Journal of Degraded and Mining Lands Management
Vol. 13 No. 1 (2026)

Sustainable management strategies for degraded subak rice fields in South Denpasar, Bali

Ambarini, Lina Anandari Dwi (Unknown)
Frimawaty, Evi (Unknown)
Herdiansyah, Herdis (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Jan 2026

Abstract

Rapid urbanization has accelerated the degradation of subak rice fields in Bali, manifested through pollution of irrigation channels and reduced agricultural productivity. This study assessed the extent and characteristics of land degradation in South Denpasar and formulated sustainable management strategies for restoring the ecological and cultural integrity of the subak system. The Logical Framework Approach (LFA) was applied to identify key problems, analyze causal relationships, and develop measurable strategies. Data were obtained through questionnaires, interviews, field observations, and document analysis. Results showed that approximately 87 hectares of subak land were lost within five years, driven by weak spatial enforcement, domestic and industrial waste pollution, and limited farmer regeneration. The study formulated five priority strategies: (1) enforcement of land use regulations, (2) economic incentives for conservation farming, (3) integration of Tri Hita Karana values, (4) farmer capacity building through digital technology and (5) improved irrigation maintenance. The research highlights that sustaining the subak system requires a multi dimensional management approach integrating ecological restoration, socio economic empowerment, and cultural revitalization. Adoption of this framework by local authorities can enhance urban land governance, strengthen farmer livelihoods, and preserve Bali’s cultural agricultural heritage amid ongoing urban pressures.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

jdmlm

Publisher

Subject

Agriculture, Biological Sciences & Forestry Biochemistry, Genetics & Molecular Biology

Description

Journal of Degraded and Mining Lands Management is managed by the International Research Centre for the Management of Degraded and Mining Lands (IRC-MEDMIND), research collaboration between Brawijaya University, Mataram University, Massey University, and Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of ...