Geoenvironmental mapping and integrated analysis of the units within a protected area: municipality of Delfinópolis and the Serra da Canastra National Park, Brazil

Abstract

Geoenvironmental mapping stands out as an essential tool in the identification and delimitation of regions with similar characteristics because it quickly and efficiently directs management departments towards solutions for the demands of each area. This study aimed to analyze the contribution of geoenvironmental mapping in improving the characterization of the management areas of Serra da Canastra National Park. The nine geoenvironmental units obtained in the area mapping in a previous study for the first time were compared with the management zones of the park. In addition, the legal restrictions on land use and land cover were assessed against the real situation to establish the degree of degradation of each geoenvironmental unit, based on the application of the Anthropogenic Transformation Index. The analysis of the units showed that the physical characteristics of the intangible zone and the temporary occupation zone of the park are compatible with one of the geoenvironmental units. Regarding the permanent preservation areas, none of the geoenvironmental units fully complies with the legislation. According to the Anthropogenic Transformation Index, two units are slightly degraded, two units are degraded, and the other five units show regular level of degradation.