DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e168786

Authors: Davis Dinkov, Lyubka Pashova

Abstract: High-resolution Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) are critical for accurate coastal flood risk assessment, particularly in low-lying areas vulnerable to sea-level rise, storm surges, and other natural hazards. This study presents a comparative evaluation of five DEMs with varying spatial resolutions and data sources for a test area along the northeastern Bulgarian Black Sea Coast around the Durankulak Lake—an area identified as at risk of coastal flooding. A high-resolution Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) derived DEM was generated using Structure-from-Motion and Multi-View Stereo (SfM-MVS) photogram-metry and compared against three other DEMs: BG DSM (4 m), MGS DEM (10 m), and re-sampled TanDEM-X (10 m). The vertical accuracy of DEMs was assessed using control points (CPs), including GNSS-measured and geodetic reference points, and parametric and non-parametric statistical methods, along with statistical tests to assess the error distribution. Results indicate that the UAV and BG DSM models exhibited normal error distributions with high vertical accuracy (root mean square error: 0.098 m and 0.776 m, respectively), while the MGS and TanDEM-X models display significant deviations from normality and lower precision. The UAV-derived DEM has offered the highest accuracy and reliability, though it requires significant field and processing resources. The findings highlight the importance of selecting DEMs based on the required precision, available resources, and application-specific context, particularly for hydrologic and hydrodynamic modeling and flood risk mapping under the EU Floods Directive. This study provides a robust methodological framework for evaluating DEM quality and suitability in coastal hazard assessments and contributes to improved geospatial data practices in flood-prone regions.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e185535

Authors: Saleh Eddine Zahli

Abstract: Soil erosion and sediment transport represent major environmental challenges in semi-arid Mediterranean watersheds, where high erosion rates do not necessarily translate into high sediment delivery to river systems. This study assesses sediment regulation ecosystem services in the Nfifikh watershed (Morocco) to clarify how landscape connectivity controls sediment export, retention, and internal buffering processes. A spatially explicit connectivity-based modelling approach was implemented using the InVEST Sediment Delivery Ratio (SDR) model, integrating a 30 m digital elevation model, land use and land cover data (2019), soil properties, and rainfall erosivity factors within a GIS environment. The results reveal a marked decoupling between potential soil erosion and effective sediment transfer. Despite high erosion potential in upstream areas, sediment export remains spatially limited due to reduced connectivity, whereas midstream sectors with moderate erosion exhibit higher sediment delivery efficiency. High SDR values are confined to a limited number of well-connected zones, while large portions of the basin function as sediment sinks. Valley-floor deposition locally exceeds 1100 kg yr-1, under-scoring their buffering capacity. Ecosystem service indicators further show spatial differentiation between avoided soil erosion and avoided sediment export, reflecting the role of land-cover configuration in regulating sediment fluxes. Overall, the findings demonstrate that sediment regulation is primarily governed by landscape connectivity and land-cover structure rather than erosion intensity alone, providing transferable insights for ecosystem-based watershed management in semi-arid Mediterranean environments.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e166425

Authors: Fiorella La Matta Romero, Vanessa Arevalo-Seijas, David Valqui-Peña, Moya MacDonald, Jemma Wadham, Raul Loayza-Muro

Abstract: The retreat of tropical glaciers in the Peruvian Andes, particularly in the Cordillera Blanca, has significantly altered hydrogeological and geochemical processes in mountain water-sheds. This study investigates the influence of glacier change-driven acid rock drainage (ARD) upon benthic macroinvertebrate communities in 19 glacier-fed streams of the Santa River watershed over two consecutive dry and wet seasons (2019–2020). The findings reveal that ARD driven by glacier melt and sulphide oxidation has led to increased metal concentrations (e.g., Fe, Mn, Al, Pb) and pH reductions (of 2–3 in some sites), creating a “toxic or treat” scenario for aquatic biodiversity. Statistical analyses, including principal component analysis (PCA), principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), and canonical correspondence analysis (CCA), indicate significant correlations between physical and chemical changes and macroinvertebrate assemblages. Collector-gatherers (e.g., Chironomidae, Baetidae) were dominant in sites impacted by ARD, while sensitive functional feeding groups, such as scrapers and shredders, declined under high metal stress. Seasonal variations also affected taxonomic richness, with greater abundance observed during the dry season. These results highlight the cascading effects of climate-induced glacier loss on freshwater ecosystems and provide critical insights into the ecological consequences of ongoing environmental changes in high-altitude Andean rivers.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e169740

Authors: Hrachya Astsatryan, Rita Abrahamyan, Artur Gevorgyan, Hasmik Panyan, Furtado Kalli

Abstract: Droughts cause danger to human health and socioeconomic development worldwide. The traditional station-based analysis of droughts has limitations. The most relevant is the insufficient spatial resolution of the observations, particularly over mountain topography. This study evaluates the performance of two satellite precipitation products—the Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement (IMERG) and the Climate Prediction Center Morphing Method (CMORPH)—for monitoring meteorological droughts in mountainous environments, using the Armenian Highlands as a case study. We focused on a drought event in June 2021, which was the hottest and driest month in Armenia in nearly nine decades. The performance of gridded global precipitation products was evaluated against in-situ observations for June 2021. Statistical evaluation using the Pearson correlation coefficient, root mean square error, mean absolute error, mean bias, and standard deviation has been analyzed. Results indicate that both products have challenges in accurately estimating the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) under severe drought conditions. However, IMERG’s drought detection aligned more closely with in-situ observations than CMORPH’s, which tended to underestimate drought severity. In addition to precipitation-based indices, Landsat-8 and Sentinel-2 vegetation and moisture indices (NDVI, NDMI, NDWI) were evaluated, yielding complementary data regarding the impact of drought on the environment. We found a correlation between low SPI values and stressed vegetation (low NDVI/NDMI), validating the ecological impact of the meteorological drought. Outcomes discuss the merits and disadvantages of satellite precipitation records over mountainous regions and advise operational drought monitoring and early warning systems within data-limit-ed topographically complex areas worldwide.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e177296

