AEROSPACE MONITORING OF THE FOREST ECOSYSTEM DYNAMICS WITHIN THE TERRITORY OF VRACHANSKI BALKAN NATURE PARK

In this paper the application of Remote Sensing and GIS as a means of performing aero – space monitoring of forest ecosystems dynamics is being considered. The purpose of this work is to create a model for monitoring the dynamic of forest ecosystems, based on Remote Sensing and GIS. The results of eco-monitoring can be used to update plans and policies for forest ecosystem management. The territory of Vrachanski Balkan Nature park was chosen as the subject of research as there is a certain anthropogenic pressure there. The results presented are obtained by spatial-time analysis of certain aerospace data indices. To carry out the study optical satellite images were used, on the basics of which three indices were calculated: Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) and Normalized Difference Greenness Index (NDGI). A comparative analysis has been created and results of the degree of correlation between the different indices are presented, as well as indicators from the different test areas and related changes in the individual points in time. The results of the survey aim to assess the dynamics and condition of the forest vegetation on the territory of Vrachanski Balkan Nature park and can be utilised in activities related to monitoring, mapping and forest management.