Soil properties relevant to land degradation in abandoned sloping fields in Aisa Valley, central Pyrenees (Spain)

Abstract

A multi-approach characterization of soil properties in abandoned fields in Aisa valley, at mid mountain in the Central Spanish Pyrenees, demonstrated that the soil's own peculiar characteristics are concerned with conservation problems. Aggregate stability and shrinkage tests pointed to a relatively good soil performance due to the aggregating role of organic matter and calcium carbonates. Land degradation in these areas is mainly related to human activity through unsuitable management after land abandonment. -from Authors