Local causes of landscape transformation in a mountainous region in central Mexico

Abstract

Landscape results from interaction between physical structure of territory and social construction. Therefore, identify local causes of transformation in a landscape can recognize concordant dynamic between biophysical spatial structure and social process. The aim of this work was to analyze dynamics of landscape change in a temperate forest in central Mexico, through methodological analysis integration of land use change and fragmentation of landscape with environmental history of site; with a socio-ecological approach. It was concluded that the main causes of landscape transformation are related to extraction of timber and non-timber forest resources, afforestation, tourism and some public policy programs. In addition, there are processes of change that are not related directly with the forest, but with increasing urban sprawl on edge of forested area.