It attempts to protect the environment of a region of forest and flooded fields close to the state capital, Macapá, and also to preserve the values and culture of the traditional population, which is of African descent.

[4] One account says the settlement was founded about three centuries ago by a settler of African origin, Sr. Miranda, his wife and seven slaves, all brothers, who decided this would be a good place to raise cattle.

Another says the Vila do Curiaú and other communities in the region were settled in the 18th century by slaves who revolted and fled from construction of the fortress of São José de Macapá.

[3] The goal was to prevent damage to the ecosystems of the Curiaú River basin due to the unplanned urban expansion of Macapá, and to preserve the social values and culture of the quilombo residents.

[2] On 15 September 1998 law 0431 repealed decree 1417 and recreated the Rio Curiaú APA with changed boundaries, reducing its area by about 1,324 hectares (3,270 acres).

[3] The management board of the APA was created by state decree 3099 in 2001, and includes representatives of public authorities and of organized civil society.

[3] They have poor drainage but constantly receive fresh sediments during periods of flooding, and are suitable for growing rice and natural pastures.