Pattern of agricultural and pastoral development under water resource constraints in semi-arid areas: A case study of Tongliao, Inner Mongolia

In semi-arid areas (SAAs) of China, long-term excessive agricultural development has seriously damaged the original functional pattern of agricultural and pastoral development (APD), which gives rise to a series of ecological problems such as lowering of water table, vegetation degradation, and desertification. Converting farmland to pastures is an effective solution to the ecological problems associated with excessive agricultural activities. The purpose of this study was to provide a scientific basis for making a targeted policy on conversion of farmland. Through GIS spatial analysis, the study investigated the current functional pattern of APD in Tongliao and compared it with the pattern obtained under water resource constraints. The results show that excessive agricultural activities are currently taking place in 30 villages and towns in Tongliao, such as the town of Dalin Town. One suggestion is that these 30 villages and towns should be given priority when implementing the policy of converting farmland to pastures in future, in order to coordinate their APD. The findings of the study can offer theoretical support to help achieve coordinated APD in this city.