Determination of hydrological stress in a river basin in northeastern Brazil

ABSTRACT This study determines the degree of hydrological stress (HS) on the Goiana River basin in Pernambuco, a state in northeastern Brazil. The hydrological stress index is obtained by comparing the values of the surface permits with the limits granted by the managers. The results pointed to a situation of “High” hydrological stress (HS) in the Nazaré da Mata sub-basin, with approximately 94.76% of the grantable flow being used. In the Caricé sub-basin, the degree of hydrological stress was considered “Medium,” with about 31.77% of available flow being granted. The other sub-basins had results considered to be “Low” hydrological stress (between 0% and 25%). Given these results, this study emphasizes the importance of constantly monitoring data on the demand for water use in the region and improving the criteria management bodies follow when granting permits.