Quali-quantitative water behaviour in an intensive swine production catchment in the Atlantic Forest biome, Southern Brazil

  • 0Department of Environmental Engineering, Regional University of Blumenau, Blumenau, Santa Catarina, Brazil.

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Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Agricultural runoff significantly degrades water quality in Brazil

Area Of Science

  • Environmental Science
  • Hydrology
  • Agricultural Science

Background

  • Agriculture is vital to Brazil's economy but a major cause of water pollution.
  • Monitoring agricultural catchments is crucial for identifying water quality issues.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To assess the impact of intensive agriculture on water quality in the Atlantic Forest biome.
  • To analyze hydrological and water quality data from the Fortaleza River catchment over seven years.

Main Methods

  • Conducted hydrological and water quality monitoring using fluviometric stations, lysimeters, a meteorological station, and a piezometer.
  • Collected data on precipitation, temperature, water flow, runoff, drainage, and water quality parameters.
  • Utilized statistical analyses and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for data interpretation.

Main Results

  • Precipitation showed homogeneous monthly and annual distribution from 2013-2019.
  • Statistical differences in flow rates were observed between upstream and downstream sections.
  • Elevated ammonium, nitrate, and potassium concentrations in lysimeter runoff directly linked to agricultural activities.

Conclusions

  • Intensive agricultural practices in the Fortaleza River catchment significantly impact surface and underground water quality.
  • Monitoring programs are essential for understanding and mitigating agricultural non-point source pollution.
  • PCA revealed distinct chemical relationships in surface water, lysimeters, and groundwater, highlighting agricultural influence.