Land Management Research Articles

Carbon fluxes controlled by land management and disturbances at a cluster of long-term ecosystem monitoring sites in Central Europe

Carbon fluxes controlled by land management and disturbances at a cluster of long-term ecosystem monitoring sites in Central Europe

Spatial patterns of soil bacterial communities in grazing areas of Southwest Spain.

Spatial patterns of soil bacterial communities in grazing areas of Southwest Spain.

Identifying and understanding how critical landscapes for carbon sequestration respond to development for low carbon energy production: Insight to inform optimal land planning and management strategies.

Identifying and understanding how critical landscapes for carbon sequestration respond to development for low carbon energy production: Insight to inform optimal land planning and management strategies.

Adoption of sustainable land and water management practices and their impact on crop productivity among smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa

Adoption of sustainable land and water management practices and their impact on crop productivity among smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa

Terracing drives Chinese Loess Plateau toward carbon neutrality: Spatiotemporal interaction between land use transitions and SOC storage.

Terracing drives Chinese Loess Plateau toward carbon neutrality: Spatiotemporal interaction between land use transitions and SOC storage.

Dynamic impacts of urban expansion on vegetation growth in urban environments: A sustainable land management framework

Dynamic impacts of urban expansion on vegetation growth in urban environments: A sustainable land management framework

Abandoned mine clusters and their intersection with Indigenous peoples' land rights in Australia.

Empirical research on the intersection of Indigenous peoples and abandoned mines has primarily focused on the impacts of individual, large-scale mines in the settler states of Australia, Canada and the United States. In contrast, research on the extent and effects of dense clusters of relatively small, abandoned mines has been largely overlooked. Australia has 50,000+abandoned mines and their overlap with Indigenous peoples' legally recognised rights to land has not been mapped or quantified. This study presents a novel methodology to map and quantify this intersection using the state of Queensland as a case study. Through spatial data and document analysis, we find that 54.8% of Queensland's abandoned mines are located where Indigenous peoples have rights to land and we identify five dense clusters that warrant further examination. Our findings provide an empirical basis for regulators, mining companies, land use planners and Indigenous communities to address significant policy and practice shortcomings. Recognising abandoned mines as a pressing governance challenge-not merely a historical remnant-is a crucial step towards advancing environmental sustainability, Indigenous land justice, and equitable land management.

Assessment of land degradation neutrality to guide Sustainable Land Management practices in Ethiopia

Assessment of land degradation neutrality to guide Sustainable Land Management practices in Ethiopia

Land use effects in trace element concentrations and bird biodiversity in mangrove environments within a Natural Protected Area.

Land use effects in trace element concentrations and bird biodiversity in mangrove environments within a Natural Protected Area.

Assessment of soil erosion dynamics and implications for sustainable land management: A case study using the RUSLE model

Assessment of soil erosion dynamics and implications for sustainable land management: A case study using the RUSLE model

Estrategias para el fortalecimiento de la gestión de riesgos de desastres en el uso de suelo del área urbana de la parroquia Salinas, cantón Guaranda

The objective of this study is to propose strategies for strengthening disaster risk management in land use in the urban area of ​​the Salinas parish, Guaranda canton; the methodology consisted of a mixed approach, integrating the collection of qualitative and quantitative data through interviews with stakeholders, geospatial tools and analysis of natural hazards, these data allowed to identify vulnerabilities and structure viable strategies for the territory. The main threats that predominate in the parish are landslides (31.82%) and forest fires (37.88%), affecting infrastructure, population and livelihoods, likewise, institutional weaknesses were identified in the regulation of land use and inter-institutional coordination, which increases the vulnerability of the parish. Among the proposed strategies, the updating of the Land Use and Management Plan, the creation of specific ordinances and the implementation of community programs to guarantee sustainable development in the territory are prioritized. Finally, it is concluded that these strategies, adapted to the reality of the Salinas parish, represent an essential step towards the effective integration of disaster risk management into local territorial planning.

