ABSTRACT
This research developed a methodology based on remote sensing and geographic information system techniques to build up a database that allows the determination of the agricultural suitability of the part of eastern sector of the Seridó river basin in the Paraíba State. The Geographic Information System - SGI, version 2.5E, was used to create a geocoded database structure. According to the suitability map obtained, three classes were defined as: 3(bc) - restricted suitability for cultivation with the management levels B and C; 5(n) - restricted for natural pasture and not suitable for forestry; and 6 - not suitable for agricultural use, except in special cases, and recommended for flora and fauna preservation and/or for recreation. The results show that the developed approach can be used to support the decision-makers in the planning of social and economic development programs for arid and semi-arid regions.
Key words:
geographic information system; remote sensing; agricultural suitability