Farming practices and policy measures for agricultural soil conservation in semi‐arid Mediterranean areas: The case of the Guadalentín basin in southeast Spain

• DOI: 10.1002/ldr.1013
• Publication Date: 2010-06-04T04:09:59Z
• Authors: J. Calatrava; G. G. Barberá; V. M. Castillo
• Keywords: Conservation Agriculture; Soil Quality; Mediterranean Basin; Intensive farming

Abstract The objective of this paper is to analyse the adequacy and effectiveness farming practices agricultural soil conservation policies in Murcia Region sector Guadalentín basin southeast Spain. This area constitutes one most severe cases land degradation Europe. representative Spanish Mediterranean areas where predominant semi‐arid dry‐land mixed with highly profitable intensive irrigated horticulture. Based on interviews farmers, experts, governmental officers other stakeholders, we first identify main processes soils, as well used proposed practices. Then different policy options available for both non‐irrigated agriculture their capacity address area, making specific recommendations design implementation. Our findings show that, although have fostered some adoption less tillage, structures water quality control, there still plenty room extending these introducing new measures, such vegetation covers or strips, reducing fertiliser application applying exogenous organic matter. We also conclude that existing measures should be better adapted regional conditions, whereas others further financed. Even so, will limited without stricter sustainable use, rural development policies, together education population farmers. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.