RDP project database
Preservation of Arable Lands (Erosion Prevention)
Summary
This project creates strips of vegetal cover by planting bushes and sowing a mixture of cereals in order to control soil erosion. As a result, there is also better management of water and more plant diversity.
Background
Some areas of Murcia with permanent crops are seriously affected by soil degradation caused by hydric erosion. Slopes are easily eroded, which along with difficult climatology (heavy rains combined with dry spells) and misguided agricultural management, such as frequent and heavy ploughing, can worsen degradation of the land in the region. The RDP for Murcia includes agro-environmental measures including one designed to combat soil erosion.
Objective
The objective of this project is to carry out an assessment of the current situation in those areas in where the measure "Preservation of Arable Lands" has been implemented.
Main activities
First year: to create the vegetal cover (strips of about 3 meters wide across the slopes, consisted of bushes, cereals and leguminous). Following five years: to maintain the vegetal cover and facilitate wild vegetation. Optional: to crush and add remains of pruning. Economic support is subject to: the use of local vegetation, an appropriate distance between strips, the protection and restoration of containment planks and the prohibition of ploughing toward the slope.
Results & Benefits
The project is focused on arable lands with steep slopes (≥ 8%). So far, 98 farmers have implemented this measure, adding up a total of 1,200 ha cultivated, of which 95% is with almond trees, the rest with olive groves, vineyards and other fruits. Preliminary results show an increase of covered land, preventing erosion through an efficient control of rain water and a progressive settlement of sediments. There are also potential benefits for biodiversity.
Lessons learnt
There is a need to increase awareness of the problems related with soil erosion and the need to use more suitable agricultural practices. In this regard, training is of paramount importance through seminars, courses and technical assistance. There is a strong necessity to improve monitoring, assessment and dissemination of results in order to make its positive impact as widely recognized as possible.
Project location and other information
Basins of Alto Guadalentin river, Rambla de Nogalte river and Mula river.
Region
Murcia
RDP Territory
Murcia
Total project cost (€)
3 009 065
EAFRD contribution (€)
1 233 717
National contribution (€)
1 775 348
Private contribution (€)
0
Contact name
Mariano Sánchez Martín
Telephone
+34 968368381
Languages for contact
Spanish
Document attachment
At a glance
Country
Spain
Final beneficiary type
Individual farmers
Budget range
> €500 000
Start date:
22/09/2008
End Date:
31/12/2013
Theme / Measure:
Environment and Sustainable Resource Management
Sustainable use of agricultural land
214. Agri-environment payments
Keywords:
Agri-environment, Green cover , Rain water, River basin management, Soil erosion
Last update
10/08/2011