Water safety in the São João da Ponta Extractive Reserve - Mocajuba River (PA)

Abstract

Access to water for human consumption is essential for maintaining the life quality in both rural and urban environments, however, it depends on a set of policies involving sanitation, city development, the environment, water resources, and agriculture. This study aimed to evaluate the multiple uses of water and the associated water security in the area of the Extractive Reserve of São João da Ponta (Mocajuba River Basin, Amazon Atlantic Coast, Pará State). The methodology adopted was theoretical-practical with data collection (secondary and primary) in the municipal headquarters of São João da Ponta and the community of Jacarequara. In assessing the potential for rainwater harvesting were adopted the procedures of NBR 15527. Water consumption in the productive sector was characterized by: 12,699 m³.ha^-1 (agriculture production); 40,644 m³.day^-1 (livestock); with social demand of 146 l/hab.day^-1. The use of rainwater is feasible for small communities, but needing technical guidance and financial support for its implementation. There is a demand for consumption that justifies the discussion of preventive water security, mainly by access to water appropriate quality and quantity, with the strengthening and/or implementation of land management actions that prioritize the guarantee of water availability.