Author(s)

F. Martins, P. Pina, S. Calado, S. Delgado & R. Neves

Abstract

A coupled hydrodynamic and ecological model to manage water quality in Ria Formosa coastal lagoon F. arti ins', P. pina2, S. calado3, S. ~ e l ~ a d o ~ & R. ~ e v e s ~ ' ~ s c o l a Superior de Tecnologia, University of Algawe, Portugal 2 Instituto Superior Te'cnico, Technical University of Lisbon, Portugal 3 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ - ~ l g a r v e , Environmental Ministry, Portugal Abstract Nitrate and urban waste water directives have raised the need for a better understanding of coastal systems in the European Union. The incorrect application of these directives can lead to important ecological or social penalties. In this paper this problem is addressed to Ria Formosa Coastal Lagoon. Ria Formosa hosts a Natural Park, important ports of the southern Portuguese coast and significant bivalve aquaculture activity. Four major urban waste water treatment plants discharging into the lagoon are considered in this study. Its treatment level must be selected, based on detailed information from a monitoring prog

Keywords