General remarks on valley bottom areas in Maringá

Abstract

A rich water system, consisting of water courses which invariably have their beds in the valleys, or valley bottoms, characterizes the urban area of Maringá PR Brazil. The degradation of these environments is becoming a problem from the social and environmental aspects due to increasing degradation brought about by human activities. The preservation of riparian forests is of paramount importance for the preservation of valley bottoms. In fact, they reduce the occurrence of erosion and silting and improve the local landscape. Current investigation contributes towards discussions on valley bottoms within the urban area of Maringá, with special emphasis on riparian forests. Methodology is based on bibliographical revision. Solution of problems and of urban environmental conflicts in Maringá will occur through effective municipal environmental policies, committed towards the conservation of nature, in which the social subjects involved in these issues work together as a team.