Unravelling and understanding local perceptions of water quality in the Santa basin, Peru

•Novel participatory dataset used to unravel water quality perspectives in Peru.•Qualitative data helped to explore the complexity of the issue and relationships.•Variation in water quality perceptions identified within, and between, study areas.•Water quality perceptions are related to water quantity, water use, and emotions.•Inclusive citizen-based science is crucial for local water resource management.