Changes in landscape patterns associated with the persistence of aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado

摘要

Using repeat photography, we conducted qualitative and quantitative analyses of changes in forest cover on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado, during the 20th century (80-100 years). For the quantitative analysis, paired images were classified using remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) technologies. Comparisons were made using three landscape metrics: total relative cover; mean relative patch size; and number of patches per major vegetation type.