Authors: Dmytro Kasiyanchuk, Yaroslava Atamaniuk, Mykola Deputat, Svitlana Gavdey, Pavlo Horishevskyi

Abstract: The objective of the present study is to undertake a quantitative assessment of the spa-tial impact of tourism on natural complexes in the Carpathian region. This is achieved by employing geostatistical modelling methods. The present study deviates from con-ventional buffer methodologies insofar as it employs an integrated algorithm founded upon Kernel Density Estimation (KDE), thereby amalgamating multivariate analysis with detailed land use classification (LULC). In the analysis, each of the seven factors ̶ hydro-graphic network, relief, transport accessibility, hotels, tourist routes, land use types and nature conservation areas ̶ is standardised on a scale of 1–10 and synthesised into a single model of the vulnerability of natural landscapes to tourist pressure. The spatial integration of the factors demonstrates that areas exhibiting high and very high vul-nerability encompassed a total area of more than 310 km², constituting approximately 34% of the total area under consideration. These areas are predominantly concentrated within mountain valleys and along major transport axes. The findings demonstrate the substantial analytical superiority of KDE in comparison to buffer models, owing to its capacity to accommodate continuous impact gradients and its strong alignment with actual urbanisation patterns. The proposed approach can be applied to spatial planning for sustainable tourism and environmental monitoring in mountain regions.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e163188

Authors: Svetoslav Anev, Sonya Damyanova

Abstract: The impact of latitude and altitude on phenological rhythms was studied from 2017 to 2023 at two European beech forest sites in western Bulgaria, Petrohan and Belasitsa. These sites are part of the European Long-Term Ecological Research network. We used products from the Copernicus program’s High-Resolution Vegetation Plant Productivity to extract the main phenological events: start-of-season date, max-of-season date, end-of-season date, and season length. Our findings indicate that the spring phenology of European beech is closely linked to altitude, while autumn events are more significantly affected by latitude. Spring phenological events were delayed by 2.9 days per 100 m at Petrohan and 2.3 days per 100 m at Belasitsa. This relationship weakens in summer and almost disappears in autumn when latitude becomes a leading factor. The average difference in the end-of-season date between Belasitsa and Petrohan is 10.8 days, which means 5.4 days per degree of latitude. Although the end of the season has been occurring later each year, the relationship is still insignificant. The dynamics of individual phenological events in different years, at various altitudes and latitudes, show that European beech has good potential for acclimating to present climate conditions in the western Bulgarian mountains. Further research is needed on the influence of longitude, considering the uneven transition between Mediterranean and temperate-continental climates in the southeastern part of the species’ range.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e165458

Authors: Nomin Enkhtamir, Gabor Pirisi

Abstract: This study examines the spatial and economic dimensions of 247 small rural towns across Mongolia between 2015 and 2023, focusing on the interplay between traditional mainstay economic base types, livestock herding, sown area, enterprise activity (including mining, business, etc.), and changes in total population and age structure. We track demographic outcomes as changes in total population and the working-age share; component processes (births, deaths, migration) are not decomposed. Nonetheless, the spatial patterns we observe near transport corridors and mining towns are consistent with net in-migration. Drawing on economic base theory and functional rurality, the research uses standardized spatial datasets to classify settlements and track population structure in relation to economic specialization and infrastructure access. The findings reveal that livestock remains the most widespread economic base, particularly in central and western Mongolia, though increasingly vulnerable to environmental shocks. Enterprise activity has expanded significantly, especially in towns with access to rail and road networks, contributing to labor retention and demographic growth. Sown area intensity has remained concentrated in traditional grain-producing regions, with only modest expansion observed in some central and western provinces. Towns dependent on a single economic base, especially livestock or aging mining, experienced working age population decline, while towns with diversified or infrastructure-linked economies showed demographic resilience. These results contribute to the understanding of rural transformation in Mongolia and offer insights for targeted, decentralized development planning. Findings highlight the need for coordinated investment in diversified local economies to support demographic sustainability in small rural towns.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e162641

Authors: Elena Todorova, Miglena Zhiyanski

Abstract: This study suggests an understanding, based on the local perspectives, of the underlying reasons why the municipality of Velingrad, a mountainous region with abundant natural resources and promising tourism sector does not retain its population and harness its endogenous potential to develop sustainably. Q methodology is employed to better comprehend how people collectively perceive certain problems and their solutions. The results lead us to three well-defined perspectives that highlight high-disagreement areas where dialogue and negotiation are most needed, especially around tourism’s role, environmental trade-offs, and benefit-sharing mechanisms. The study revealed deep distrust in the governing system and a general sense of political and ecological alienation. The future of mountain villages is not perceived as a collective responsibility, but rather as a challenge they are expected to manage on their own. As a result of these insights, the study suggests changing the course of local development and reframing the management model into a more open community-based platform that integrates local voices and energy by involving them not only in framing the policies but also in the implementation and monitoring process. This study uses Q methodology to explore how local stakeholders perceive the factors influencing the socio-ecological framework that guides local management decisions.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e164548

