“O RIO É A MINHA VIDA”: REPRESENTAÇÕES DE RIBEIRINHOS DA VILA VISTA ALEGRE SOBRE O RIO BRANCO NO SUL DE RORAIMA, BRASIL

Abstract

Purpose: To understand the representations of residents about Rio Branco, emphasizing social aspects (experience, beliefs and economic importance) in the context of Vila Vista Alegre, municipality of Caracaraí, in Roraima. Theoretical framework: the Amazon riverside people built their way of life around water, making the local natural resource essential to their existence. Water, in addition to being essential to human existence, can also be the main alternative for economic activity, leisure and transport of this population. Method/design/approach: Interviews were carried out using a semi-structured questionnaire using the “Snowball” technique, with the resident who had lived in the area as the initial interviewee, with the data being worked through content analysis. Results and conclusion: The environmental modifications mentioned by the residents have caused changes in fishing spots, as well as in all the old dynamics of this social group, which point to the absence of projects that help in the conservation of it is necessary to include residents in decisions regarding the conservation actions of this water resource, together with environmental agencies, due to their active participation in the emergence of the community. Research implications: The approach involves socio-environmental aspects of a riverside community that coexists with threats from anthropic activities to the Branco River, an essential water source for the maintenance of the material and cultural systems of this social group - fishermen from Vila Vista Alegre. Originality/value: The discussion about the use of water resources by residents, highlighting the meaning of this ecosystem, their beliefs and the environmental damage they perceive, will enable the correct direction of the responsible bodies and public policies for environmental education.