Integrating Multi-Variable Driving Factors to Improve Land Use & Land Cover Classification Accuracy using Machine Learning Approaches: A Case Study from Lombok Island

Accurate classification of land cover is essential for effective land management and environmental monitoring. This study aimed to enhance land cover classification for Lombok Island using advanced machine learning algorithms. The models employed include Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, Decision Tree, and Naive Bayes, integrating a wide range of variables, such as Landsat satellite imagery, spectral indices, physiographic, climatic, and socio-economic data. Among these, Random Forest demonstrated the highest model accuracy at 82%, followed by Gradient Boosting at 80%, Decision Tree at 73%, and Naïve Bayes at 61%. In field validation assessments, comparing the predictions of these machine learning models with ground truth data, Random Forest was the most reliable, achieving an overall accuracy of 88%. This superior performance is largely due to the multi-variable approach, which allows the model to mitigate issues like cloud cover in satellite images. The key variables that significantly influenced the land cover classification on Lombok Island include proximity to settlements, temperature, and distance to roads. These results provide essential insights for land management strategies, enabling policymakers and stakeholders to make informed decisions on sustainable development, urban planning, and environmental conservation in rapidly changing landscapes.

Addressing the challenges and unlocking opportunities of Land Administration Management System (LAMS)

The implementation of the Land Administration and Management System (LAMS) under Department Administration Order No. 2010-18 represents a significant innovation in land governance in the Philippines. This study aimed to address the challenges and explore the opportunities of LAMS at the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Lianga, Surigao del Sur, using a quantitative approach with survey data. The research identified key challenges, including technical constraints, inadequate training, insufficient technical support, and system performance issues, all of which hinder effective LAMS utilization. Furthermore, limited personnel training exacerbated these challenges, leaving staff underprepared to maximize the system's potential. The study found that LAMS contributed to more organized and accessible land records, reducing delays and improving service delivery. It concluded that addressing its technical limitations and investing in personnel training are essential for sustaining the system’s benefits. By doing so, LAMS can better fulfill its objective of promoting sustainable development and equitable land management practices. These efforts will address existing gaps, enable smoother implementation, and ensure that LAMS meets its full potential in improving land administration services.

Community stakeholders’ perceptions of tourism impacts and sustainability initiatives

PurposeCommunities must anticipate positive and negative outcomes with the relevant and equitable involvement of stakeholders. Based on stakeholder theory (ST), theory of change and tourism quality of life (QOL) research, this study investigates the perceptions of stakeholders with respect to the impacts of tourism and sustainability initiatives in a destination community.Design/methodology/approachA mixed-method multi-study research approach was undertaken as part of a tourism planning process. Residents, tourists and business leaders responded to a survey to estimate perceptions and evaluations of several variables. Focus groups with nonprofit leaders and public lands managers enhanced the quantitative studies.FindingsAcross measures, stakeholders were different. Business leaders were more positive about the impact of tourism, followed by tourists, then residents. Residents supported sustainability initiatives more strongly than other groups. Qualitative results found that stakeholders perceive the same problems and uplifted collaboration to manage and positively transform tourism.Research limitations/implicationsST and theory of change offered strong theoretical frameworks to study diverse groups in a collaborative tourism planning process. Together, the two theories offer promise for the study of community transformation highlighting the importance of an inclusive approach to citizen engagement and research-based decision-making.Originality/valueThe research contributes to the nexus of stakeholder and social change theories by engaging multiple stakeholder groups in a collaborative, transformative tourism planning process. It positions ST as a transformative theory, especially when combined with social change theory. It demonstrates the ecological validity of the research; findings reflected the actual perspective of people in the community and resulted in actionable recommendations.

Monitoring Land Use and Land Cover Changes in Northeast India: A Case Study of Zunheboto District, Nagaland (1991–2021).

