Interactions Between Landscape Dynamics, Sloping Lands, and Rural Nonfarm Livelihoods Among Hmong Farmers in the Bac Ha Mountains (Vietnam)

This study employs structural equation modeling (SEM) to investigate the interactions among land use and land cover change (LULCC), sloped terrain, and local livelihoods in the northern uplands of Vietnam. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 50 households from 13 villages in Ban Pho commune (Bac Ha, Lao Cai). The findings indicate that the increasing production and trade of maize alcohol among Hmong farmers contribute to rural nonfarm livelihoods. Most of the corn yield is allocated to alcohol production, underscoring its importance in both lowland and upland areas. While less steep slopes are crucial for sustaining local nonfarming activities, agricultural practices predominantly occur on steep slopes due to their prevalence. The SEM underscores key variables such as total cropland area, steep slope surface, and household size, revealing significant interrelationships across different factors. Agricultural activities drive land acquisition, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a favorable cropland area amidst contemporary challenges such as population growth and deforestation in upland areas.