VARIATIONS OF THE COASTLINE OF THE COVE OF PAJUÇARA BETWEEN 1955 AND 2020, MACEIÓ - AL: AN ANALYSIS THROUGH THE EPR METHOD

Abstract

The coastlines constitute a striking sub-morphology, representing important evidence of processes of sand removal and addition on the beach. Considering this, the present study sought to analyze the variations of the coastlines of the Cove of Pajuçara, between 1955 and 2020, using the EPR4Q 3.14 model to calculate the variation rates between these years, making use of satellite data and aerial photographs processed through the QGIS software. The results showed that a large part of the southern and central portion of the Cove obtained values compatible with equilibrium between 0.5 and -0.5 m/a, while a small portion in the north was found to have erosive processes with variation rates between -0, 5 and -1 m/a. In these portions, several retaining structures that proved to be not so effective in retaining meteorological tides were still found, requiring more effective structures or the implementation of effective waterfront management projects, which, if not applied, may intensify or even double the action of erosion processes in future perspectives. The generated data can be incorporated into management plans aiming at the conversation and recovery of the specific areas.