Drylands of the Mediterranean Zone: Biophysical Resources and Cropping Systems

Abstract

This chapter focuses on cropping systems at the land bordering the Mediterranean and considers the climatic characteristics of the region where rainfall is the dominant factor for crop growth. It highlights the quantity of rainfall throughout the region, distribution patterns, and the implications of temperature. The chapter also highlights land use, agricultural systems, and soil resources, as they impinge on productivity and conservation practices as well as having impacts on social and economic issues. The chapter provides information on future research needed for sustainable development and use of the Mediterranean zone's drylands. The focus of agricultural research at the global level has been on environmentally favorable areas in countries with temperate climates. The private commercial sector is poorly developed in most countries. Such socioeconomic constraints are often as insurmountable as the biophysical ones, but an understanding of the social context in which farmers operate is essential to effectively using or managing the region's natural resources.