Community perception of the impact of oil extractive activities on the availability of water resources - Vereda La Mesa, Paicol (Huila)

Contextualization: The availability and quality of water resources in rural areas affected by extractive activities is a growing concern in Colombia and Latin America due to its impact on agriculture, livestock, and food security. In the village of La Mesa (Paicol, Huila), more than five decades of oil exploitation have altered the flow patterns and physicochemical characteristics of natural water sources, threatening local sustainability.

Knowledge gap: Although there are studies on hydrocarbon contamination in the Orinoquía region (Ardila & Espinosa, 2019) and the effects of oil exploration on surface water quality (Lusweti et al., 2022), there is little research that integrates community perceptions and adaptive strategies. In particular, knowledge is lacking on how social and cultural responses shape resilience to oil-induced water degradation.

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze, from a grounded theory perspective, the perceptions, practices, and demands of La Mesa inhabitants regarding the impact of oil activity on water supply and management.

Methodology: Three semi-structured interviews were conducted with leaders of the La Mesa Community Action Board. The data were transcribed and analyzed using ATLAS.ti through open coding (identification of meaning units), axial coding (categorical relationships), and selective coding (central category consolidation). Citation frequency was quantified and key findings illustrated with textual excerpts.

Results and conclusions: Five thematic categories emerged: access and availability of water; quality and treatment; impact of extractive activities; community conservation practices; and institutional expectations and proposals. The central category, "Community resilience to water degradation from extractive activities," explains how the community has implemented reservoirs, spring protection, and reforestation as adaptive strategies. However, persistent distrust toward companies and institutions limits the effectiveness of external interventions. It is concluded that water management policies should integrate local knowledge, ensure transparency in licensing and compensation processes, and scale up community practices within municipal and departmental water governance plans.