Agricultural systems and livestock concentration in the region of Emilia Romagna (Italy)

A GIS multi-temporal analysis of the rotational importance of grassland, obtained by remotesensing, and livestock concentrations was conducted on farming systems of an area of the Po plain(Piacenza, Parma and Reggio Emilia provinces in the Emilia Romagna region), highly specializedfor dairy and salami products. The analysis has revealed local levels of farming intensificationthat could be detrimental, on a long-term basis, to the environmental compatibility of farmingsystems. However, the existence of specific regulations for milk production for Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, including the ban on feeding of corn silage, has been a key factor formaintaining a sustainable farming system in the area of origin of the typical cheese. Swinebreeding was specifically addressed as a critical factor for farming systems modification.