Diagnosis and assessment of environmental impacts of a section of the Betim River (Betim, MG), using the Rapid Assessment Protocol (RAP)

Given the scarcity and water insecurity in the country, highlighted in SDG 6, there is a growing concern about the preservation of watercourses, which are often anthropized by impacts caused by land use and occupation, thus compromising not only the tributary but also the river basin. The objective of this study was to perform a diagnosis and assessment of environmental impacts on a stretch of the Betim River, located in the city of Betim, state of Minas Gerais, using the Rapid Assessment Protocol (PAR). The points evaluated along the stretch were selected according to proximity, investigation or direct relationship of use, ecological aspects and impacts, using the Rapid Assessment Protocol (PAR) methodology. With the assessment, it was possible to perceive that the watercourse presented all the points impacted, which generates concern and the need to adopt immediate public policies for its recovery. Thus, the results generated can assist in the elaboration of strategies for planning, preservation and management of the municipality's water resources.