Land use/cover in the compact agricultural areas of Mexico

Compact agricultural areas in Mexico have been identified, which are monitored as to their behavior concerning production and rural productivity in a network of Agrotech Observatories (AOTs). An AOT is a compact agricultural area representative of agro-ecological, technological and social conditions in the country. A multidisciplinary team of scientists and researchers analyze and define the best production options for the different types of producers in these areas. To optimize production and agricultural productivity in compact areas, a multidisciplinary and holistic approach with four lines of activity (agro-ecological, technological, economic, and social), and ten actions are used. One of them is oriented towards determination of the land use/cover over sixteen compact agricultural areas in Mexico. Currently, it is important to have updated and accurate information to support actions and programs of federal, state and local government for farmers, particularly in compact areas with high agricultural production potential.