Utilizing Space-Borne Remote Sensing Data to Track Changes in Forest Cover and Anthropogenic/Bare Land in the ASBC From 2018 – 2025

Anthony Loschiavo
January 30, 2026

Based on a land cover classification algorithm applied to Sentinel-2 MSI imagery in 2018 and 2025 by Loschiavo. 2025, it was determined that in 2018 there was 3805 ha of forest cover in the ASBC and 203 ha of anthropogenic/bare land. In 2025 forest cover increased by 3% to 3922 ha and anthropogenic/bare land extent increased by 26% to 256 ha. The slight 3% increase in dense cover indicates that there are now larger areas of forest/shade-grown coffee land cover acting as viable habitat for the species of the ASBC. However, with the increase of dense cover the 26% increase in anthropogenic/bare land coverage can be associated with increased cultivation and urbanization occurring from new developments in the region. It is critical that whilst preserving dense habitat, the surrounding localities are viable conduits for fauna motion. Managing concerns such as agricultural expansion and urban sprawl while maintaining forest cover is a key area that must be undertaken in future assessments and management actions.