THE CONSERVATION OF BIODIVERSITY AND THE ROLE OF FAMILY AGRICULTURE IN THE RIVER CORUMBATAÍ BASIN

Abstract

The Corumbataí river basin is highly relevant since it is the main water supply of the central-eastern region of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Studies on the agricultural status have given priority to remnant forest, hydrology, riparian forests, agricultural matrix and fauna, but fail to take into account the local peasants. Several ecological studies propose such alternatives as the strengthening of public policies, forest aisles, environmental education and the compliance to environmental laws so that the ecosystem related to water may be conserved. However, there is no guarantee of conservation if the rural population seeking better environmental life quality is excluded. Current analysis, foregrounded on an interdisciplinary research, forwards the rural inhabitants´ insistence on environmental issues, mainly water, and the manner such relationship may be incorporated in conservation proposals to solve the current green crisis in the river Carambataí basin. Results show that studies on the relationship between the rural population of the river Carambataí basin and the environment are highly relevant to understand the relationship between man and nature within agricultural scenarios in the state of São Paulo and that conservation should be undertaken in practice. Knowledge and experience of small farmers are essential for their maintenance on the field and for research and self-preservation. Results forward true perspectives for the social and ecological development for the conservation of agricultural landscapes.