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29 August 2024 Evaluating Changes in Tree Canopy Coverage After Hurricane María: a Comparative Analysis of Urban, Coastal, and Rural Areas of Ponce, Puerto Rico
Priscilla Cintrón-Bartolomei, Alejandro Ríos-Franceschi
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Abstract

Hurricane María, a catastrophic natural event in 2017, left an indelible mark on the Puerto Rican landscape. This study examines the hurricane's ecological repercussions by analyzing tree cover in the municipality of Ponce, southern Puerto Rico. Our primary focus is on the changes in tree cover, encompassing urban, coastal, and rural areas, from before to after the hurricane. Utilizing high-resolution spatial imagery and remote sensing techniques, we map and compare vegetation cover in 2016 (pre-Hurricane María) and 2018 (post-Hurricane María). The study covers three landscapes of Ponce, from the north, center, and south of the municipality, offering a comprehensive understanding of the hurricane's impact on different landscapes. The findings reveal profound alterations in tree cover, with specific attention to the urban, coastal, and rural zones. In the aftermath of Hurricane María, the North/ Rural zone witnessed substantial decreases of 14.73% in tree cover. The Center/Urban zone displayed a mix of trends, highlighting the complex interaction between urbanization and hurricane impacts. Coastal areas in the South/Coast zone exhibited diverse impacts, emphasizing the need for conservation and restoration strategies. Detailed insights into specific neighborhoods underscore the localized social impacts of Hurricane María. Located in the northern region of the municipality, Guaraguao's negative change in tree cover may translate into reduced biodiversity and ecosystem services. Urban neighborhoods, such as San Antón, experienced considerable negative changes, indicating challenges such as increased heat stress and decreased aesthetic value. This research not only enriches our understanding of the ecological shifts induced by Hurricane María, but also informs for future resilience planning and conservation efforts. By emphasizing the interconnected nature of social and environmental impacts, the study serves as a tool for adaptive public policies that integrate ecological resilience with community well-being.

Priscilla Cintrón-Bartolomei and Alejandro Ríos-Franceschi "Evaluating Changes in Tree Canopy Coverage After Hurricane María: a Comparative Analysis of Urban, Coastal, and Rural Areas of Ponce, Puerto Rico," Caribbean Journal of Science 54(2), 259-272, (29 August 2024). https://doi.org/10.18475/cjos.v54i2.a8
Published: 29 August 2024
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