Water chemistry data from Nevado Coropuna volcano, Peru

Tropical glaciers are rapidly retreating with unknown consequences for downstream communities that rely on meltwater for their water supply. The Nevado Coropuna volcano in arid southern Peru contains the largest ice cap in the tropics but the glaciers are projected to disappear within the next century. To investigate water sources and water quality on Nevado Coropuna volcano, we collected water samples from cold springs, thermal springs, streams, and from glacial meltwater over three field campaigns in the dry season in November 2019 (n = 11), August 2022 (n = 46), and August 2023 (n = 23). Additionally, we collected hot spring samples in Cotahuasi Canyon and Colca Canyon during the 2023 trip to investigate regional thermal water chemistry. We collected samples from 70 unique sites, with repeat samples collected from 5 sites over three years, for a total of 80 water samples. Stream samples included water collected from rivers, streams, and irrigation canals. Cold spring samples were classified as springs with temperatures less than 25⁰C, and thermal springs were classified as springs with a temperature greater than 25⁰C. Glacial meltwater samples were collected directly at the toe of the glacier. Water samples were analyzed for trace/major elements and water stable isotopes. Field parameters were measured at each site with a multiparameter probe. Field and laboratory methods are described in the attached master's thesis (Rowley_2024).