Landscape characterization of a preservation area: case study of Lagoinha (Rio Grande, RS)

Abstract

The identification and mapping of coastal environmental units that compose the Lagoa dos Patos Estuary are the first steps towards to coastal management. This study was carried out in a preservation area of Rio Grande Port. Using photo interpretation four main environmental unit were identified. Salt marshes are the most representative unit mainly composed by mid and high zone. The second unit represented by dunes composed of foredunes, stabilized dunes and transitional dune-grasslands. A third unit identified was grassland that colonize transition between areas of high marsh. Disturbed areas represented a forth unit. Grazing, fire and garbage disposal were the main impacts affecting the plant cover.