Evolution of the adjustment between olive grove location pattern and agrological capacity in the Andalusian Mediterranean mountains (1956-2007). The case of Sierra de las Nieves: local responses to global factors
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Abstract
The aim of this paper is to relate the evolution of the location pattern of olive groves in a Mediterranean mountain area in the medium term (1956-2007) with the response of peasant societies to changes in factors such as agricultural policies, demographic conditions and the value system. To this end, 1) the agrological capacity (AC) of the study area (Sierra de las Nieves, Betic Systems) is determined, 2) the chronology and determining elements of these changes are specified through bibliography, 3) oral information (semi-structured interviews) is used to understand the farmers’ decisions, 4) GIS is applied to the evolution of land use in 1956, 1977 and 2007 to determine the evolution of the adjustment of the location pattern to the AC. The results show two patterns of adjustment. Between 1956 and 1977, the expansion of olive groves is limited (13.97 ha/year) and in line with the AC, extending on land previously occupied by arable crops. Between 1977 and 2007, olive grove expansion is intense (47.25 ha/year) and affects less suitable land. In conclusion, the analysis of the causes reveals the adaptation of the peasantry to different contexts, from putting status before profitability to giving priority to profitability derived from the subsidy, with AC not being a determining factor.