This study was carried out to analyze the hydrological and socioeconomic aspects in the hydrographic watershed of Romão dos Reis stream in Viçosa county, Zona da Mata region, Minas Gerais State. In this study, the land use and occupation are emphasized as determinant factors for analyzing water quality, besides physical factors. The watershed was divided into sub-watersheds enabling to choose the representative sites for data collection and analysis. Data on flow rate, water quality, relief, precipitation, landscape (top, hillside and terrace), soil type, social and economic aspects were collected. A digitalized model built from mosaics and aerial photos of the area at 1:30.000 scale was used to draw up the maps. Information on the number of residents and owners as well as their respective cropping systems and watershed occupation were obtained by applying semi-structured interviews in order to get a better understanding of the social organization and management of land use in the farms. Degradation indicators were pointed out, as well as suitable management strategies for environmental improvement that would contribute and ensure the sustainability of the watershed.
Hydrographic watershed; management; forest hydrology
