Mathematical and statistical analysis of geo-images for studying the spatial organization of geosystems

Nature reserves in large cities perform both nature conservation and recreational functions. The growing recreational load, accompanied by the development of recreational infrastructure (lighting poles, gazebos, paths, signs, bike stands, etc.), leads to biodiversity loss, mechanical disturbances of vegetation and soils, and various types of pollution (from garbage to noise and light pollution). It causes the gradual loss of the nature conservation status. The problem could be solved by both institutional measures (regulation of visits, permissible types of recreational activities, etc.), and searching a compromise between nature conservation and recreation, the latter could not often be avoided. A possible way of the problem’s solution, i.e. identification of core nature protection zones, or microreserves, within the nature reserve territory using the multifactor analysis, is suggested. An attempt of allocating such micro-reserves was performed for the Vorobyovy Gory Nature Reserve in Moscow. The methodology includes collecting of a set of various indicators characterizing natural, environmental and planning features, anthropogenic and other changes which determine the current land use of the territory. The obtained characteristics formed an evaluation matrix, which was mathematically processed according to V.S. Tikunov's algorithm (fuzzy classification method). As a result, the entire territory was divided into 7 clusters of landscape groupings, and potential cores of nature protection with maximum natural diversity and minimal anthropogenic disturbance of the territory were selected. The total area of these micro-reserves amounted to 15% of the nature reserve territory (excluding built-up places). They occupy fragments of undulating flat plains, steep slopes, erosion-landslide hollows and alluvial terraces. In addition, at least 16% of other territories may perform the same functions, if minimal measures are taken to reduce the anthropogenic load (minimizing lighting intensity, noise pollution, etc.). Micro-reserves with various landscape characteristics will contribute to preservation of the nature reserve’s conservation functions under the high recreational load.

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