History of land use around Zsigárd (Žihárec) village (Mátyusföld region, SW Slovakia)

Abstract

Mátyusföld region in Slovakia’s lowland is currently an area under intensive large-plot agricultural farming, providing the majority of the country’s grain production. In the past, this area was a flooded, swampy landscape that was not suitable for grain production. Our goal is to reconstruct the land use history of Zsigárd (Žihárec) settlement and its surroundings with the help of historical sources and contemporary maps, as well as interviews. Interviewees (22 local inhabitants, aged between 66 and 85), had experienced traditional, extensive farming during their childhood in the period between World War II and co-operatives (1945–1959). According to archive sources, it was pastoral cattle farming that adapted to the unpredictable water regime with outstanding economic results. In order to avoid the constant risk of flooding, river regulations were carried out in the 18th century. These works led to gradual drying out of the region. The destruction of (semi-)natural habitats, the reduction of woodland cover and the extension of industrial farming have become determinant. For local people, landscape change also has economic, conservation and aesthetic consequences: in addition to the safety of arable farming, they are also experiencing the disappearance of wetlands (flats) and a drastic loss of biodiversity. Understanding these processes and the land-use history of the area can deliver an opportunity for reconstruction activities that could ensure a more sustainable use of the landscape.