Na rota dos sedimentos: da fonte aos reservatórios

SedTrail aims to develop a comprehensive framework for assessing and quantifying sediment load from watersheds to reservoirs. The methodology will be applied to the Sorraia Watershed and Maranhão reservoir, including various scenarios with a focus on the catchment scale, aiming to develop a more precise and applicable methodology for this area, with potential for extension to include upland reservoirs and downland coastal zones. SedTrail aims to enhance sediment assessment and management through the following objectives: -Develop a holistic framework integrating watershed and reservoir models. -Quantify sediment loads within the basin and their delivery to the reservoir. -Establish a clear link between watershed management practices and sediment changes. -Enable quantification of sediment accumulation in reservoirs. By applying the developed methodology in a case study, SedTrail aims to: -Facilitate the development of effective planning and management strategies. -Establish a precise methodology applicable to the study area. -Lay the groundwork for understanding the dynamics between upland reservoirs and downland coastal zones, thereby contributing more comprehensive sediment management plans while supporting processes in aquatic ecosystems. SedTrail's research focus on sediments, vital components of riverine, estuarine, and coastal environments, directly addresses critical challenges: -Preserving transport regimes: By comprehensively understanding sediment dynamics, SedTrail contributes significantly to maintaining the health and integrity of aquatic ecosystems. -Alignment with Water Framework Directive (WFD) and EU policies: SedTrail's work is strategically aligned with established environmental directives and policies, thereby providing essential support for achieving environmental sustainability goals. -Addressing human impact: SedTrail's emphasis on sediment quantity and quality underscores its role in promoting sustainable management practices essential for mitigating the adverse effects of human activities on aquatic ecosystems. SedTrail's objectives exhibit ambition in several key aspects: -Novel Concepts: SedTrail seeks to pioneer innovative approaches to sediment management, exploring novel concepts that challenge conventional practices and contribute to advancements in the field. -Interdisciplinary Integration: By fostering interdisciplinary connections across disciplines such as hydrology, ecology, and engineering, SedTrail aims to harness the collective expertise and insights to address sediment management challenges comprehensively. -Deliver the knowledge base and practical solutions for sustainable management of Watershed-River-Reservoir Systems: Through interdisciplinary integration and stakeholder engagement, SedTrail aims to provide actionable insights and solutions to address complex challenges, ensuring their long-term sustainability. -Provide science-based solutions to societal risks arising from global and climate change: By applying numerical models and data-driven approaches, SedTrail aims to offer innovative solutions to mitigate the impacts of global and climate change on water and sediment quality and quantity, thereby enhancing resilience and adaptability. -Data portal for integrated data and knowledge sharing: SedTrail aims to create a centralized platform to access existing data and knowledge across sectors and disciplines, promoting collaboration and facilitating evidence-based decision-making.