Multitemporal Analysis of Land Cover Changes in Areas with Contrasted Forest Management and Conservation Policies in Northern Mexico

This study evaluates and contrasts changes in vegetation cover over three decades in two forest areas in the State of Chihuahua in northern Mexico with different management statuses: one with sustainable forest management and the other protected as a Flora and Fauna Protection Area. The hypothesis proposed that both areas would have maintained or increased their vegetation cover since 1995. Satellite images from the periods 1995–2008, 2008–2014, 2014–2022, and 1995–2022 were analyzed. The results showed that Ejido El Largo y Anexos significantly increased forest areas and reduced grasslands due to sustainable management practices, with a notable expansion of pine–oak and pine forests. In contrast, the Tutuaca Flora and Fauna Protection Area experienced a notable loss of oak and oak–pine forests, suggesting ineffectiveness in its conservation policies. However, there was less loss in Douglas Fir forests, indicating some effective protection efforts. The comparison reveals opposing dynamics: while Ejido El Largo y Anexos demonstrates success in sustainable management, the Tutuaca Flora and Fauna Protection Area faces conservation challenges. In conclusion, this study highlights the need for active management approaches to maintain ecosystem cover and functionality.