Our trip down the Rio das Velhas

Escola Municipal Hilda Rabello Matta sailors' trip took place in Sabara City, Belo Horizonte metropolitan area in Brazil, on November 16, 2001.

On this trip we analyzed many aspects of the river Rio das Velhas' life. We examined the vegetation and animals, the pollution and garbage, and the challenges this river faces due to the lack of attention. We hope to make the problems clear in order to help the community understand what actions need to be taken. We also had the chance to share our findings with people across the world using this exciting technology and look forward to hearing from all of you!

And here we go!!!

The Rio das Velhas starts at the Antonio Pereiras mountain, in Ouro Preto city. It flows through the cities of Itabirito, Rio Acima, Nova Lima, Raposos, Sabara, Belo Horizonte (where our school is located), and Santa Luzia.

The river bay covers an area of almost 4 square kilometers. The 'Rio das Velhas System' provides water for 1.5 million people in the cities of Sabara, Nova Lima, Raposos, Belo Horizonte, and Santa Luzia.