The GuardeÁgua app was created to support farmers, technicians, and extension workers in identifying areas with potential for underground dams, contributing to soil water storage and strengthening sustainable agriculture.
The tool allows users to simply and conveniently enter basic soil information—such as texture, depth, and presence of layers—as well as environmental data, such as relief, climate, and geographic location. Based on this information, the app performs an analysis and indicates whether the location is suitable for underground dam construction, in addition to suggesting the most appropriate type of structure.
GuardeÁgua also provides diagnostics and personalized guidance on water, soil, and crop management compatible with the characteristics of the assessed area. In this way, the app contributes to the efficient use of natural resources and the strengthening of water and food security, especially in semiarid regions.
GuardeÁgua also offers, as suggestions, general guidelines on water and soil management and crop options. However, the decision on the most appropriate management and appropriate crops for the planting area of each underground dam is the responsibility of the farming family, in partnership with local development technicians, taking into account the characteristics of the soil and water, the family's interests and the agricultural particularities of the region.