ANALYSIS OF VEGETATION DATA FROM THE QUARTERS OF THE "DALNEYE" FORESTRY DISTRICT

Abstract

In the context of climate change and increasing anthropogenic pressure, monitoring the condition of forest ecosystems is becoming particularly important. This study aims to assess the dynamics of the vegetation cover in the "Dalnee" forestry, which is part of the State Forest Nature Reserve "Semey Ormany" (Abai Region, Kazakhstan), over the period from 1991 to 2022. For the analysis, Landsat 5, 7, and 8 satellite images were used, based on which the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was calculated. The obtained data were interpreted using a custom discrete scale adapted to the structure of coniferous stands in the region. The results showed a significant decline in NDVI during 1991–2010, associated with major forest fires (including in 1997), and a gradual recovery of vegetation from 2010 to 2018. However, in 2020–2022, a localized decrease in NDVI was recorded, which may be a result of illegal logging. Overall, the identified trends highlight the effectiveness of using NDVI for remote monitoring of forest degradation and recovery. The study emphasizes the need to strengthen conservation measures and ensure regular satellite monitoring to support sustainable forest resource management in the post-fire and post-anthropogenic period