Temporal and spatial changes in vegetation cover of Mahaweli-h system: Mahaweli development project (1988 to 2022)
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Date
2024-11-01
Authors
Ariyasingha, U. D. H. P.
Chandrathilake, G. G. T.
Kumara, M. A.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Postgraduate Institute of Science (PGIS), University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
Abstract
The Mahaweli development project is Sri Lanka's largest and most significant multi-purpose development initiative, covering an extensive area of 57,225 × 104 m² within the Mahaweli H zone. This project has profoundly impacted vegetation cover in the Mahaweli H System, prompting a study of the temporal and spatial changes since its initiation in 1988. This research aimed to assess these changes across the entire Mahaweli H System from 1988 to 2022 and included a trend analysis of vegetation health and conservation efforts within five forest reserves and one wildlife boundary. Data from 1988 to 2022 were analysed, with projections extending to 2042. The period was divided into five-year intervals, and satellite images from the Landsat 5 TM and the Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS were processed using ArcGIS software. Indices were classified using the natural breaks (Jenks) method, facilitating land size determination. A linear regression model was applied to analyse trends in five forest reserves (Licolawewa Upper, Lunuoya, Yoda Ela, Licolawewa Lower, and Bongamuwa) and one wildlife boundary from 1988 to 2042. The overall vegetation area exhibited fluctuations, notably decreasing to 9,980 × 104 m² from 1993-1997, followed by a recovery peaking at 20,230 × 104 m² from 2018-2022. The linear regression analysis of NDVI trends in ArcGIS revealed a positive trend in the Licolawewa Upper and Lunuoya Forest Reserves, as well as in the Wildlife boundary, indicating improved vegetation health and effective conservation efforts. Conversely, the Yoda Ela, Licolawewa Lower, and Bongamuwa forest reserves exhibited negative trends, indicating a decline in vegetation health. The study underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and sustainable land management practices to ensure the long-term health and conservation of vegetation in the Mahaweli H System.
Description
Keywords
ArcGIS , Conservation , Landsat , Regression model , Remote sensing , Vegetation
Citation
Proceedings of the Postgraduate Institute of Science Research Congress (RESCON) -2024, University of Peradeniya, P 09