Droughts in Jequitinhonha: demands, techniques and costs of supply in the semi-arid region of Minas Gerais State

Abstract

This article analyzes droughts in the semi-arid region of the Jequitinhonha valley in Minas Gerais State, investigating the demand for water, the techniques used, public organizations dedicated to supply and their costs. Interviews with public agencies and farmers from four municipalities were used. The article concludes that the acute drought of 2012 to 2016 engaged several public agencies in the provision of water, which employed techniques of different costs and effectiveness; it notes that some technical and institutional innovations contribute to reducing clientelism that has historically prevailed in the droughts; even so, the biggest expenses are, still, with the emergency service, mediated by the local power.

Keywords:
Drought; Family farming; Jequitinhonha; Semi-Arid; Public programs