Method for evaluating the hydrological heritage of geodiversity: Case study in the Cerrado enclave–Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil

Abstract

The article discusses water as an essential element for life on the planet and the development of civilisations. Hydrology is considered an integral part of geodiversity and is related to geoconservation, focusing on the preservation of abiotic natural resources, which include water resources. In this context, geopatrimony is associated with the preservation of geodiversity and hydrological heritage, which is related to water resources. The article proposes a comprehensive methodology for assessing hydrological heritage, applied in the phytogeographic context of the Potiguar Cerrado enclave at 15 sites of interest. The proposal recognises the complexity of water issues and the need for a quantitative assessment that considers various aspects related to water beyond ecological and physical ones. The proposal is structured to address scientific, sociocultural, aesthetic, and touristic values, and sites with a score exceeding 75 % for aesthetic and/or scientific values are considered as high-value hydrosites. Thus, nine hydrosites were identified. The methodology proved satisfactory in comprehensively assessing water resources, considering their relevance in an environmental and social context.