Combining natural and anthropic atributtes for aquifers contamination potential in southeast of Brazil

Abstract

The compromise of surface water resources' quantity and quality, as well as the extensive use of groundwater, exposes aquifers to contamination risks. Considering this, combine natural and manmade influences is a proper strategy for potential aquifer contamination evaluation. This article presents charts of aquifer contamination potential in Rio Claro watershed (251,91km2, in Santa Rita do Passa Quatro, SP) at 1:50,000 scale, taking in account aquifer units, surface geology units, soil and steepness information; operated using multicriteria analysis. The classes “Very high” and “High potential” where the most representative classes of contamination potential in the watershed (performing 46.1% in 1994 and 48.6% in 2014). Obtained contamination potential expressed geological attributes influence in the area. Land use / land cover changes were determinant for higher potential maintenance with time. Adoption of land use / land cover control measures and improvements in tillage management are alternatives for the groundwater protection in this watershed.