Implementation of guided interpretive trail and production of educational material as subsidy for environmental education actions in Araras (SP)

• Grant number: 12/06449-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2012
• End date: December 31, 2013
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Agronomy - Rural Extension
• Principal Investigator: Rodolfo Antônio de Figueiredo
• Grantee: Steve de Oliveira Costa
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Agrárias (CCA). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). Araras , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The region of Araras, SP is inserted into an agricultural production belt. Due to the importance of agriculture in the region of Araras and their possible impacts on the remaining vegetation, a valuable tool arises as an ally of biodiversity conservation: the interpretive trails. The present work talks about the implementation of an interpretive trail dedicated to environmental education in the city of Araras, SP. A field survey will be the basis for identification of the best access to areas of potential interest. Information about the diversity of natural and built environments in Araras will be organized and then ecological points and a roadmap for visitors will be selected and be part of the interpretive trail. The method to be used for the creation of the trail is the Attractiveness Indicators of Interpretive Points, which facilitates the selection of points with the same theme in the interpretive trail, and make the choice less subjective by using indicators that reflect the attractiveness of the site. On the implementation of the roadmap, interpretive points along the route will be highlighted, in which reflection and discussion of relevant topics shall be focused. The implementation of interpretive trails aims for the recovery and conservation of biodiversity, as well as for the education of the local population on the importance of preserving regional biodiversity in an anthropized landscape as the one that is found in the region of Araras, SP. (AU)