Transformation in the traditional swidden agriculture systems in the atlantic forest of brazilian southern coast

Abstract

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/1807-1384.2014v11n2p183

This paper aims to understand the changes in the traditional system of swidden agriculture on the coast of Santa Catarina State over the past four decades. The research was developed by traditional farmers, residents of two watersheds in the municipality of Biguaçu-SC. The sampling unit was the property where the key-informant selected by the snowball method lies. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, participant observations and guided-tours for data collection. The analysis of data gathered through the Atlas.ti software of descriptive statistics and multivariate analysis of principal components. The data were interpreted based on the historic line of occurrence. The research found that the management performed by the local population is based on periodic driving of agricultural and forestry crops, a system of rotation with fallow periods. The main agricultural crops used were cassava, bananas, maize, coffee and sugarcane, but currently only the cassava has had strong expression. For all phases of the management, farmers had specific knowledge of reading the landscape and forest dynamics. Changes in agricultural policies and management of native forests have directly affected the local system in the watersheds studied. The local population has intrinsic relationship with the native forest resources and their traditional system and way of life must be respected and valued.