Spatial and temporal disturbances in the zone of mining of ferruginous quartzites of the Kostomuksha cluster, NW Russia

Abstract

The research presents new methods for analyzing spatial and temporal disturbances, focusing on landscape ecology. The study covers the period from the beginning of the development of the field to the present stage. The Land Use and Land Сover (LULC) change analysis is based on processing of Landsat satellite imagery. The method uses landscape metrics, SDI calculation, and mapping to describe the mechanisms of transformation and self-regulation of the system. Landscape metrics include three groups: areas and edges, shape metrics, and diversity metrics. An increase in landscape fragmentation over time is shown. All LULC classes have been changed. The area of the “mining" class has been increased in 7.7% (from 0 to 55.5 thousand km2). The increase in the area of quarries occurs evenly at the expense of all other land use classes. The data obtained confirm several stages of anthropogenic impact. An approach has been developed for mapping disturbances and assessing the impact on geosystemsIt was revealed that in the cell size range from 1500 to 2500 m, the landscape parameters are the most stable. The calculation of the spatial disturbance index is based on principal component analysis data. Factors were identified that indicate external load and the adaptation and self-regulation of the geosystem. Three degrees of disturbance of the territory are defined: low, medium, and high. In 2006, the maximum level of spatial disturbance was found, with the area of heavily disturbed areas being 68%. The results of this study indicate the importance of taking the necessary measures to reduce environmental risks.