Authors: Youssef Lassiane, Farid El Wahidi, Hassan Ait Naceur, Hoda Benazun

Abstract: The Skoura oasis, located in the Ouarzazate region of southern Morocco, represents a fragile agro-ecosystem increasingly affected by land degradation processes. This study aims to analyze the spatio-temporal dynamics of desertification in the oasis from 1984 to 2024, in light of climate variability and anthropogenic pressures. An integrated approach combining remote sensing data and environmental indicators is adopted to characterize changes in vegetation and soil conditions. High-resolution satellite imagery from Pléiades 2023 and time series data from the Landsat (5, 7, 8) and Sentinel-2 missions are processed using object-based image analysis and segmentation techniques. Three key indicators are employed: the Modified Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (MSAVI), surface albedo, and the Sand Fraction Index (SFI). These indicators are integrated to construct a Desertification Monitoring Index (DMI) within the Google Earth Engine platform. Results reveal that in 1984, 24.3% of the oasis area was already classified as highly desertified, particularly in the eastern, southern, and central zones. A slight improvement was ob-served by 1996, with the desertified surface decreasing to 8.6 %. However, a renewed intensification occurred between 1996 and 2010, especially in areas dominated by date palms and olive groves. From 2010 to 2024, desertification progressed further, marked by significant vegetation loss. The findings highlight the persistence and aggravation of land degradation over four decades. The study demonstrates the value of integrated remote sensing approaches for monitoring desertification and supports the need for adaptive strategies to ensure the sustainable management of oasis ecosystems.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e168308

Authors: Fiorella La Matta Romero, Todd R. Lewis, Chad Staddon

Abstract: Understanding the factors that shape household water and energy use is essential for designing targeted conservation interventions that promote both sustainability and well-being. While studies in this area often rely on traditional “frequentist” statistical methods, which can struggle to capture the complex interdependencies among demographic, behavioural, psychological, and material influences. This paper introduces Bayesian network (BN) analysis as a novel and adaptable method with useful applications in water and energy studies and a wide variety of other social sciences. The paper offers a primer on how to conduct BN analysis, including underlying logic and range of choice of software platforms, before presenting a brief worked example based on the authors’ current research into household water and energy consumption in a UK city. The paper shows how Bayesian networks can generate valuable insights from relatively small and complex datasets, capture non-linear relationships, and support scenario-based reasoning, making them well-suited for exploratory studies, “what if?” scenario-testing and policy effectiveness review. The findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of domestic water and energy consumption and offer a practical framework that can inform the design of targeted, evidence-based interventions to encourage sustainable water and energy use in households. We argue that there is much to be gained by proliferation of this analytical approach throughout the social sciences.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e155799

Authors: Astisiasari Astisiasari, Wisyanto Wisyanto, Dian Melati, Sukristiyanti Sukristiyanti, Raditya Umbara, Yukni Arifianti, Trinugroho Trinugroho, Lian Andikasari, Taufik Ramdhani

Abstract: Landslide exposure is an adept approach to measuring the consequences of a landslide hazard on elements at risk. Landslides in the Bogor area, Province of West Java, Indonesia, have increased in number and consequences since 2015. The Bogor area also has a fairly large population that may aggravate the impact. Accordingly, this study aims to measure the landslide exposures over two substantial elements (i.e., population and land use). The actual resources for these exposed elements are available from the open-access geodata and the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform. For the land use classification, this study employs two robust machine-learning (ML) algorithms on a GEE-based Object-based Image Analysis (OBIA), i.e., Random Forest (RF) and Gradient Tree Boosting (GTB). Moreover, the population data were retrieved from WorldPop estimates. Landslide exposures were then analyzed through an overlay between these two elements with a landslide hazard map sourced from the former study. The results show that in 2020, the Bogor area had an exposed population of 885,353 people, with Bogor Selatan District having the highest exposed population (135,475 people). Moreover, in 2021, the Bogor area had a total exposed land use reaching 347.9 km2, with built-up area having the most extensive, reaching 45.9% of the total exposed area. Here, Sukajaya District had the largest exposed land use (39.1 km2). This study is expected to reach multifaceted entities that contribute to strengthening landslide risk reduction. Through this spatial awareness of the highly exposed areas to landslides, mitigation measures can be taken accordingly.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e157082

Authors: Oleksiy Gnatiuk, Anna Klymenko

Abstract: This study explores the drivers (explanatory factors) and spatial patterns of suburban development in Vinnytsia, a second-tier Ukrainian city, within the broader context of post-socialist urban transformation. The objective of the paper is to identify the drivers of suburban development of Vinnytsia as a second-tier Ukrainian city at the level of individual settlements and to uncover the general spatial patterns of its suburban area. Drawing on spatial features of suburbanisation including population change, housing modernisation, real estate market activity, and construction permits, the research reveals a distinct centre–periphery structure of the suburban area, asymmetrically distributed along the southwest-northeast axis. The suburban area comprises three quasi-concentric zones, each exhibiting varying levels and forms of suburban development. The first zone, directly adjacent to the city, is dominated by classical western-type suburbanisation, involving the influx of affluent residents and the emergence of low-rise and multi-storey housing. The second zone, stretching 15–20 km from the city centre, is characterised by housing modernisation rather than new construction, with commercial activity concentrated near major highways. The third zone, up to 30 km away, shows only partial transformation, mainly through the renovation of existing homes, which may be equally referred to both suburban and peri-urban development. Logistic regression confirms proximity to the central city as the most influential factor across all indicators, while landscape features and access to highways also contribute significantly. The research identifies asymmetries rooted in both natural landscape preferences and the spatial configuration of the city itself. Notably, administrative reforms have failed to align governance boundaries with functional suburban integration. The study concludes that suburbanisation in Vinnytsia reflects hybrid dynamics of post-socialist development, merging unregulated urban expansion with spontaneous and policy-driven modernisation. The findings offer insights for spatial planning in second-tier cities, advocating for more integrated approaches to suburban and peri-urban governance.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e159980

