Diagnóstico ambiental da bacia hidrográfica do córrego do cerrado - município de Canápolis - MG

Abstract

Water is a vital resource, notable for its abundance in Brazil, but it faces sustainable management challenges. The unequal distribution of freshwater creates disparities in access. Environmental degradation, climate change and competition for resources worsen the situation. Understanding environmental aspects is crucial for sustainable management, influencing decisions in urban planning, land use and economic development. The objective of this research was to carry out an environmental diagnosis to understand the dynamics of the Córrego do Cerrado watershed. The intention of knowing and understanding its current state is of fundamental importance, as it describes the characteristics existing in the study area, allows understanding some operating processes, considering the physical, biotic and socioeconomic environments and the interaction between these three elements. To carry out the research, it was important to define some theoretical and methodological procedures, which were essential for executing it in a planned manner, namely: a) research and bibliographic review; b) preparation of thematic mappings, such as location of the municipality, location of the river basin, lithological units, pedology and land use and cover; c) fieldwork; d) data analysis. The environmental diagnosis of the Córrego do Cerrado basin reveals agricultural predominance in 50% of the area, with pasture (26%) and dense vegetation (22%). The lithology highlights the Serra Geral Formation (63.94%) and the Vale do Rio do Peixe Formation (36.06%). Dystrophic and Acriferric Red Oxisols are prevalent, with soil exposed due to agricultural practices. The basin, with 123.79 km². It has a dense drainage network with 48 first-order channels and a 3rd-order river hierarchy. The relief presents an elevation variation of 362 meters, with a moderate roughness index (249.78). The maintenance coefficient is high, indicating good water retention capacity. Urban and agricultural impacts pose challenges to sustainability, highlighting the need for integrated strategies to preserve natural resources and biodiversity. Urban and agricultural impacts generate deforestation, pollution and sustainability challenges, requiring an integrated approach and awareness. It is expected that the results described in this work can stimulate research that contributes to monitoring land use and restoring and maintaining the quality of the area to ensure environmental protection. In addition to helping to manage the river basin by authorities and, with the population being aware of the aggravating environmental impacts, it can also contribute to preserving the environment.