Influences of agricultural practices on the slope stability of cultivated vineyards

Rainfall-induced shallow landslides affect vineyards cultivated along steep slopes in different European countries, provoking plant destructions, degradation of farm roads and infrastructures, loss of fertile soil. As a consequence of climate changes and of increase in abandoned areas, it is required to find innovative solutions, able to reduce hazards in vineyards without undermining their ecosystem and economic sustainability. Soil inter-row space management could have positive effects on roots distribution and soil reinforcement, resulting practices that could be diffused in wide areas making reduction in the proneness to instability. This study analyzes how different techniques could increase the stability of sloping vineyards. This research, supported by Fondazione CARIPLO AttivAree programme - OltrepòBiodiverso project, was conducted in Oltrepò Pavese North- Western Italy, a hilly area characterized by traditional viticulture on steep slopes, prone to shallow landslides. Different soil management practices tillage, permanent grass cover, alternation of tillage and grass cover were evaluated. Root density and reinforcement parameters were monitored, in relation to shallow landslides, identifying which practices could increase stability of susceptible slopes. This research aims to provide important guidelines for applying sustainable farm practices in unstable vineyards along wide territories reducing hazards, while maintaining better levels of soil biodiversity and fertility.