Physical and Chemical Analysis of Water From the Rio do Ouro in Ouro Verde do Oeste PR Brazil

Abstract

Water resources have recently been of great concern since they are highly important for life quality and, at the same time, susceptible of pollution. Monitoring and control systems may evaluate and identify the main pollutants and quantify pollutant causes and thus prevent great impacts on water resources. Current research analyzes the physical and chemical impacts of the water of Rio do Ouro in the municipality of Ouro Verde do Oeste PR Brazil, and compares results with the rates established by current Brazilian legislation. Six collection points were analyzed and the different interferences around the water body were assessed. Collections were undertaken between September 2013 and April 2014, and the evaluated parameters were temperature, total solids, turbidity, pH, total phosphorus, electric conductivity and total ammonium nitrogen. Results were compared with standards given in Resolution 357/2005 of CONAMA. Results are within permitted limits even though certain rates of pH, turbidity and total solids were above the limits. These may be related to activities developed around the water collection sites such as erosion or rainfall during the sampling period. Rates that go beyond the established limits show the importance of monitoring to detect possible impacts on the water body and communicate the administration so that measures would be undertaken for the maintenance of the life quality of the environment and of the populations.