Impacts of Multi-Land Use Decisions on Temperate Forest Habitat Quality in the Changbai Mountain Region, Northeast China

Abstract

Human-driven land use changes significantly contribute to habitat loss and fragmentation in temperate forests, prompting the implementation of ecological conservation programs. However, these efforts may be undermined by the competing demands of ecological conservation and economic development. This study assessed changes in temperate forest habitat quality and the relative contribution of competing land use decisions (ecological programs, cropland expansion, and urbanization) to these changes in the Changbai Mountain region, Northeast China from 1990 to 2050. Our results revealed a region-wide decline (−20.77%) in habitat quality over the past 30 years, with projected improvements (+14.64%) under the future scenario, albeit with considerable regional variations. Ecological programs contributed to long-term habitat improvements by preserving and expanding forest cover. However, cropland expansion and urbanization through forest conversion were identified as the primary drivers of habitat quality degradation, leading to both direct habitat loss and indirect negative effects on the quality of the remaining habitat. Our findings offer valuable insights into the effectiveness of ecological programs and the trade-offs posed by economic pressures, highlighting the need for integrated land use strategies that balance ecological and socio-economic objectives in temperate forest management.