Authors: Aditya Kumar, Pankaj Kumar, Rumi Rongpi, Prabhat Ranjan, Aditi Kumari, Anju Singh

Abstract: Forests are vital to terrestrial ecosystems and they offer essential services for climate regulation and human welfare. However, the increasing trend in forest fires poses a significant threat to these ecosystems. This study aims to map and assess forest fire vulnerability zones within Almora district, Uttarakhand, India, using geospatial technologies and the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) technique. Twelve environmental indicators related to forest fire vulnerability, including elevation, slope, land use/land cover (LULC), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Vegetation Health Index (VHI), temperature, precipitation, humidity, wind speed, Land Surface Temperature (LST), and distance from settlements and roads, were considered. The study revealed that a strip running from northern to southern Almora, including Someshwar, Dwarahat, and Ranikhet, is highly vulnerable to forest fires. This region is characterized by moderate to high elevation, a moderate to steep slope, and well-connected roads and settlements, particularly in Dwarahat and Ranikhet tehsils. The central and southern parts of Almora also exhibit good road connectivity, dense human settlements, and receive moderate to low precipitation, all of which contribute to a higher fire risk. In contrast, the eastern and western parts of Almora, comprising northern Sult, northern Bhikiyasain, and Banoli tehsils, are significantly less vulnerable to forest fires. These areas have moderate slopes, low to moderate elevation, higher precipitation in the eastern parts, and lower precipitation in the western parts, making them comparatively less prone to fire incidents. Validation through the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve confirmed the accuracy of the model, with an 82% area under the curve.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e159722

Authors: Igor Leščešen, Pavla Pekárová, Zbyněk Bajtek

Abstract: Accurate forecasting of river discharge is critical for the sustainable management of water resources, influencing applications such as irrigation planning, flood and drought mitigation, and infrastructure development. This study investigates the application of the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) model to forecast minimum monthly discharges of the Danube River, addressing challenges posed by nonlinear and time-dependent hydrological processes. The study utilizes an extensive dataset comprising daily discharge records from ten stations across seven countries, spanning over a century. Monthly minimum discharges were computed and analyzed to identify long-term trends and seasonal patterns. The SARIMA model was selected for its proven ability to capture seasonal variations and optimize forecasting accuracy in da-ta-limited environments. Model performance was evaluated using statistical measures such as mean absolute error and root mean square error with results indicating robust predictive capabilities across the studied stations. The findings reveal significant vari-ability in discharge trends, with notable decreasing trends in minimum flows at several upstream and midstream stations, highlighting potential impacts of climate change and anthropogenic influences. In contrast, downstream stations exhibited relatively stable discharge patterns. These insights underscore the need for adaptive water manage-ment strategies to mitigate the risks associated with decreasing low flows. The study demonstrates the utility of SARIMA models in hydrological forecasting and provides a foundation for future research exploring hybrid modeling approaches incorporating climate variables. The results offer valuable inputs for policymakers and stakeholders in managing water resources under evolving climatic conditions.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e152149

Authors: Aigul Sergeyeva, Imanaly Akbar, Yergali Karakulov

Abstract: The development of large cities has a significant influence on surrounding settlements. Urban areas are characterized by diversity and variability, depending on their size, function, combination of elements, and the spatial distribution of industrial and transport infrastructure. Over the past decade, due to population resettlement, urban settlements have undergone substantial transformations. However, spontaneous processes often accompany urban development, and land use efficiency remains suboptimal. The relevance of this study is determined by the necessity of analyzing urban territories as an integral part of the city. This paper presents an analysis of the structure and dynamics of suburban development in the vicinity of Aktobe. The expansion of these areas plays a crucial role in shaping the city’s economic landscape and determining its growth trajectories. The study employs statistical, comparative-analytical, and isochrone methods. From a geodemographic perspective, the suburban zone of Aktobe is of particular interest due to its formation characteristics and specific spatial dimensions. The most active and attractive development occurs within a 15–30 km radius from the city center, corresponding to 40-minute and 90-minute isochrones. In recent years, Aktobe has been experiencing rapid urban growth, necessitating the resolution of key planning issues such as functional zoning, urban regulation, development of major transport infrastructure, preservation of recreational areas, and the establishment of green spaces. A SWOT analysis of the settlements surrounding Aktobe was conducted as part of the study. One of the identified strengths is the favorable transport and logistics situation. Additionally, the study evaluates other strengths and weaknesses, as well as potential opportunities and existing constraints for suburban development.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e145478

Authors: Ion Andronache

Abstract: This study investigates the application and performance of several fractal analysis methods for interpreting complex spatial patterns in 2D and 3D grayscale images. Using synthetic datasets with known properties, we systematically evaluate the accuracy of multiple fractal metrics. Among these, Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) dimension and Higuchi dimension proved the most effective in capturing both isotropic and anisotropic structural complexity. The methods were then applied to case studies that address land use change, deforestation, reveal fragmentation patterns, and spatial heterogeneity. Notably, fractal metrics offer consistent and scalable tools for monitoring landscape transformations over time, providing valuable insights for environmental assessment and biodiversity conservation.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e144897

