Comments on the water quality classification of water bodies

ABSTRACT The classification of water bodies according to designated uses is a tool present in the 9.433/97 federal law and has being applied in several Brazilian hydrographic basins. Due to its relatively recent application, there are many doubts about the details of its implementation. The paper suggests a methodology that is being used by the authors, comprising the steps foreseen in Conselho Nacional de Recursos Hídrico’s (CNRH) Resolution nº 91/08. Although it is not a definitive methodology, it aims to contribute to the debate about the use of this relevant management tool of water resources.