On the base of an inventory three economical criteria (Internal Rate of Return, Net Present Value and Benefit Cost Ratio) were calculated to analyze the economic results of plantations of Acacia mearnsii and Pinus sp and a grass cover on degraded areas in Mina de Recreio (COPELMI Mineração S.A), in Butiá, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The plantation of Acacia mearnsii with a rotation age of 5 years was found as the economically optimal variant.
degraded areas; Acacia mearnsii, Pinus sp; grass; economic analysis
