Physiological and Hydrological Characteristics of Sagumayon River Traversing Bicol University Main Campus, Legazpi City

Abstract

The Sagumayon River stretches from Daraga, Albay, traversing Bicol University Main Campus at the rear portion, winding through the Albay district area and spilling out into the sea through the Macabalo River. The physical condition and usage of the Sagumayon River has changed drastically through the years because of pollution, climate change, and societal pressures. Considering future expansion, Bicol University has the opportunity to develop unused lots beyond the Sagumayon River in the southern part of its campus. However, flooding of the river during extreme rains poses risk to any future developments in the southern part of the University. This study determined the physiological and hydrological characteristics of the Sagumayon River that can aid in determining mitigation plans and structures that may counteract the effects of climate change. In order to determine the physiological characteristics of the Sagumayon River, the researchers conducted a route, topographical, and hydrological survey on the river. Likewise, float method and equation for velocity and discharge was used to monitor and ascertain the discharge of the river. Monitoring stations were also established to determine the velocity, discharge, maximum flow, minimum flow, and flood occurrence of the river. The section of the river upstream has a small cross-sectional capacity to carry run-off during heavy rainfall and will cause flooding to areas adjacent the river up to a ground elevation of 43.16 m and lower. It is therefore recommended that mitigating structures should be introduced along the bank of the river at risk to flooding and landslides before any development be introduced adjacent to these areas.