Robustez do sistema socioecológico dos reservatórios Engenheiro Ávidos e São Gonçalo – PB.

Abstract

The problems of the northeastern semi-arid region of Brazil result not only from water scarcity, but also from the absence or inadequate water governance. The study of water governance has intensified, seeking to define ways to mitigate the harmful effects and understand the dynamics of the functioning of a certain affected system. Various analysis methods focused on water governance were designed, emphasizing the importance of developing studies considering this this aspect. In this research, a proposal is presented to analyze the governance of the water system formed by the Engenheiro Ávidos and São Gonçalo reservoirs, belonging to the PiancóPiranhas-Açu River Hydrographic Basin, in Paraíba. The study area has complexities in terms of its institutional aspects, such as dual ownership (Union and State). For the development of the research, socioecological systems, institutional principles, and robustness analysis were used. Considering the application of these methods, it was possible to characterize the elements that make up the water system, understanding its intrinsic characteristics, water users, water managers, current institutional aspects and all its functioning dynamics, identifying positive and negative points. The results show that the system has well-defined institutional aspects, but some difficulties related to its management and predisposition to water stress situations are recorded. The results also show some limitations regarding the implementation of management instruments in the area.