Olive Groves landscape dynamics

Abstract

We present the results and methodology of a project designed to contribute to public policies decision making processes, regarding olive oil production externalities. This research is framed within the Extersial international project (Plan Nacional I+D+i: MICIN), carried out by the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) along with other researchers from different universities and research centres. In order to study externalities such as the preservation of agricultural landscapes, the diminution of the soil erosion or the protection of the agricultural systems’ biodiversity, a GIS – based methodology was designed, relying on physical, natural and agro-systemic characterization of denomination of origin in southern Spain of Sierra de Segura. Main inputs to our model are obtained through the use of geographical information such as satellite imagery, topographic and edaphic maps; indices of the extent and state of vegetation-covered land and flags elaborated through geo-referenced statistical information. This methodology allows for the targeting of marginal olive groves and the evaluation of their suitability for native vegetation regeneration. Thus we have been able to identify main bio-physical, ecological and landscape factors affecting potential restoration of native vegetation, enabling the mapping of marginal olive groves with high and medium potential of regeneration, appropriate for an organised abandonment that would lead to an effective regeneration, helping biodiversity preservation.