Leaf Area Index as an Indicator of Successful Revegetation of Disturbed Mining Sites
Liulin Song, MLWS 2024
This study investigates the changes in Leaf Area Index (LAI) at the Highland Valley Copper (HVC) Mine from 2000 to 2021, focusing on the factors affecting vegetation dynamics. The analysis revealed a significant decline in LAI during 2000-2010, followed by a dramatic increase from 2011 to 2021. Notably, the proportion of shrubs rose by 20.25% while coniferous trees decreased by 23.08%. Land cover changes, alongside environmental factors like temperature, precipitation, soil moisture, and solar radiation, influenced LAI trends. The study also indicated that over the past forty years, the average temperature during the growing season significantly increased, while precipitation decreased, complicating revegetation efforts. Remote sensing technology was highlighted as crucial for monitoring LAI and guiding reclamation policies. The study advocates for enhancing biodiversity in revegetation practices and emphasizes collaboration with Indigenous Peoples and local communities for more effective land management.
