Seasonal glacial meltwater contributions to surface water in the Bolivian Andes: A case study using environmental tracers

Glacier meltwater data shows distinct seasonal isotopic values, presenting opportunities for end-member mixing analyses. From isotopes, we estimate 31-65% of the water measured in high altitude streams and reservoirs during the 2011 wet season originated from melting of ice and recent snow, while glacier ice contributed 39-71% of the water in reservoirs in the 2012 dry season. This study demonstrates that more comprehensive sampling in the region could quantify the contributions of glacial meltwater and nonglacial sources to surface water supplies.