Indicadores de sustentabilidade para a gestão do manancial de abastecimento público de Oliveira, MG

Abstract

In recent decades it has been seen a reduction in the availability of fresh water in the world. Due to the increase in demand for water caused by population growth. In order to achieve balance between supply and demand for water, it is necessary the implementation of sustainable practices related to appropriate conservation and management of soil and forests, mainly in areas of water production, as well as its sustainable consumption. Faced with this situation, the management of water resources has been important, because through it is possible to regulate the use and ensure the protection of these resources. The study area is corresponds to the sub-watershed of Córrego dos Bois, located in Oliveira Municipality, MG, considered the main water fountainhead supply the city. The aim of this study is contribute to scientific knowledge about the characterization of this subwatershed, with the development of sustainability indicators. The Thesis was separated into three articles. Article 1 presents classes of land use and occupation, the definition of permanent preservation areas and the identification of conflict occurrence between land use and legislation. In article 2 was identified soil classes, the capacity of use and agricultural suitability of land. Article 3 identified and characterized the main social, economic, institutional and environmental aspects, through interviews with landowners and property lessees located in drainage area of the sub-watershed.The results showed that the total area of the sub-watershed Córrego dos Bois is 1540.18 hectares, of which 40.70% is occupied by pasture, 35.84% by coffee plantation and 18.84% for native vegetation.The conflict of land use and occupation in areas intended for preservation corresponds to 25.58% of APP territory, indicating the presence of human activity in the areas legally protected by environmental law.The most common conflictive use of APP is the pasture. Around 70% of the subwatershed has good or regular suitability for tillage, in one or more management levels. This ability may be enhanced with higher investment in researches, plant breeding and practices of soil and water conservation. It was concluded that is necessary the adequacy of land use in the sub-watershed in order to reach a sustainable development model that allows the enhancement of agricultural production and ensure the natural resources conservation, mainly the soil protection and water production. It is also important to the participation and awareness of landowners and property lessees, the engagement of population and implementation of environmental policies.The developed sustainability indicators will be able to assist decision makers about possible public policies to be implemented for the management of water resources.