The process of modernization of the Iraqw peasantry of Babati, Hanan'g and Mbulu Districts of Tanzania during 1960-90 is examined. Modernization has led to apparent changes in the way the traditionally agro-pastoralist Iraqw perceive the relationship between themselves and their physical environment. The expansion of commercial cropping of wheat, maize and beans since the 1970s has led to land and soil degradation. Environmental degradation and other man-made ecological problems are related to the contemporary economic mode, namely the pursuit of profit.