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In arid ecosystems, evapotranspiration generally exceeds precipitation, preventing deep drainage and groundwater recharge. We propose that vegetation changes associated with the establishment of pastoralist settlements (i.e. livestock stations) can disrupt the ecological and hydrological linkages in arid groundwater‐coupled ecosystems of the Monte desert (Argentina), allowing local groundwater recharge and nitrate leaching to the aquifer, affecting groundwater quality. We tested this hypothesis by analysing vegetation, land use indicators, water and nitrate dynamics in three pairs of livestock stations and relatively undisturbed control woodlands. Livestock stations had lower vegetation and dead wood but higher dung covers than control woodlands, indicating soil and vegetation changes associated to land use. Water and nitrate dynamics were also affected by land use. Soil nitrate and water contents sampled …