ARSF Project WM06/01: Assessment of changes in semi-natural vegetation density and clearance extent in Sorbas, south east Spain. PI: P. Zukowskyj. Site: Sorbas.

Previous research suggests that semi-natural vegetation in this area is increasing in density and biomass. EU policies have promoted destruction of this vegetation, through agricultural subsidies for plantations of tree crops. Little is known about the effects this has on the carbon budget for the region. Research suggests the plantations may never recover the carbon lost.

Previous imagery indicates the semi-natural vegetation is undergoing succession. Uncertainty over the impact of annual variations can be partially addressed through imaging in multiple years. The requested overflight extends the time-series of airborne data, allowing improved estimations of vegetation change.

The aim of the project was to determine the extent of change, particularly succession, in the semi-natural vegetation communities over the last five years. Aerial RS was essential for this given the small and fragmented patchwork nature of vegetation in this area. The acquisition provided effective data to assess the potential impact of EU policy on an active carbon store.

A further reason for supporting acquisition of these data is their educational value. A significant number of UK universities use the existing ARSF data for teaching purposes and extending the time sequence can only enhance this.