Accelerated erosion processes on the slopes of the urban perimeter of Jacobina-BA

Abstract

This article aims to present the results of the analysis of soil degradation factors in the urban perimeter of Jacobina. To conduct this research, an extensive bibliographic review on the subject was carried out, along with field activities, mapping of the areas most susceptible to erosive processes, soil sampling, and analysis of chemical and physical properties at the Laboratory of Fertilizer, Soil, and Environmental Monitoring Analysis LTDA (LAFSMA) in Cruz das Almas. The staking method was used in the Pontilhão gully, and three-dimensional modeling through Geogebra® was applied in the Erasmo gully to measure volumetric dimensions and estimate soil mass loss in these areas during the dry and rainy periods from 2022 to 2023. In addition, the QGIS geoprocessing tool was used to create thematic maps. Finally, images of the gully genesis from Silva (2016) were used to compare with the current situation. Based on the results, it was possible to verify that morphological characteristics, inadequate soil use and management practices, aggregate mineral exploitation, and anthropogenic activities were conditioning factors for the increase in erosive processes. Therefore, it is essential to implement continuous monitoring and adopt evidence-based conservation methods and practices in order to effectively mitigate the impacts of this process and promote the sustainability of the affected ecosystems.