Forest cover changes under selective logging in the kabaung reserved forest, bago mountains, Myanmar

Abstract

This study examined the main factors affecting forest cover changes in Kabaung Reserved Forest, where selective logging has been carried out. Change detection was performed based on analysis of Landsat images taken in January 1989, November 2000, and January 2003. We used a combination of supervised classification and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) image-differencing methods to detect the selective logging area; a chi-square test confirmed the effectiveness of this method. Analysis of the spatial distribution pattern of forest cover changes pointed to selective logging, dam construction, shifting cultivation, and teak plantation operations as the factors influencing forest cover changes in the logging compartments. Illegal logging was a possible process of forest cover change in easily accessible nonlogging compartments. Regarding deforestation, intensive felling before dam construction was the main factor among the above-mentioned four. This study suggests the need for further development of regular assessment and monitoring of forest cover changes in the Kabaung Reserved Forest to examine and protect this natural teak-bearing area against forest reduction. © International Mountain Society 2009.