Dynamic Changes in Cultivated Land Resources in Xianyang City

Abstract

In this study,the macro-trend,spatial difference and driving factors behind changes in cultivated land area were analyzed using factor analysis based on statistical data pertaining to Xianyang City for 1990 to 2003.The results revealed that the total area of cultivated land and the available per capita cultivated land area are currently in a reduction trend,and that this reduction is significantly different from that of different districts.Specifically,the total cultivated land area in the city was reduced by 9.45×104 hm2 between 1990 and 2003,and the average annual reduction was as large as 7.27×103 hm2.Furthermore,the per capita cultivated land area was reduced from 0.11 hm2 in 1990 to 0.08 hm2 in 2003.The primary factors affecting the changes in the cultivated land area in Xianyan City were found to be economic development level,population growth and urbanization level.A multiple regression equation developed based on these results predicted that the cultivated land area in Xianyang City will be under serious pressure during the period from 2004 to 2034.This pressure must be considered when planning the future economic development of Xianyang City.The results of this study provide a scientific basis for the rational use and effective conservation of cultivated land recourses and for achieving sustainable development of agriculture in Xianyang City.