Avaliação da APP no entorno de Centrais Geradoras Hidrelétricas no noroeste do RS

Abstract

This study aims to define the permanent preservation areas around small hydroelectric plants in the northwest region of the State of Rio Grande do Sul. The three plants chosen for the sites are installed at different points along the Fortaleza River watershed. For image processing and delimitation of preservation areas, the QGIS software was used, and the results were compared with current legislation and regulations. At the Carlos Bevilácqua Plant, downstream from the reservoir, satisfactory results are observed in the permanent areas, which must be 30.00 m according to the resolution. In the reservoir, even with preservation creation points, it presented points without reforested coverage on the sides (20.00% of the analyzed area). At Usina Fortaleza, no faults were found in the areas above the bed and reservoir. The area where the smallest portion of preservation was identified was the Usina Granja Velha, where, according to the analyzed section, actions are needed in 13.00% of the bed and 18.00% of the reservoir. Thus, it is concluded that some areas, whether referring to the margin or bed of the reservoir, have points in disagreement with the current legislation, but that are easily resolved, as they are just some isolated strips or specific points. Reforestation and/or fencing actions are recommended in these areas, aiming at the maintenance and preservation of the environment.