Kinross Paracatu, in partnership with local NGO Movimento Verde de Paracatu and the State Institute of Forestry (Instituto Estadual de Florestas – IEF), is investing nearly US$135,000 in water springs around the region. The preservation initiative involves fencing springs that flow into Paracatu’s watershed, which is expected to revitalize soil and vegetation in the surrounding area, as well as protect the springs. In 2013, over 30 water springs were enclosed.
In addition to the fencing and enclosure materials provided by Kinross and IEF, the land owners were also given flow monitoring equipment to oversee the effectiveness of the program. The initiative also includes spring education programs, soil conservation practices, and environmental legislation for rural communities.
Other added benefits to the area have included decreased water turbidity (cloudiness) and erosion.
