Performance evaluation of flow duration curves regionalization methods

ABSTRACT The main objective of the study was the evaluation of Characteristic Values and Exponential Curve methods as alternatives for flow permanence curves regionalization. Additionally, the use of regional flow indicators for the appropriation of reference flows associated with flow permanence curves was evaluated. The study area covered the Itapemirim and Itabapoana rivers watersheds, the most important located in the southern portion of the Espírito Santo state (Brazil). The Characteristic Values method presented best results in the flow permanence curves regionalization work. It was also concluded that the regional indicators represent a simple and consistent alternative for study area reference flows estimation.