The role of grasslands in the formation of structural and spatial order of rural areas

This paper presents structural changes witch took place in Poland as a result of social and economic transformation. In relation to 1970’ and 1980’ it was certify that agricultural lands were significantly decreased (to 16.15 million ha in 2008). Within them arable lands were reduced in favour of grasslands and other lands which are markedly noticed in Carpathian areas. Actually use of grasslands in those areas transcends 40 per cent with regard to whole area, however above 700 m a.s.l. contribution of grasslands pass 65 per cent. Yields of grass biomass from those grasslands were also decreased.