Profile of rural properties with dairy production and its reflexes in the future: health problem and water contamination

Abstract

Crop protections have a great dispersion capacity, consequently human exposure to these chemicals can cause several diseases. Thus, this study aimed to present data on rural properties with dairy production in the Taquari Valley in relation to the use of crop protections associated with health problems and water contamination. All participants were interviewed, determined the Quality of Life (QoL) by Whoqol-bref instrument and collected water for physical-chemical analysis. Of the 86 rural producers interviewed, 79 make controlled application, 11 of which do not control the application in the vicinity of wells, streams and improvements. Only three producers use crop protection products without control close to water courses and four do not use crop protection products on the property. The overall average QoL of rural producers was considered adequate for all domains, being above average. Regarding the physical-chemical parameters, the water destined for human consumption presented compliance with the legislation. However, for total and thermotolerant coliforms, water was considered unfit for human consumption, not complying with the legislation. Raising awareness of a better quality of life for rural producers, minimizes risks to human and animal health and the environment, ensuring quality of life for future generations.