Traditional ditches of Sierra Nevada (Spain): a socio-ecological infrastructure for the conservation of multifunctional landscapes

Abstract

Mountains represent a major challenge for conservation, as they tend to concentrate high levels of biodiversity and cultural landscapes of huge interest linked to traditional and community practices. In this context, the traditional system of ditches of Sierra Nevada Biosphere Reserve (Spain) is a paradigmatic example of a hydraulic infrastructure that articulates ecological, productive, and cultural functions at the landscape scale. The objective of this study is to analyze how five socio-ecological scenarios resulting from rural abandonment and current socioeconomic changes condition the multifunctionality of the landscapes associated with these irrigation channels. To this end, we conducted a literature review and qualitative analysis of the effects that the scenarios of Agricultural intensification, Agrosystems based on traditional knowledge, Strict conservation, Ecotourism, and Sports tourism would have on the ecosystem services associated with the irrigation ditch system if these scenarios were to operate dominantly in the region. The results suggest that the ditches system is a central axis of the socio-ecological system, sustaining services such as water regulation, soil fertility, food production, habitat conservation, and a sense of belonging to the territory. The scenario of Agrosystems based on traditional knowledge best preserves the multifunctionality of the landscape. However, it may need to be combined with responsible Ecotourism activities to guarantee livelihoods for local people. In contrast, Agricultural intensification, Strict conservation, and Sports tourism, with little or no contribution to the maintenance of ditches, seriously compromise this multifunctionality. This analysis underscores the importance of developing conservation approaches that consider the complexity of socio-ecological systems, which is key to integrating biodiversity, human well-being, and social justice. Innovative instruments, such as payments for environmental services, can support this process by highlighting the asymmetries between those who maintain the landscapes and those who benefit from them.