Geoconservation at Trilha Ubajara-Araticum geosite, Ubajara National Park, Ceará State, Brazil

Abstract

The Ubajara National Park (PNU) is located in the northwest sector of Ceará state (Brazil), being a natural mosaic composed by rain forest, the main espeological province in the state and the Ibiapaba Glint with the Sertaneja Basin that origins steep landforms of great scenic beauty. The conservation unit also rises as a socioenvironmental research pole though with very few works dealing with geodiversity and geoheritage elements, resulting in a lack of knowledge concerning the nature’s abiotic elements. The present work proposes a geoconservation strategy for the Trilha Ubajara-Araticum geosite, where the stratigraphy of the region is best revealed. The methodology started with the inventory, followed by the quantitative assessment and the valorization proposals. The geosite is considered with national relevance according to all of the criteria used in the assessment, rising as a local for scientific, touristic and educational activities due to its characteristics and low degradation risk. Valorization proposals include interpretative panels, postcards, a touristic route and a graphic book, expressing the diverse environmental approaches possible at the site. These proposals show that geoconservation studies have a purpose, integrating environmental interpretation, environmental education and geocomunication concepts.