Pantanal Wastewater Treatment Plant, Nayarit, Mexico

Pantanal wastewater treatment plant is located in the town of Pantanal, within the municipality of Xalisco, Nayarit, Mexico. The facility serves a population of approximately 8,215 residents, classifying it as a small to medium agglomeration under Mexican wastewater regulations. The plant provides secondary treatment, which is the standard level required for municipal wastewater in Mexico under the official Mexican standards (NOM-001-SEMARNAT). The plant has a designed capacity of 1,555.20 volume units and currently discharges 777.60 volume units, indicating it operates at about half its capacity. As a secondary treatment facility, it removes organic matter and suspended solids before discharge. The treated effluent is discharged into the local watershed, which ultimately drains into the Pacific Ocean via the Santiago River basin. The region's hydrology supports agricultural activities and diverse ecosystems. Proper treatment helps protect downstream water quality and aquatic habitats in Nayarit's coastal zone.

The plant discharges into the Santiago River basin, which flows through Nayarit and empties into the Pacific Ocean near San Blas. This coastal watershed supports mangrove ecosystems and important fisheries. The secondary treatment reduces organic load and suspended solids, helping to maintain water quality in the river and downstream coastal environment.