SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ON THE GRAVATÁ RIVER

a study in the district of Engenheiro Schnoor, Araçuaí-MG

Abstract

In this research, discussions are carried out on the social and environmental impacts involving the
Gravatá River, in Araçuaí, Minas Gerais, considering the management of water resources in this portion of the semiarid region. In this sense, this work deals with the Araçuaí hydrographic basin and promotes debates related to the socio-environmental conditions of one of its important tributaries, the Gravatá River. In order to achieve the proposed objectives, a descriptive and qualitative research was carried out through a bibliographical study and a sample survey with three subjects from the district of Engenheiro Schnoor. At the end of the study, the importance of rescuing memories to perceive the socio-environmental impacts and irresponsible practices that are bringing drastic consequences to the Gratavá River and the population. In addition, the use of cartographic bases showed both the importance of the Gravatá river and the risks of neglecting water management. It is also worth mentioning the current scenario of the river, marked by the practice of dumping sewage, eucalyptus plantations in the springs, siltation and long periods of drought.