Authors: Altyn Zhanguzhina, Zhanar Ozgeldinova, Zhandos Mukayev, Meruert Ulykpanova, Perizat Zhanuzakova

Abstract: The article presents the results of an analysis of natural forest regeneration after a wildfire in the Amankaragay Forest Massif, Kostanay Region, Republic of Kazakhstan, during the post-fire period. The forest landscapes of the Kostanay Region are subject to pyrogenic impacts of both natural and anthropogenic origin, leading to changes in the phytocenosis of ecosystems. The study integrates field research findings with remote sensing data and methods (dNBR, NBR, NDVI) to assess post-fire conditions and forest regeneration in the Kostanay Region through the comparison of three sample plots. Changes in summer dNBR values indicate the severity of the fire, while annual and seasonal variations in NDVI values, particularly during the summer, reflect the intensity and level of post-fire forest recovery. The analysis of natural forest regeneration after the wildfire in the Amankaragay Forest Massif was conducted using field research methods, ArcGIS 10.8 software, and spectral index analysis of multi-temporal high- and medium-resolution satellite imagery. Based on the research objectives and the specific characteristics of the study area, necessary calculations and analyses were conducted for each sample plot. As a result, the natural regeneration of forest landscapes was assessed, and relevant findings were obtained. Fire intensity and type determine the rate of forest recovery. dNBR and NDVI indices confirm the effectiveness of remote sensing for monitoring post-fire forest recovery. Remote sensing data and field assessments enable not only the evaluation of current forest conditions but also predictions of future development. The changes in the structure of dominant tree species in the Amankaragay massif, detected through satellite monitoring after exposure to the pyrogenic factor, were verified using field research methods.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e140222

Authors: Elena Todorova, Miglena Zhiyanski

Abstract: This study develops a framework based on three indices—Soil Moisture Index (SMI), Leaf Area Index (LAI), and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and analyzes their spatial variation across the Parangalitsa Reserve from 2015 to 2024. While spectral indices like NDVI and LAI are well-established tools for monitoring Earth’s processes, this research goes beyond their general application by tailoring these indices to the specific context of a high-value protected area. The framework is designed to identify areas with significant deviations in index values over time, which may signal ecological changes influenced by both natural and anthropogenic factors. By relating these deviations with land cover, slope inclination, and aspect, this study introduces a more holistic perspective to uncover meaningful patterns. The results reveal an overlap of deviations in the indices, particularly within coniferous forest areas, highlighting potential regions for targeted in-situ observations. This approach can improve forest management and monitoring by providing a framework for identifying ecologically sensitive areas. The research emphasizes the utility of proven spectral indices when integrated into a targeted, site-specific framework that contributes to forest management and ecological monitoring by providing a replicable methodology for pre-assessing sensitive ecosystems. By enabling a deeper understanding of localized dynamics, the study bridges the gap between well-documented methodologies and their practical application in safeguarding biodiversity and ecosystem services in protected areas.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e134780

Authors: Gulzhan Avgusthanova, Nazgul Zhensikbayeva, Saltanat Aitkozhina, Nazerke Amangeldy

Abstract: The article is dedicated to the matter of implementing a local history studies component among the students majoring in Geography at higher education institutions, in conjunction with the Geoinformation mapping courses. When studying courses of the major, the students consider the matter of local history studies that allows them not only to get informed about the territory of the native land as a whole but also enables them to create its general geoinformational model. The practical stage of the research engaged the 3rd and 4th year students majoring in Geography and Geography and History at Sarsen Amanzholov East Kazakhstan University. During the experiment, the students created a layout of unique places and tourist zones of their native land. As a result, using region information mapping, the students prepared digital layouts of the East Kazakhstan region, which had not been previously mentioned in the Geoinformational mapping course.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e142535

Authors: Hristina Prodanova, Vanya Stoycheva

Abstract: Ecosystem services research in Bulgaria has been actively studying different aspects of this concept and its implementation. Although it is widely recognizable, the concept has still not been sufficiently implemented in Bulgaria’s decision-making process. Following the European and global initiatives for implementing biodiversity and ecosystem services (BES) into the decision-making process, we have identified the stakeholders’ perceptions regarding the possible initiatives for improving the uptake and the lack of sufficient education program coverage within secondary and higher education. In this short communication, we suggest practical priorities for the future development of BES activities enabling the uptake in Bulgarian education and policy.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e136806

Authors: Samy A. Anwar, Latifa Zhouri, Bilel Zerouali, Yong Jie Wong

Abstract: This study aims to reduce uncertainty in future projections of potential evapotranspiration (PET) across Egypt by utilizing the regional climate model (RegCM4) under two distinct Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP): RCP4.5 and RCP8.5. The RegCM4 was downscaled using the medium-resolution Earth System Model from the Max Planck Institute, achieving a horizontal resolution of 20 km over Egypt. Initially, the spatial distribution of simulated PET was assessed, followed by the orrection of historical PET calculations using long-term gridded data from the Climate Research Unit (CRU) through a linear regression model (LRM) at twelve locations representing diverse climate zones in Egypt. The LRM was then applied to adjust future PET projections covering the period from 2006 to 2100. Significant spatial anomalies in PET were observed, articularly during the periods 2061–2080 and 2081–2100, with more pronounced anomalies under the RCP8.5 scenario compared to RCP4.5. Across all locations, the RegCM4 effectively captured the monthly variability of PET in relation to CRU data. Furthermore, the application of the LRM substantially improved the accuracy of simulated PET, demonstrating the ffectiveness of this approach in enhancing model performance and reducing uncertainty in future projections.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e135422

