Urban Geomorphology and Environmental Problems in Poti River Plain in Crateús, Northeast Brazil

This paper deals with the Urban Geomorphology of the Poti River in Crateus, at Ceara State, Northeast Brazil. The objective is to carry out a geographical analysis of the aspects that make up this study section. The methodology is based on geosystemic analysis, and the techniques involve bibliographic and cartographic research and analysis-description in the field. The main results found were that the Poti River and the City developed under a very peculiar geological-geomorphological stratum, which contributed to define the current natural and social landscape features present in the fluvial plain. The use and occupation analysis showed that the river course is considerably contaminated and degraded. Soil sealing, water pollution, silting, the presence of sub-anormal agglomerations are some situations that indicate unappropriated use and occupation. It is intended with this geographic-geomorphological research, to support the recovery and conservation of this water resource in the context of the city. It is the first research made in this municipality about its urban problems, and we expect it to be taken into consideration by the local government. It is also an improvement in terms of analysis of the urban environment in countryside Northeast Brazil.