Conexões entre o saber local e o científico sobre um fragmento de floresta ciliar na zona da Mata Norte de Pernambuco

Abstract

This research uses an ethnoecological approach to investigate the knowledge of the residents from district Macujê, city of Aliança, Pernambuco, about the fragment of Atlantic Forest "Forest of Guararema”. The objectives were: clarify the possible relations between forestry and ethnoecological research; describe and evaluate the reports of the target population about their relationship with the fragment "Forest of Guararema," including a historical perspective; set up a comparison of information from local (obtained from the target population) and formal (academic) knowledge about the forest; systematize information on the student´s perception (youth and adults), from a school of the district Macujê, in relation to the "Forest of Guararema”. In this sense, for collection and analysis from the non-school informants data, were used techniques of oral history, content analysis, open interviews, conducted tours, timelines and free listings. In the case of research conducted at school, with students, the application of generating questions, collective drawing of a map and discussion techniques were used. The local non-school informants indicated that they were excluded from the association with the forest because of the conservation model implemented by state agencies and the sugarcane industries in the region. However, the students tended to have a "conservationist" vision about the forest fragment (in which the human being is a mere spectator of nature), suggesting the interdiction of resources use activities, which they considered degrading. From the results it was possible to deepen the understanding of forest uses and knowledge by local human population, as well verify that the interaction of forestry technicians and researchers with a system of non-academic knowledge can be a tool for enhancement of local knowledge and also for the advancement of scientific knowledge. It stands out in this sense that the information gathered in this dissertation can contribute to the development of forest conservation strategies appropriate to local socio-cultural reality.