Authors: Peter Nojarov

Abstract: This study examines the total evaporation and precipitation-evaporation difference in Bulgaria. Data from ERA5-Land reanalysis for the period 1979–2023 were processed using statistical methods. The results show that the main factors for evaporation in Bulgaria are air temperature and precipitation. Evaporation has a positive trend due to the rise in air temperature. This trend is significant only in mountainous regions, which are well-supplied with water. Evaporation is somewhat limited in the other parts of the country because of the water deficits in the warm part of the year. Precipitation is a possible source of water for the earth’s surface, but there has been only an insignificant increase in it in recent decades. Precipitation-evaporation difference remains relatively unchanged during the studied period, which is a favorable trend, as there is no increase in the water deficit in Bulgaria on an annual basis. In addition, most of the country has positive values in terms of the average annual values of precipitation-vaporation difference. However, there is a need to introduce monitoring of actual evaporation, because this study has shown that different calculation methods give different results, which is a significant problem in determining how much precipitation remains in a given area. The exact values of this indicator are extremely important for various sectors of the economy such as agriculture, water supply and sewage, transport, energy, etc.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e128961

Authors: Hanene Guergour, Mohammed Cheraitia, Assoule Dechaicha, Djamel Alkama

Abstract: Climate-aware urban environments pose a significant imperative to obtain thermally comfortable outdoor areas. The present study addresses the optimization of urban block morphology in Guelma City, Algeria, to enhance thermal performance in a semi-arid climate. Using in-situ measurements and simulation generated by the ENVI-met simple forcing scheme, the impact of urban morphology on the variation of outdoor comfort factors, including air temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed arameters, is identified. The conducted investigation illustrates building configuration, orientation, and street canyon geometry as key indices affecting thermal comfort. Results pointed out urban green cover’s role in mitigating heat island effects. In conclusion, the study underscored the significance of an interconnected analysis of urban patterns and heir correlated influence on urban microclimate for achieving thermally comfortable outdoor environments.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e126650

Authors: Tsvetan Parov

Abstract: Discovered only about 200 years ago, Antarctica is the poorest and most isolated ecosystem on Earth. Its thinner atmosphere, due to the centrifugal forces of Earth’s rotation, the ozone hole, and stronger solar radiation, creates a natural laboratory that provides information about the state and trajectory of Earth’s climate condition. This study aimed to determine the depth of heat penetration from the surface of the glacier into the crevasses in the ablation zone and establish the zone of constant temperatures in the glacier. It explored the relationship between the air temperature at the glacier surface and the temperature distribution in the crevasses, including the temperature gradient at different levels and the direction of the airflow. We used autonomous data loggers for measuring and recording temperature and relative humidity. The measured depth reached 18 m in the central part of the glacier and 9 m in the periphery. An ultrasonic anemometer was installed in the deepest crevasse in to the center of the glacier to determine the size and direction of air flows. Meteorological parameters such as air temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, and solar radiation were measured on-site using autonomous sensors and recording devices mounted on installations on the glacier surface and at depth using alpine techniques. The results show a temperature gradient through 3-meter layers, a relatively clear boundary of the constant temperature zone, and a significant infiltration of cold air through the crevices driven by turbulent wind processes. Additionally, a weak negative correlation was found between solar activity and temperatures in the crevasses. It appears that as solar activity increases, the temperature decreases. There are also weak but consistently positive correlations with air movement both upward and downward. The temperature becomes constant with the increase of the depth until a zone of constant temperatures is determined and the temperature variance becomes insignificant. This zone varies in different crevаsses, meaning it is influenced by the specific characteristics of each crevasse location. At shallow depths, temperature is influenced by external temperature, but with the depth increasing this influence decreases. On windy days, the zone of constant temperature expands. During higher solar activity, air circulation accelerates—both upward and downward. The relationship between solar activity and climatic processes in glacier drainage systems adds new insights to solar-terrestrial physics.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e128013

Authors: Melike Durak

Abstract: Kuruçay Stream basin, located in the Edremit district in northwest Turkey, is a small, narrow and long basin with an area of 17.3 km2, extending in the N–S direction, located on the southern slopes of Mount Ida. The study was carried out to determine the soil erosion susceptibility and distribution of Kuruçay Stream basin, as well as to estimate the annual average amount of soil loss through the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model using Geographical Information Systems (GIS). To apply the equation to the basin, data layers for rainfall erosivity (R), soil erodibility (K), slope length (L) and slope steepness (S), landcover management (C), and support practice (P) factors were generated. The layers were then overlaid, calculations were made and erosion susceptibility classes were generated. Thus, the spatial distribution of erosion susceptibility classes and the annual estimated amount of soil loss were determined. Based on the results, the Kuruçay Stream basin was found to have five distinct erosion susceptibility levels: low, moderate, high, severe, and extremely severe. Accordingly, 76% of the basin has low, 11.3% moderate, 6% high, 2.9% severe and finally 3.7% very severe erosion susceptibility. The Kuruçay Stream basin shows similar characteristics with the neighbouring river basins in terms of erosion sensitivity.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e126690

