Assessment of Groundwater Favorability in the Municipality of São Mateus-ES

Abstract

Purpose: Make an assessment regarding the favorability of exploring groundwater in the municipality of São Mateus. Theoretical framework: Guaranteeing the availability of water regularly and with good quality for everyone, without threatening public health, remains a challenge for the semi-arid regions of the country, especially for diffuse communities in large centers, which do not have adequate water infrastructure. Method/design/approach: The methodology used in the research begins with a bibliographical review on the topic, as well as obtaining data relating to wells registered with SIAGAS E AGERH between the years 2019, 2020 and 2021; creation of cartographic products using ArcGisTM 10.1 software; characterization of aquifer systems in the region; definition of areas with greater favorability for the exploitation of groundwater, as well as the influence of the depth of drilled wells on the flow rates obtained. Results and conclusion: The three aquifer systems defined for the study area were characterized, namely the fractured, Barreiras and Coberturas. The Barreiras aquifer system has wells with higher flows. However, the importance of adequate planning and control by the public authorities regarding the exploitation of water in this system must be highlighted, as, as a result of intensive pumping, salt water can advance into the freshwater zone of the aquifer. Research implications: The advancement of studies regarding the availability and potential of groundwater contributes to the implementation of more efficient management of water resources, as well as promoting the expansion of specific knowledge on how reserves inherent to underground water dynamics are exploited locally. Originality/value: Trazer reflexões a partir da avaliação quanto a favorabilidade hídrica no município de São Mateus, de forma a garantir uma segurança hídrica tanto quantitativa, quanto qualitativa para as comunidades desta região, encontra-se em conformidade com uma das metas da Agenda 2030 para o Desenvolvimento Sustentável.