Quantifying Forest Disturbances and Lanscape Level Over Half a Century Using Cold War SPY Satellite and Contemporary Imagery. Case Study Pecineagu Watershed, Romania

Abstract

This study examines disturbances in the Pecineagu watershed forests over the last 50 years. The primary objective of this study is to comprehensively assess the intensity and consequences of canopy disturbances in the Pecineagu watershed forests over the past half-century. Utilizing meta-analysis and advanced remote sensing techniques, including satellite imagery from Corona Spy, Landsat, and Sentinel-2, we identified significant changes in forest cover and structure. The analysis revealed 142 hectares of disturbed forest between 1986 and 1996, with a notable portion undergoing clearcutting and afforestation. Despite these disturbances, our findings show high forest connectivity and low fragmentation, predominantly in the dominant forest layer. However, two areas, i.e. Berevoiu – Valea Coltilor and Manastire – Valea Comisului, experienced substantial fragmentation in different periods, indicating variable impacts across the watershed. These results underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and sustainable forest management to maintain forest connectivity and minimize fragmentation. The study also highlights the need for accurate data recording in forest management plans for effective resource management, offering crucial insights into forest conservation strategies amid environmental changes.