This study investigates the spatiotemporal dynamics of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) in Zunheboto District, Nagaland, over a 30-year period (1991–2021) using remote sensing and GIS-based techniques. Landsat TM (1991) and Landsat 8 (2021) imagery were processed to generate False Color Composites (FCC) and classify six LULC categories: dense vegetation, low vegetation, agricultural land, built-up areas, barren land, and water bodies. Classification was performed using the LANDSAT-I classification system, and area statistics were computed using GIS-based geometry calculations. The results reveal a significant reduction in dense vegetation cover (-29.64%) and water bodies (-34.81%), while agricultural land, built-up areas, and barren land increased by 85.07%, 1046.17%, and 103.71% respectively. The findings highlight the intensifying anthropogenic pressures on natural landscapes, driven by settlement expansion and shifting cultivation practices. The study emphasizes the critical need for integrated land management strategies and sustainable development policies to ensure ecological stability in the region.

Co-constructing and simulating LUCC scenarios for evaluating the sustainability of environmental policies and supporting long-term decision-making

Urbanization and agricultural intensification are major drivers of biodiversity loss due to multiple stressors, including land artificialization, habitat fragmentation, isolation, and degradation. These land-use and land-cover changes (LUCC) also impact water quality, carbon sequestration, and ecosystem services. Designing Blue and Green Infrastructure Networks (BGINs) has been proposed as a strategic approach to land-use planning that enhances ecosystem services while preserving biodiversity and improving water management. This study focuses on the Couesnon watershed (Brittany, France) within the LTSER Zone Atelier Armorique (https://deims.org/31e67a47-5f15-40ad-9a72-f6f0ee4ecff6). A participatory approach was employed to develop five future LUCC scenarios incorporating BGINs. Narrative descriptions were then used as input for the FORESCEM model to simulate LUCC dynamics (Fig. 1 - Houet et al. 2022). The impacts on biodiversity were assessed by evaluating changes in landscape connectivity for woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands using the model developed by Boussard et al. (2020). Additionally, the effects on water quality and quantity were analyzed under LUCC and RCP8.5 climate change scenarios using the model developed by Álvarez-Cabria et al. (2016). The effectiveness of BGIN policies was assessed by comparing current landscape connectivity (2018) with projected connectivity in 2050 and by estimating future water quality. Results indicate that despite integrating BGINs, the projected impacts on biodiversity (Fig. 2) and water resources could still be significantly negative. Key drivers of future agricultural land-use changes and related environmental impacts include evolving CAP priorities, demographic trends among farmers, and climate change. While BGINs are effective in mitigating urbanization impacts, they may not be sufficient at the landscape scale. This study highlights the necessity of systemic environmental policies that foster synergies among different administrative services involved in land management. The current sectoral (or "siloed") organisation levels remain a barrier to achieving land sustainability goals. While LUCC simulations are designed to assist decision-makers in implementing sustainable policies, we examined whether our results effectively support local stakeholders in the Couesnon watershed. We conducted 14 public meetings involving nearly 150 participants, including farmers, policymakers, land and resource management professionals, and students. Surveys and interviews conducted during the meetings and 6 to 12 months later revealed that while scenario-based approaches can influence decision-making, their impact requires time to materialize (Rigo and Houet 2023, Rigo et al. 2024). These findings underscore the need for further research and the importance of effectively communicating scientific insights to support the understanding, monitoring, and sustainable management of socio-ecological systems within the critical zone.

Pengadaan Tanah dalam Pembangunan Hunian Tetap Pascabencana di Kelurahan Talise, Kota Palu

The research provides significant insights for post-disaster regional planning, land conflict management, and agrarian policy implementation in Indonesia. Permanent housing development is a crucial element in post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction. This study examines land acquisition in Talise Village, Palu City, addressing disputes involving the government, a company holding Building Use Rights (HGB), and local communities. The disputes stem from land claims by residents who have cultivated the land for decades without formal ownership documents. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach, this research explores issues of legal certainty, land acquisition policies, and conflict resolution strategies. Findings emphasize the necessity of inclusive agrarian reform, participatory policies, and enhanced transparency in the land acquisition process. This study also highlights the potential of land-sharing concepts to effectively address the interests of stakeholders, including the government and affected communities. Key recommendations of this study are to accelerate land registration, strengthen the management of customary land, and develop adaptive policies for post-disaster needs. These findings aim to support better decision-making in land management in disaster-affected areas.

