A APLICAÇÃO DO PROTOCOLO DE AVALIAÇÃO RÁPIDA DO CÓRREGO ACÔGO NO MUNICÍPIO DE ANASTÁCIO - MS

Abstract

This study aimed to observe the conditions of the Acôgo Stream in the municipality of Anastácio, Mato Grosso do Sul. To this end, the Rapid Assessment Protocol (RAP) was used, which helps to understand the conservation status of a river in a simple way. The methodology included: bibliographic review, creation of cartographic products, and fieldwork. Visits were made to five selected points, starting at the source and ending at the mouth. At each point, the natural vegetation, land use, and signs of human interference were observed. During the fieldwork, it was found that the headwater areas of the watershed are quite degraded, with the presence of pastures, bare soil, and little vegetation. In areas closer to the mouth, the riparian vegetation is more preserved, resulting in a balanced environment. The study showed that the RAP is a practical, inexpensive, and easy-to-apply tool, in addition to helping identify points that need restoration and those that are still well-conserved. Overall, it became clear that caring for the riverbanks and restoring native vegetation is essential to protecting water resources and ensuring that the stream remains alive.