Geospatial analysis of deforestation, land use and impacts of water resources in paragominas, Pará

Abstract

Geospatial data has proven effective in identifying and monitoring deforestation, land use, and water resources in regions with a predominant focus on agriculture and livestock. The purpose of this study was to assess the use of georeferencing in identifying instances of deforestation and land use, and their respective impacts on water resources in Paragominas, Pará, during the years 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2021. The methodology utilized an inductive approach, integrating quantitative and qualitative methods along with field observations. Georeferencing data showed that deforestation has taken place since the establishment of the municipality, resulting in an 83.64% decrease in forest cover. In 2000, the urban area occupied 1,333 hectares and in 2021 it increased to 2,026 hectares. The surface water area decreased by 207.91 hectares between 2000 and 2021. From 2010 to 2021, pastures decreased from 187,561 hectares to 125,229 hectares. Agriculture also evolved from occupying 1,342 hectares in 2000 to 103,162 hectares in 2021. Of the 11 settlement projects, five are completely located within the Uraim river basin, and two others are partially located there. The literature analyzed reveals that water originates from the Uraim River, which runs through rural properties and farming communities such as Colonia do Uraim, resulting in sediment deposition, soil compaction, reduced infiltration capacity, and basin recharge. Furthermore, the right bank tributary, the Paragominas stream, has 1.5 km of developed banks. Spatial analysis utilizing geospatial data is vital for identifying deforested areas and conducting complementary studies on land use, occupation, and water quality. These studies are instrumental in devising natural resource management plans for Paragominas.