Perma_Crops_PT: A geolocated dataset for permanent crops in Portugal

Abstract

Crop landcover datasets are crucial for modern agriculture, aiding farmers, researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders. These databases offer extensive insights into crop distribution, facilitating informed decision-making for sustainable practices, particularly under a changing climate. Moreover, these datasets drive research, fostering collaborations and innovation for resilient agriculture. In Portugal, the COS dataset is vital, offering insights into agrarian landscapes and supporting sustainable practices. However, in recent versions, since 2007, information on permanent crops has been aggregated, necessitating complementary datasets and tools. The current paper addresses this gap by providing an open-source dataset focusing on perennial crops in mainland Portugal. Based on the 2019 agricultural census from the Portuguese Statistical Institute (INE), this dataset contributes to the spatial understanding of permanent crop distribution, being freely available for researchers, farmers and policymakers. The dataset includes a selection of perennial crops commonly cultivated in Portugal, such as Prunus dulcis (Almond), Malus domestica (Apple), Castanea sativa (Chestnut), Ceratonia siliqua (Carob), Prunus avium (Sweet Cherry), Vitis vinifera (Grapevine), Olea europaea (Olive), Citrus limon (Lemon), Citrus sinensis (Sweet Orange), Juglans regia (Walnut), Citrus reticulata (Mandarin), Prunus persica (Peach), Pyrus communis (Pear), and Prunus domestica (Plum). Further information regarding the Administrative Units of each crop is also available. This comprehensive list provides a detailed overview of the types of permanent crops included in the dataset, offering valuable insights into the Portuguese agricultural landscape.

Keywords

• Geospatial analysis
• Permanent crops
• Perennial crops
• Landcover
• Fruit trees
• Agricultural census