Heritage or Livelihoods: Risks and Sustainability in Preserving Agricultural Heritage System in Desert Areas

This article investigates the pivotal role of farmers' livelihoods in the conservation and development of agricultural heritage systems. As agricultural heritage systems face endangerment and traditional farming systems expose farmers to various risks, including economic, natural, and environmental, the study aims to fill a crucial research gap. Understanding the impact of these risks, including shocks, trends, and seasonality, on farmers in agricultural heritage sites is essential for sustainable livelihoods and heritage development. It further discussed the relationship between livelihood resources and livelihood outcomes by constructing the analytical framework of risks, livelihood resources, and livelihood outcomes based on the Sustainable Livelihood Framework. Employing a participatory approach, in-depth interviews, Focus Discussions Group (FDG), and qualitative analysis, this research centers on Egypt's vital agricultural cultural heritage, the Siwa Oasis.
This study reveals critical findings concerning the challenges faced by the Siwan community. Farmers in Siwa Oasis experience financial strains due to seasonal income fluctuations tied to their agricultural dependency. To address this issue, diversification into tourism during off-peak seasons is emerging as a promising strategy. Furthermore, the market's unpredictability compels farmers to compromise on date sales, impacting their financial capital. Access to credit remains challenging due to cultural beliefs, affecting cash holdings. The study also highlights environmental challenges, particularly a problematic agricultural drainage system that threatens the region, causing waterlogged areas and endangering agricultural heritage. Concerns about unplanned urban development detracting from the cultural authenticity of Siwan villages are prevalent. While Siwa Oasis has displayed resilience against external pressures, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, there are concerns about cultural commodification and ecological impact. Eco-lodges have an environmental impact, and population growth poses challenges to traditional farming techniques and heritage preservation.
The study contributes valuable insights into the multifaceted dynamics of agricultural heritage systems, offering a foundation for further academic inquiry. Moreover, the findings hold significance for policymakers and practitioners engaged in heritage site management, guiding efforts to sustain and develop these vital agricultural cultural sites. This research provides a holistic understanding of the challenges faced by farmers in similar heritage farming communities and offers lessons on risk management and sustainable livelihoods that can be applied across various cultural contexts.