The effects of river impoundment on artisanal fishers in the Middle Tocantins River, Brazil

Abstract: Aim The present study investigated the social impacts caused by the construction of a large hydropower dam (Lajeado Dam) on artisanal fishers in the Middle Tocantins River, evaluating how the impoundment affected fishing techniques (locations, transport and gears), operation (income, effort and costs), and fisher’s well-being. Methods The study interviewed 30 artisanal fishers (Colony Z-04, Porto Nacional, TO) between August and October 2018 with the application of a structured questionnaire. Results Results indicated that fishing is socially important as a source of income and occupation, carried out essentially by men with low levels of formal education. Fishers reported, however, significant changes in the fishery system after the impoundment of the Tocantins River. The main fishing area was maintained, but fishers abandoned some sites. There were significant changes in fishing equipment, with an increase in the use of aluminum boats and outboard engines, and a reduction in the use of various gears, replaced by the use of gillnets. Almost all fishers (96.6%) declared that fishing effort and the financial costs increased after damming. Many also reported an increase in financial income (70%), but part reported a decrease, no change or could not say. The majority reported that the impoundment damaged the fishing activity (80%) and their well-being (individual and their families; 83.3%); dissatisfaction with the profession also increased. Conclusions Results indicated that the impoundment created by Lajeado Dam impacted several aspects of artisanal fisheries in the Middle Tocantins, with a wide perception of damage, which indicates that working conditions of fishers have declined. This information is relevant and can support fisheries management in the Tocantins River Basin, in order to balance societal demands with sustainability goals and fisher’s needs.