Assessment of factors affecting land use planning and land use plans in Van Ho District, Son La Province, Vietnam

The study aims to identify the extent to which various factors influence land use planning and land use plans in Van Ho District, Son La Province. The research methods employed include: Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), data processing techniques, and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Data analysis revealed the following results for the implementation of land use plans during the 2021–2023 period: (1) Agricultural land utilization reached 106.1%, 100.37%, and 102.1% over the three years, respectively; (2) Non-agricultural land utilization reached 85.35%, 87.15%, and 60.64% compared to the approved targets; (3) Unused land utilization only reached 34.71% in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected the planned reclamation and conversion of unused land into agricultural, forestry, and non-agricultural production land (e.g., land for other annual crops, production forests). However, in 2022 and 2023, the utilization of unused land reached 108.77% and 124% of the approved targets, respectively. The study also conducted a survey of 150 respondents, including government officials at various levels and experts in land use planning, land management, finance, and related fields. The results identified five groups of factors influencing land use planning and planning activities in Van Ho District, with the following impact weights: (1) Legal and policy factors (0.426); (2) Economic factors (0.240); (3) Social factors (0.151); (4) Environmental factors (0.106); and (5) Other factors (0.077). Thus, policy and economic factors are of greatest concern, while other factors are considered less significant by experts. Identifying the influencing factors and their respective weights will contribute to proposing solutions that build on the achievements of land use planning and implementation, address current limitations, and enhance the effectiveness of land use planning and the role of state land management.

Effects of artificial waterpoints on woody species composition and structure in semi-arid communal rangelands, northern Namibia

The provision of artificial water resources for livestock in communal rangelands in arid environments is a major driver of land degradation. This study examined the impact of waterpoints on woody plant species composition and structure in the Omuntele communal rangeland, Namibia. Fieldwork was conducted during the dry season at three waterpoints within the rangeland. The study employed a randomised block design, with quadrats placed at 50 m intervals radiating from each waterpoint. Results show the effects of distance from waterpoints on species richness, abundance, diversity, and evenness of woody species. The results further reveal variations in woody plant structural attributes across distance from waterpoints. Pearson’s correlation indicated complex relationships between woody vegetation composition and structure, suggesting an interplay between vegetation structural attributes, richness, diversity, and evenness. The findings improved our understanding of ecological dynamics in rangeland ecosystems, particularly concerning how structural variations affect ecological functions. For example, alterations in vegetation structure may have an impact on it’s grazing and browsing value for livestock, and forest resource availability to the local communities. They may also influence biodiversity within the area due to habitat change. These revelations are essential for developing sustainable land management strategies that meet the requirements of communities and their livestock.

Depressions Provide High-Quality Wading Bird Foraging Patches in a Seasonally-Pulsed Wetland

In seasonally-pulsed wetlands, large breeding events of colonial-nesting wading birds depend on the occurrence of foraging patches rich in aquatic prey that are available throughout the breeding season. The seasonal flood pulse and subsequent water recession can elevate prey biomass and density. However, there remains a gap in our understanding of how prey species within the water column are redistributed to create localized high-quality foraging patches during the wading bird breeding season. To better understand the mechanisms that create high-quality foraging patches, we measured prey biomass and density in an experimentally manipulated wetland substrate within the Florida Everglades. We hypothesized that wading bird prey biomass and density would be higher within depressions than in the surrounding wetland. We found that wading bird prey concentrate within depressions throughout the range of water depths accessible to foraging wading birds. Prey biomass and density also peaked at substantially higher levels within depressions than in the unmanipulated marsh surface. Additionally, we found that larger prey (total length ≥ 5 cm), which are an important resource for wading birds, peaked at higher levels within depressions, than in the unmanipulated marsh surface and accounted for greater than half of the biomass in depressions. Our findings provide empirical evidence that depressions are a mechanism for creating high-quality foraging patches for wading birds. Understanding the mechanisms that provide these high-quality foraging patches fills a critical gap in our knowledge and will allow water and land managers to better conserve and restore wading bird populations in seasonally-pulsed wetlands.