Analysis of Igneada and Its Surrounding Vegetation Dynamics Using Normalized Difference Vegetation Index Data From 1987-2000

Abstract

Igneada area which is studied in this GEF II Project includes different kinds of ecosystems and a wide range of biodiversity These characteristics make it one of the most important areas in Turkey The forests in Igneada and the surrounding areas have unique characteristics In other parts of Turkey and Europe these types of forests have been damaged due to anthropogenic effects The surface area of these forests is approximately 3000 ha Igneada lagoons are located in the northeastern part of Trakya (Thrace) along the Black Sea littoral Alluvial forests with associated aquatic and coastal ecosystems include sand dunes seawater lagoons swamp forest and riparian ecosystems The area was declared a national park in 2007 but cultural pressures have gradually increased In this study Landsat satellite images in the years 1987 and 2000 were normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) classified Based on this classification healthy vegetation structure increased by 6 5% between 1987 and 2000 water surface increased by 1% and other areas (agriculture settlement dune and unvalued) decreased at the rate of 6 7%