ABSTRACT
This chapter examines drylands as a renewable economic resource. As discussed in previous chapters, dryland management involves a complex interplay of physical, climatic and human factors. Patterns of dryland use range from those of nomadic pastoralists to subsistence farmers to highly commercial farming or ranching operations. Each group will respond to management options and environmental stress differently. Even though drylands are potentially renewable economic resources, their fragility makes them more susceptible to over-exploitation and degradation. This chapter examines these issues within an economic framework and considers various options for improved land management practices.
