Flows in urban water bodies in the eastern Amazon: concepts, measurements and water quality

Abstract

There are numerous problems with measuring flows in streams in the Legal Amazon, including urban growth and the high cost of instruments for this variable. The aim of this research was to identify the main concepts and types of flow in the literature, the ways in which they can be measured, as well as ways of intervening in the water quality of this water variable, for application in the Paragominas stream, urban stretch. The method applied was exploratory, quantitative and qualitative, and observational in nature. The data obtained indicated that the concepts identified in the 29 pieces of literature selected are similar. The 11 types of definitions involve the uses of water (n = 15; 28.6%); there were four types of measurement instruments, with the use of floats standing out (n = 5.0; 38.5%). Comparative studies on the quality of measurements made with hydraulic windlasses and floats (n = 1.0; 7.7%) showed values with low differences in streams (0.1m3/s ≤ Q ≥ 0.4 m³/s). Based on these data and the physical irregularities reported by the selected authors, it is concluded that the latter method is effective for measuring the water body under study in the urban area of the municipality of Paragominas, Pará, Brazil. The data contained here can be used to assist in water management in this municipality, as well as flood control and prevention.