How fragile is it? A GIS-based multicriteria assessment to define management priorities for a Mediterranean terraced system (Tuscany, Italy)

Résumé En

Terraced systems shape the surface water and soil management of many agricultural areas around the Mediterranean coasts. Terraces, especially dry-stone terraces are probably the best-known example of the various agro-hydrological infrastructures that have been developed all over the world through centuries of agricultural activities. In particular, terraces and the like are anthropic modifications that have a permanent impact on the geomorphological stability due to the intense remodelling of steep slopes (Tarolli et al. 2014). By design, agro-hydrological infrastructures require continuous anthropic action to maintain each component, and coordination between multiple actors to maintain the functioning of the overall system. Several studies and research projects have addressed the management of the terraced system, covering various geographic locations and disciplinary or integrative approaches. However, the literature points out two needs yet to be addressed. On the one hand, the co-design of management, to involve heterogeneous land managers acting at different spatial levels with different purposes. On the other hand, the re-design of strategies and practices for agro-hydrological infrastructure management with a system approach. This paper discusses four lessons learned from a co-designed method aimed at supporting different actors and stakeholders in prioritising management practices of a terraced system located in the northern Mediterranean