Environmental Analysis Of The Municipal Lake Of Santa Cruz Do Rio Pardo

Case Study

Abstract

Objective – The study aims to analyze the water quality of the municipal lake of Santa Cruz do Rio Pardo, considering its ecological, social, and recreational relevance. It seeks to identify possible sources of contamination, assess environmental impacts and public health risks, and provide support for water conservation policies.

Methodology – The research was conducted through a bibliographic review in scientific databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Scielo, and CAPES Journals) and physicochemical analyses of water samples collected at three different points of the lake, on different dates. Analytical kits from the company Alfakit were used to evaluate parameters such as dissolved oxygen, turbidity, chlorides, total hardness, orthophosphate, ammonia, iron, pH, and residual chlorine. Statistical analysis was performed using Excel 365 and PaSt software, applying ANOVA and complementary tests (Tukey HSD and Bonferroni).

Originality/relevance – The study addresses the gap in research on urban aquatic environments supplied by underground sources, highlighting the finding that the lake is not fed by the Rio Pardo but by a well of anthropic origin. Its academic relevance lies in providing novel data on the water quality of a public recreational space, expanding the role of Biomedicine in environmental diagnosis.

Results – The results indicated high levels of phosphorus and turbidity, above legal limits, as well as significant differences between the analyzed points regarding residual chlorine, hardness, orthophosphate, and turbidity. Although parameters such as dissolved oxygen and iron were within acceptable limits, the findings revealed anthropic interference and risk of eutrophication. Evidence of organic decomposition and accumulation of minerals such as calcium carbonate was also found, reinforcing the groundwater origin of the water.

Theoretical/methodological contributions – The study demonstrates the applicability of statistical tools (ANOVA and Bonferroni) in the analysis of physicochemical parameters in surface waters, reinforcing the importance of biomedical professionals in environmental monitoring. Furthermore, it offers a replicable protocol for collection and analysis, based on national and international standards, which may support future research and monitoring practices.

Social and environmental contributions – The research provides relevant information for raising public awareness about the risks of consuming fish from contaminated waters and highlights the need for preventive water management actions. It also points to urgent measures such as the regularization of groundwater abstraction, water treatment, and continuous monitoring, contributing to public health, aquatic ecosystem preservation, and the development of more effective public policies.