Spanish Agriculture: Modernization and Challenges
Structural Specialization and Production
Modern techniques like mechanization, fertilizers, pesticides, transgenic crops, and intensive irrigation have transformed Spanish agriculture. Intensive farming is prominent on the Mediterranean coast, while extensive farming persists inland. This shift has led to increased production and revenue but also environmental concerns like water over-exploitation and land degradation. Subsidized spring sowing and fertilization are common in Castilla La Mancha and Aragon.
Crop Production:
- Cereals: Grown for human consumption, livestock feed, and biofuel, primarily in the drylands of the interior.
- Legumes: Used in rotation with cereals to fix nitrogen in the soil.
- Grapes: A traditional Spanish crop, experiencing growth due to technical advancements.
- Olives: Drought-resistant and prevalent in Andalusia and Catalonia.
- Other: Horticultural, industrial, and forage crops.
Livestock Production
Traditional mixed farming has given way to specialized meat or milk production. Intensive livestock farming, with housed animals and feed, is gaining prominence over extensive grazing. This intensification has led to increased farm sizes and higher headcounts, particularly for bovine (beef in the north and mountains, milk in the north and Andalusia), sheep (transhumance and stabling), swine (extensive and intensive), and poultry (concentrated around processing centers).
Agricultural Policy and the CAP
Efforts to modernize land ownership and consolidate farms have been accompanied by trade protection measures. Spain’s integration into the EU and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) led to trade liberalization and modernization efforts. However, challenges remain, including pricing issues, surpluses, environmental degradation, and regional disparities.
Castilla-Leon: A Case Study
Castilla-Leon’s natural environment presents unique challenges for agriculture. The region faces a declining agricultural population, average property sizes, large farms, and a distinct agricultural landscape. Agricultural policy focuses on consolidation, CAP implementation (with quotas and competitiveness issues), and rural development initiatives to diversify economic activities.
Rural Challenges and Policy:
Castilla-Leon grapples with depopulation, the need for further agricultural modernization and diversification, and environmental degradation. Rural development policies address these issues by promoting early retirement and training, improving economic conditions, and providing essential equipment and services.