.
1972. This chart on p. 100, Appendix H-2, was supplied by
the US Department of the Interior, Federal Water Pollution
Control Administration (1970).
REF-19
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REFERENCES
Appendix C
1. Lopez, Miguel A. and Fred K. Fields, A Proposed Streamf1ow-Data
Program for Puerto Rico,USGS Caribbean District, open file report, 1970.
2. Kipple, F.P., et al., Water Records of Puerto Rico, 1958-63, USGS
open file report, 1968.
3. Ricker, J.G., et al., Mater Records of Puerto Rico, 1964-67,1; North
and Northeast Slopes; n: South And West Slopes" Puerto Rico Data
Report, 1970. 1 —
4. L^pez, M.A. and E.Z. Coldn-Dieppa, Low Flow Frequency and Magnitude
in Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico Data Release PR-8, 1973.
5. Lopez, M.A., USGS. Personal Cormiunication.
REF-20
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