Forests and Agriculture Dominate Baselland's Land Use, Survey Reveals.

November 2, 2025

The land use survey for Baselland during 2014/2015 reveals that forests and agricultural land dominate the region, covering over 80% of the area, while settlements account for 18.1%, indicating a focus on preserving natural and agricultural spaces alongside controlled urban development. The minimal unproductive areas demonstrate efficient land utilization, reflecting a commitment to sustainable development and resource preservation.

The most recent land use survey for the canton of Baselland, conducted during the 2014/2015 period, provides a comprehensive overview of how land is allocated across different categories. The total area surveyed amounts to 51,767 hectares. Forests dominate the landscape, covering 21,455 hectares, which accounts for 41.4% of the total area. This is closely followed by agricultural land, which occupies 20,545 hectares or 39.7% of the land. Settlements, including urban and residential areas, make up 9,377 hectares, representing 18.1% of the total. Unproductive areas, which may include bodies of water, rocky terrains, or other non-arable lands, are the least extensive, covering 398 hectares or 0.8% of the total area.

This distribution highlights a significant emphasis on maintaining natural and agricultural spaces within the canton, with forests and agriculture together comprising over 80% of the land use. The relatively small proportion of land dedicated to settlements suggests a controlled urban expansion, balancing development with the preservation of natural and agricultural environments. The minimal unproductive areas indicate efficient land utilization, maximizing the potential of the canton’s terrain. This land use pattern reflects a commitment to sustainable development, ensuring that natural resources and agricultural productivity are preserved while accommodating the needs of the population.

Data source: Arealstatistik: Bodennutzung und -bedeckung nach Hauptbereich, Klasse und Gemeinde (seit 1982)
Additional resources: Arealstatistik Schweiz

🤖 This text was generated with the assistance of AI. All quantitative statements are derived directly from the dataset listed under Data Source.