Land degradation is a complex process resulting from the permanent interaction between physical and human
factors. The effect of changes in land-use and land management on soil erosion and desertification risk has
been studied in Messara Valley (Crete, Greece) over the last six decades (1950–2010). Vegetation cover and
land-use have been analyzed using representative aerial photographs and ortho-photomaps for representative
dates. Soil attributes have been described in a semi-detailed survey in 2010. Soil erosion rates and desertification
risk have been assessed for each period using the PESERA and TERON models and the MEDALUS methodology,
respectively. Based on distinct socio-ecological characteristics of the area three major time intervals have been
identified. Cereals extensively cultivated during the first time interval were progressively replaced by olive plantations
and vineyards in the following periods. Soil erosion due to water runoff was important especially in the
olive transition period, declining in the olive subsidy period. However, tillage erosion became an important degradation
process especially in the olive subsidy period due to mechanization of the agriculture determining soil
losses ranging from 0.5 to 30 cm in sloping areas. Desertification risk due to soil erosion and land characteristics
has significantly increased during the olive subsidy period.