Interceptação pluviométrica em eucalyptus globulus no Bioma Pampa em Caçapava do Sul – RS

Abstract

The present study aimed to analyze rainfall interception in Eucalyptus globulus plantation areas within the Pampa Biome, in Caçapava do Sul, RS, Brazil. Framed within the context of forest-hydrology interactions, the study addressed the impacts of forest management on water balance and precipitation-related flows. The research focused on understanding hydrological processes, emphasizing gross precipitation, throughfall, and stemflow, using data collected from rain gauges and field measurement techniques. The results indicated that in 2024, the total cumulative intercepted rainfall was 1,054.22 mm, corresponding to 49.6% of the gross precipitation, while in 2023, this value was 516.32 mm, or 32.2%. Additionally, stemflow accounted for 0.85% of the total recorded precipitation, highlighting its contribution to the hydrological flow. The data revealed the influence of canopy density and seasonal rainfall patterns in shaping the hydrological cycle. Adequate forest management is essential to optimize hydrological benefits in Eucalyptus globulus plantations. Practices such as controlling planting density, maintaining adjacent native vegetation areas, and regularly monitoring soil conditions contribute to reducing excessive water losses and enhancing water infiltration into the soil. These strategies minimize impacts on water resources and ensure the sustainability of forestry activities. The study reinforces the importance of aligning forest management practices with local climatic and hydrological characteristics, thereby maximizing the ecosystem services provided by these systems.