Figure 2.4.10: Change in the area of double crops and total crops, 2000/01–2010/11.
double crops Source: Volante and Paruelo 2015
on water and biogeochemistry; soils under eucalyptus plantations become more acid (Jobbágy and Jackson 2003). In addition, the establishment of tree plantations has had striking effects on evapotranspiration, increasing it by up to 80 per cent (Nosetto et al. 2005). There are also qualitative changes to the land associated with animal grazing. Grazing leads to changes in the vegetation and structure of grasslands (Rusch and Oesterheld 1997; Chaneton et al. 1996; Sala et al. 1986; Lavado and Taboada 1985).
In the Andean highland ecosystems, the destruction of the natural vegetative cover leads to species loss and lack of soil protection. Tilling and short fallow periods after cultivation, together with soil compaction and trampling by cattle and sheep, lead to irreversible soil disturbance, reduced water infiltration, storage and water regulation capacity, and eventually erosion (Hofstede et al. 2014; Young 2009; Young and León 2007; Buytaert et al. 2006; Poulenard 2004; Podwojewski et al. 2002; Hofstede 1995; Verweij 1995). Furthermore, the use of fire to provide fresh fodder has a
