Determinants of land use change in Fars province, Iran

Land degradation and low agricultural productivity are among major negative impacts of changes in land use in many developing countries. This paper reports the findings of research investigating dynamics of changes in land use in the Fars province, Iran. The survey research was used to study land use changes in Shiraz and Sarvestan counties of this province to investigate causes and consequences. Data from 60 Dehyars (village heads) and 257 farmers (n = 317) in 60 villages were compiled and analysed using stratified random sampling. Results indicate that the area of agricultural lands in the villages studied increased significantly in the 30-year period under study. Analysis showed that population growth, distance to service centres, mean of temperature, controllability of production resources, social pressure and increased land price constitute the major determinants of land use change. It is suggested to establish a systematic and comprehensive planning process for land use management that can be promoted through the extension process.