Terraced landscapes characterization. Developing a methodology to map and analyze the agricultural management impacts (Monte Pisano, Italy)
Résumé
Mediterranean terraced landscapes are mainly shaped by agricultural drainage systems. They are increasingly exposed to degradation because their management has been neglected since the 1960s. The aim of this research is to characterize slope-lands drainage systems, at the landscape scale, in a hilly Mediterranean area, in order to define action priorities for their active conservation. The selected study area covers 62 km2 on the southwest side of Monte Pisano (near Pisa, Tuscany, Italy) mainly dedicated to olive growing. The methodology is GIS-oriented and uses remote-sensing techniques. Main results are new management guidelines for these rural landscapes to ensure their agro-environmental functionalities.