In this study, a cropping intensity mapping algorithm was developed using MODIS time series imagery with 500-m spatial resolution and 16-day intervals. The spatio-temporal pattern of cropping intensity in China was investigated during 2000-2013. Potential driving factors of cropping intensity changes were further examinedthrough panel econometric methods.
Results/Conclusions
The results showed that the cropping intensity presented obvious spatio-temporal patterns in China from 2000 to 2013. The cropland areas with single-, double- and triple-cropping were 73.11%, 25.96% and 0.93% of the total cropland, respectively. Single-cropping was dominated in Northern China and was relatively stabilization. Double-cropping was dominated in Eastern, Central and Southwestern China, with obvious increasing trend in Huang-Huai-Hai region and significant decreasing trend in both lower reaches of the Yangtze River drainagebasin and Southwest region. Triple-cropping was mainly distributed in southern China with favorable natural conditions, while clear tendency of decrease was detected. Plain area had relatively more gain and less loss in cropping intensity than hilly area. The landscape fragmentation of cropping patterns showed a decreasing trend in China, especially in Huang-Huai-Hai region,lower reaches of the Yangtze River drainage basin and Southwest region, indicating the spatial consistency of cropping intensity increased in these regions. Farmer income, agricultural labor force, mechanical power and agricultural investment were demonstrated positive contribution to cropping intensity. Gross domestic product (GDP) in both the industrial and service sector representing off-farm opportunities were identified as significant negative determinants of cropping intensity change. Unexpectedly, crop price was also estimated negative correlated with cropping intensity, which demonstrated the national agricultural support policy had limited incentives for intensive farming.