Guidelines for Constructing Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium Balances in Historical Agricultural Systems

Abstract

Changes in cropland intensification and extension and their socioeconomic consequences have been a topic mainly investigated by agrarian historians. Results of the nutrient balances of these historical agricultural systems with relatively closed nutrient cycles might have played an important role because long-term sustainability only is achieved when the replacement of nutrients match those harvested. Thus, the analysis of the nutrient balance of specific historical agricultural systems or management practices has been the focus of agrarian historians. However, many of these nutrient balances have failed to take into account specific processes of importance. In this study, we provide a guideline for constructing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium balances in historical agroecosystems at both crop and aggregated scales. A rationale for explaining the processes involved and the variables that must be taken into account is provided. We also apply the model for specific crops at a parish scale using a case study from 1752. In addition, we provide the basis for linking a specific outcome of the nutrient balance with the long-term sustainability of specific crops.

Keywords:

• historical agroecosystems
• nutrient balance
• sustainability

Acknowledgments

This research was made possible by the financial support of the Ministry of Education and Science, National R&D/Innovation Programme; HUM 2006-04177, entitled: “History and sustainability: Recovering traditional management for the design of sustainable agrarian systems, the olive grove in Andalusia (XVIII-XX)” and HAR2009-13748-C03-03 “Agrarian and landscape transformations, 1752-2008. A contribution to the study of the socioecology transition in Andalusia.”