Authors: Tabaro Kabanda

Abstract: This study examines the effects of extreme temperature events, defined explicitly as the 98th percentile temperature for heat, in Tanzania from 1981 to 2023. The study utilises percentile analysis, z-score calculations, and trend mapping to highlight the prevalence of extreme temperatures. The z-score analysis examines the occurrence of extreme temperatures and their distribution in terms of frequency and space. It identified Tanzania’s mid-eastern and north-western regions as areas with a high concentration of extreme temperatures over the previous 43 years. The study analyses the length of extreme occurrences and reveals changing patterns. In 2020, the events were shorter, while in 2021 and 2022, they became longer-lasting, and there was a notable concentration of extended anomalies near the northern coastline. In 2023, the highest temperatures ever recorded were observed, with more than half of the regions seeing prolonged periods of extreme temperatures lasting for a week and significant deviations from the norm staying for four weeks or more. This was particularly notable in the southern regions of Lindi and Mtwara. The harmonic trend analysis of temperature shows an upward temperature trend noticeably in regions such as Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Kagera, Morogoro, Simiyu, and Shinyanga and is somewhat inconspicuous in most areas.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e124098

Authors: Ibrahim Olatunji Raufu

Abstract: In an era of rapid urbanization, understanding the complex relationship between vegeta-tion dynamics and land surface temperature (LST) is crucial for addressing the challeng-es posed by urban heat island (UHI) and promoting sustainable urban development. Our study aimed to explore these dynamics in a rapidly urbanizing environment by analyzing the relationships between remote sensing-based vegetation indices and LST through quantitative analysis. A cloud-free Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS level 2 satellite imagery of Ibadan region city for 2022 was obtained from the United State Geological Survey (USGS) and LST was estimated using the radiative transfer approach. Utilizing different combina-tions of spectral bands, seven vegetation indices including Normalized Difference Veg-etation Index (NDVI), Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI), Atmospherically Resistant Vegetation Index (ARVI), Green Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (GNDVI), Ratio Vegetation Index (RVI), Optimized Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (OSAVI), and Green Chlorophyll Index (GCI) were analyzed. Combined with the spatial distribution of LST in Ibadan, regression analysis were performed to explore the relationship between vege-tation indices and LST. Results indicate that among the seven vegetation indices, ARVI has the strongest correlation with LST in the study area (R2 = 0.65). Additionally, urban cores experience lower vegetation density and higher LST values, which can be attribut-ed to land use intensity, anthropogenic heat release, and impervious surface cover while the peripheral areas exhibit higher vegetation indices and lower LST values. The findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of urban environmental dynamics and provide valuable insights for sustainable urban planning, ecosystem management, and climate adaptation strategies in rapidly urbanizing areas.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e115814

Authors: Valbon Bytyqi, Tropikë Agaj

Abstract: The study aims to analyze the availability of renewable freshwater resources and their spatiotemporal distribution in the Eastern Region of Kosovo (ERK). As a crucible resource for agricultural, industrial, and commercial activities, water scarcity will lead to water shortages. Kosovo is a landlocked country, and ERK is the most important region for industrial activities (coal, mines) and agricultural use (plains). Located in continental climate conditions, surrounded by middle to high-altitude mountains, the region does not have a favorable spatio-temporal distribution of freshwaters. The determination of the water resources is based on the amount of surface runoff, which being divided per capita, gives indications of the water resources of a region (catchment). For our aims, main river discharge and population statistics are used to analyze the spatiotemporal distribution and availability of renewable freshwater in ERK. Falkenmark Freshwater Indicator with 1.483 m³/capita/year shows that ERK lies under water scarcity, and existing water reservoirs offer low security for water withdrawals, and further reservoirs would prevent water scarcity in the region.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e115315

Authors: Rossen Koroutchev

Abstract: The current study delves into the contemporary challenges within the Zakarpattia region of Western Ukraine. It accomplishes this by examining the circumstances of the local populace and the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) hailing from Eastern Ukraine who arrived following the onset of the armed conflict in February 2022. Official statistics were employed to scrutinize the social and economic characteristics of the IDPs, as well as their influence on local development in Zakarpattia. These findings were then compared to the on-site research conducted by the author in the region during August 2023. The primary conclusions drawn from this research affirm the amelioration of the local economic status and job prospects in Zakarpattia as well as the adaptation of the IDPs to the new life in the region.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e113695

Authors: Mohamed Brahimi, Moussadek Benabbas, Djamila Djaghrouri

Abstract: Urbanization has radically transformed natural landscapes, giving rise to complex urban environments worldwide. This transformation poses unique challenges in terms of climatic conditions. We emphasize the crucial importance of understanding urban microclimates shaped by geographical, architectural and human factors, requiring meticulous management for sustainable urban planning. These multifaceted factors interact to produce spatial variations in solar exposure, temperature and wind conditions, leading to distinct microclimatic pockets within cities. This underlines the imperative need for sustainable urban planning and design that takes account of their impact. Our field survey is located in Djelfa, Algeria, featuring a semi-arid to arid climate with continental influences. This article presents a methodology involving a detailed morphological analysis of the urban fabric, focusing on its structure, vegetation cover and spatial characteristics. It describes the use of ENVI-met, a powerful microclimate simulation tool offering a complete three-dimensional modeling system that integrates various urban elements, including buildings, streets and green spaces. Our spatial considerations guarantee model accuracy, with a rigorous geometry validation process maintaining model fidelity. The tool produces invaluable output data, including air temperature, relative humidity and thermal comfort indices. This paper emphasizes on the application of the model in Djelfa, Algeria, highlighting its potential in evaluating thermal condition in urban environments. The results of our study highlight significant temperature and humidity disparities between urbanized and green areas in the survey area, with temperature differences of up to 6°C during the day. Urbanized areas consistently have higher air temperatures and lower humidity levels, particularly during the day. Conversely, green spaces, including gardens and tree-lined areas, exhibit lower temperatures and higher humidity levels, offering valuable respite from heat stress. The use of the Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) index allows us to assess thermal comfort, revealing variations in heat stress levels across the urban landscape. This research highlights the crucial importance of integrating green infrastructure into urban planning to improve thermal comfort and livability in cities. Furthermore, our study reveals the value of advanced tools like ENVI-met in understanding urban microclimates and provides valuable information for sustainable urban development and climate adaptation strategies.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e113364

