Agricultural Landscapes and Rural Dynamics in Spain
Physical and Human Elements of Spanish Agriculture
The Natural Environment
a) Relief: Spain’s terrain is characterized by high altitudes and significant erosion, which makes mechanization challenging.
b) Climate: Much of the land experiences low and erratic rainfall, frequent storms, and hail. Temperatures are extreme, and aridity is common.
c) Soil: The soil quality is generally poor, and many areas suffer from erosion, reducing fertility.
The Agricultural Structure
Traditional Agrarian Structure: Historically, Spanish agriculture relied on a large workforce and outdated technology. Yields were low, and production was primarily for subsistence.
Current Agrarian Structure: Today, the agricultural sector is characterized by a sparse and aging population, a progressive increase in farm size, and the incorporation of technological advances.
Agricultural Uses of Rural Areas
Farming: Traditionally based on polyculture and extensive farming, yields were low, and production was oriented towards local consumption.
Recent Transformations in Agricultural Structure
a) Specialization: Agriculture is increasingly specialized, focusing on the most suitable products for each region.
b) Modern Techniques:
- Use of selected seeds and genetically modified (GM) crops.
- Increased consumption of pesticides and fertilizers.
- Widespread use of machinery.
- Implementation of techniques to overcome natural limitations.
c) Intensive vs. Extensive Farming: Intensive farming is gaining prominence due to a reduction in fallow land in dry areas and the expansion of irrigation.
Fallow: Fallow is a traditional practice where land is left to rest for a period. In Spain, fallow areas have decreased due to the adoption of environmental fallow seed, shortening the rest period. While fallow land distribution varies, it can reduce farm production in affected areas.
Irrigation: Irrigation is an agricultural practice that provides additional water to crops beyond rainfall.
Agricultural Landscapes of Spain
Wet Spain
Encompasses the north and northeast of the peninsula. Characterized by hilly areas, an oceanic climate with abundant rainfall, a sparse and aging population, and scattered settlements in villages and parishes. Farms are typically small, and land use is primarily for livestock.
Interior Peninsula
Includes both plateaus and the Ebro depression. Features flat relief, high average altitude, and a Mediterranean climate. The population is sparse and aged, concentrated in small towns in the Douro Valley. Holdings vary in size, with agricultural, livestock, and forestry activities.
Mediterranean Region
Covers the Mediterranean coast, Guadalquivir Valley, and Balearic Islands. Characterized by hilly terrain, coastal plains, and meadows near the coast. The population has decreased due to rural exodus, with scattered settlements except in coastal areas. Land use is primarily agricultural.
Mountain Areas
Characterized by extreme conditions and low population density with dispersed settlements.
Canary Islands
The Canarian Archipelago features rough volcanic relief and a warm climate. The population is declining and dispersed in houses and villages.
Recent Dynamics of the Rural World
Causes of New Rural Uses
- A positive perception of rural areas due to growing “urban malaise” associated with pollution, unemployment, and insecurity.
- A trend towards decentralization of residence, production, and services for lower costs and a more balanced territorial organization.
New Uses in Rural Areas
- Residential: Second homes or weekend getaways.
- Industrial: Relocation of factories seeking cheaper labor or raw materials and exploiting rural resources.
- Tertiary and Infrastructure: Department stores and recreational facilities associated with the desire to enjoy nature.
Consequences of New Uses
Positive: A more balanced distribution of population and economic activity, breaking the traditional rural-urban divide.
Negative: Potential loss of agricultural identity, environmental degradation, competition for resources like water and soil, social conflicts due to differing economic interests and values, and accentuation of territorial contrasts.