The parts of northeastern Brazil that are of most concern for the proposed project are those underlain by crystalline Precambrian rocks which represent roughly 50% of the 1 million km2 area that is currently experiencing drought. These crystalline basement areas have relatively low water retention capacity and the groundwater is more or less confined to open fracture aquifers.
The purpose of the mission was to determine the nature of the drought-related problems in that region, the type and extent of Canadian technological assistance needed, meet with prospective Brazilian collaborators, and discuss ways of implementing a useful project with real benefits to the rural communities that are most in need.
The program, elaborated by our host, CPRM, included technical visits and discussions in Fortaleza, the capital of the state of Ceará, and a field trip to Irauçuba about 250 km west of the city and one of the areas that is hardest hit by the drought.
The Brazilian government has responded to the current crisis by introducing emergency measures (food and water distribution, make-work projects, massive drilling of wells more or less at random, etc.) that bring short term relief but do not address the fundamental problems. Two distinct problems, which Canadian technology may help resolve, were identified: (1) the unavailability in the region of most of the modern groundwater exploration tools used elsewhere, and (2) the fact that 80% of the wells drilled in crystalline bedrock produce water that is too brackish for human consumption or for agriculture.
To address the first problem, improving the groundwater exploration capabilities, we proposed to introduce and test modern ground and, if possible, airborne geophysical methods, combined with state-of-the-art remote sensing and hydrological interpretation techniques. With regards to water quality, a more research oriented approach will be needed. This might include groundwater characterization using geochemistry combined with borehole logging and imagery, as well as testing certain techniques such as water mixing and aquifer flushing. Some of these techniques have been used successfully elsewhere, in similar environments. The technologies will be transferred directly to those involved in groundwater exploration, distribution and quality control, including as many as possible of the umpteen private consultants who are contracted by the government to locate well sites in the region. CPRM staff, and the next generation of Brazilian hydrogeologists now enrolled in the earth science departments at the local universities (Fortaleza, Natal and Recife), will also be targeted. Several other institutions involved in groundwater projects and research have shown a keen interest in the CIDA project and will be invited to take part. Some of them (e.g. SOHIDRA) have agreed to take an active role in the follow-up phase of our program.
Much discussion revolved around methods of ensuring that project activities and results benefit those that need the water. The consensus is that community involvement will have to be sought for every activity that will be carried out, both at the planning and execution stages. The best way to achieve this is still somewhat nebulous. The main question that remains is how much input do we need from humanitarian/social (NGO-type) organizations to fully attain this objective. Further discussions on this issue are planned.
Not all issues have been resolved during the December 1998 mission and another round of discussions will be needed and is being planned for late April or May 1999. The December mission was very effective in informing a large number of people about the CIDA project, but there was relatively few one-to-one discussions about specific activities, except perhaps in geophysics. The next mission will focus more on non-technical issues such as cost-sharing and social issues. Visits to other centers, Natal and Recife, will also be included.
Also, within the next month or so, we intend
to officially inform Canadian organizations and the private sector of our
proposed program in Brazil, and call for expressions of interest.
To reach the maximum number of potential Canadian participants and collaborators,
we plan to use the Public Works and Government Services Canada’s source
lists.
Questions? More information? Please contact:
Dr. Yvon Maurice
Coordinator
Canada-Brazil Cooperation
Geological Survey of Canada
601 Booth Street
Tel: (613) 995-4748
Ottawa, Ontario
Fax: (613) 996 3726
Canada, K1A 0E8
e-mail: ymaurice@gsc.NRCan.gc.ca
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