Non-Grain Production of Cultivated Land in Hilly and Mountainous Areas at the Village Scale: A Case Study in Le’an Country, China

Non-grain production of cultivated land (NGPCL) is an essential factor that affects food security and sustainable agricultural development. Due to the large population limited area present in China, resources are more extensive valuable hilly mountainous areas, though expansion NGPCL threatens detrimental use resources. To better understand problem this paper initially classifies into four distinct types, namely unplanted (UCL), planted non-grain crops (PNGC), engineering recoverable (ENR), immediately (IMR), based on their planting types attributes. Subsequently, we analyzed spatial patterns differentiation characteristics these Le’an County at village scale through exploratory data analysis studied driving factors using geographical detector model. The findings show rate was 18.53%, with ENR occupying largest area, followed by PNGC UCL, while IMR had smallest area. distribution suggests there correlations all NGPCL, which exhibit clustering, except for IMR, displays heterogeneity. We attribute phenomenon natural, social, economic factors, forces having varying degrees influence. Specifically, slope, altitude, protection intensity play significant roles overall NGPCL. This crucial significance local management department’s efforts prevent control Chinese Government’s ensure security.