Вопросы лесной науки (Jun 2019)
Cartographic estimation of tree parameter dynamics in Russian northwest
Abstract
The article presents an analysis of spatial variability and temporal dynamics of tree plant condition indicators in the regions of the Russian Northwest over 2008 – 2010 based on the regular network of ground monitoring organised under the ICP Forests international programme. Indicators for trees of dominant species in permanent observation plot (POP) included defoliation, discoloration, condition category, and damage extent. The indicator dynamics was assessed based on procedures of geo-informational mapping and spatial analysis taking into account landscape-focused POP and human-induced impact. The total of 710 POP were analysed in six regions of Russia: Leningrad Region, Pskov Region, Novgorod Region, Kaliningrad Region, Murmansk Region, and the Republic of Karelia. As the research showed, indicators like defoliation degree and share of damaged trees were the most informative (sensitive to primary types of impact). Tree plants with a high level of defoliation were found in softwood forests formed in glaciolacustrine landscapes of low platform plains and in landscapes of high platform plains (Precambrian shields and ridges with glacier expressions) in the Republic of Karelia and Leningrad Region (Karelian Isthmus). The share of damaged trees increased from 23% in 2008 to 39% in 2010. Maximum values of the indicator (above 80%) over the entire observation period were found in four regions: the Republic of Karelia (predominantly on the Karelian Isthmus), Leningrad Region, Murmansk Region, and Kaliningrad Region. Occurrence of the most dangerous biotic causes of tree damages was high in Leningrad Region and the Republic of Karelia. The share of trees with diseases was higher in north taiga forests (30%) as compared to middle taiga forests (24%) and south taiga forests (19%). To the highest extent, the damage was manifested in POP focused on sand landscapes and in Precambrian shields and ridges of high platform plains. In general, the cartographic analysis of monitoring data collected over 2008-2010 showed the Karelian Isthmus (Leningrad Region) where middle taiga forests were steadily characterised by the worst average condition of tree plants within the entire ICP Forests network.
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