Interferências do uso turístico na qualidade ambiental de lagoas costeiras do litoral norte do Rio Grande do Sul

Abstract

The state of Rio Grande do Sul, located on south of Brazil, presents in its coast a unique mosaic of ponds in the world, which had their origin on the different variations of the sea level during Pleistocene and Holocene periods. Lakes are a major attractions for tourist destinations. On the North coast of Rio Grande do Sul, a study region, some ponds are used for supply, irrigation of rice plantations and tourism, presenting big potential to develop several touristic activities and attractions for visitors. The present study aims to determine the environment quality of three coastal lagoons in Rio Grande do Sul, being guided by the following problematic: which interference resulting from the touristic use modify the level of environmental quality in Lagoa da Fortaleza, Lagoa da Rondinha and Lagoa do Cipó? To get to this objective, interviews with responsible managers of the Tourism and Environment Secretaries were made, to characterize the tourism activities of the three objects of this study and the use of their ponds. It was also used a field protocol to identify on these places the environmental interferences due tourism. The protocol consists of five variables (1) Damages to Flora and Fauna, (2) Soil Erosion, (3) Water Resource (direct) Damages, (4) Infrastructure, (5) Environmental Education, in a total amount of 29 questions, which analysis made possible to determine the environmental quality. To these questions were, still, assigned weights according to its resolutions in short, medium and long terms. The result showed that all three ponds have intense flux during summer. Lagoa da Fortaleza and Lagoa da Rondinha were classified as Bad quality and Lagoa do Cipó was classified as Regular. This classification is justified by the interferences such as the presence of traces of fire, use of 4x4 vehicles that cause damages to vegetations and dunes, presence of buildings, water sports pollutants, and a lack of environmental education actions on the pond. However, a greater participation of public administration in organizing and planning activities in the lagoons, would reduce the problems seen on field.