Authors: Meryem Koncak Doğruer, Mustafa Kahraman, Mesut Doğan, Aigul Yeginbayeva

Abstract: Detection of the exchange and distribution of agricultural lands allows many projects and plans to be made and interpreted correctly, such as food safety, planning, and environmental risk analysis. From this point of study in the spatial changes and distribution of agricultural land in time across Turkey were examined. CORINE Land Cover (CLC) data was used to identify agricultural land and examine changes over time. As a result of the study, it was observed that agricultural lands increased slightly from 1990 to 2018, but this increase has not always been in the form of preserving existing agricultural lands and adding existing agricultural lands. While some areas have lost their agricultural land characteristics, some areas have become agricultural land. New agricultural areas are usually realized by the transformation of forests and semi-natural areas while the agricultural areas that disappear are provided from heterogeneous agricultural areas. The Central Anatolia region stands out in the distribution of agricultural areas by region. The region with the highest concentration of agricultural land in terms of both proportion and area is the Central Anatolia region. Also, the Central Anatolia region is the region with the most intensive Non-irrigated agriculture. The area where irrigated agriculture is proportionally most made is the southeast Anatolia region. According to province-based, the provinces with more than 40% of the provincial surface area are Kırıkkale, Kırşehir, Nevşehir, Aksaray in the Central Anatolia region, Gaziantep and Şanlıurfa in the Southeastern Anatolia region, Edirne and Tekirdağ in the Marmara region. The provinces of Artvin, Tunceli, Bingöl, and Hakkari are the provinces where the percentage of agricultural land is below 10%.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e115062

Authors: Mariela Nekova, Galin Petrov, Rumen Yankov

Abstract: Settlement formations are a specific and relative new category of territorial units in Bulgaria. They were introduced by law in 1995. According to the Act of Administrative and Territorial Structure of the Republic of Bulgaria, settlement formations are built-up areas outside the construction boundaries of settlements. Unlike settlements, settlement formations have no permanent population. They serve specific functions—residential, industrial, transport, etc. They are differentiated into settlement formations of national importance and those of local importance. So far, no special scientific studies have been conducted on the settlement formations in the country. This study focuses on the settlement formations of local importance with recreational functions. Settlement formations with potential for tourist supply are identified. An analysis of tourist resources and accommodation facilities as factors for their formation and functional development is conducted. On this basis, a classification of settlement formations of local importance is proposed, in which they are differentiated into six types. Examples of settlement formations with different recreational profiles are provided. The study presents the current state of settlement formations of local importance in Bulgaria, because they are a dynamic category of settlement structures. The results of the study are illustrated by relevant maps.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e110454

Authors: Patrick Sunday Asa, Ambrose Audu Zemba

Abstract: Urban climatologist particularly those interested in Urban Heat Island (UHI), require some form of explanations to UHI variations at both spatial and temporal scales in cities. Temperature cooling and warming rate can be use as a form of explanations for spatial and temporal variations for UHI intensity characteristics of an area. This study therefore, assessed variations in temperature warming and cooling rates in Jalingo. The study used temperature data collected at six locations representing six different thermal climate zones in the study area. Temperature data were collected for the period of 90 days thirty days in each of rainy season, dry season, and hamattan period. Simple statistical analysis was performed to determine the warming and cooling rates. The results indicate that temperature warm and cool differently in the study area. The results also revealed that general warming in the area within the study period begins at 8:00 h local time (GMT +1) with warming rate ranging from 0.94°C to 1.75°C across locations with a mean of 1.30°C. Cooling starts at 15:00 h ranging from -0.88°C to -1.84°C with an average of -1.48°C. It is recommended that environmental planners particularly the urban planners and Architectures should take into considerations the warming and cooling rates in their building design and also embrace appropriate landscaping to improve thermal comfort.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e109172

Authors: Bilyana Borisova, Maria Glushkova, Stoyan Nedkov, Miglena Zhiyanski, Vanya Stoycheva

Abstract: Habitat maintenance as an ecosystem service (ES) is essential for the protection of natural capital, however, it is among the most challenging services for definition and evaluation. The present study is focused on assessing and mapping habitat maintenance ecosystem service in Rila and Pirin Mountains in Bulgaria for strategic planning purposes by better understanding the link between the potential of providing this ecosystem service and biodiversity in five protected areas (PAs). An integrated approach for the assessment of the condition of ecosystems in PAs and their potential to provide ecosystem services was applied and further developed in the present study. The results showed that the conservation regime allowed the territories to preserve a high degree of naturalness in a very good ecological condition – 96477 ha (73%) of the total case-study area, and 33078 ha (77%) of the target PAs, respectively. The potential of ecosystems to provide habitat maintenance ES is high to very high for 84% of the total studied area (81258.9 ha) and for 96.4% (31906 ha) of the area of the target PAs. A current assessment and mapping show the role of protected areas as spatial natural capital assets that purposefully and actively support their prioritized habitat maintenance functions as spatial guarantors for the sustenance of rich packages of material, regulating, and cultural functions in significant geographic areas. The results demonstrate the importance of protected site management in mountain areas in ensuring sustainable cooperation and consumption of ecosystem services in peripheral mountain communities of the European Union highly dependent on available natural capital.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e108502

Authors: Leonid Todorov, Elena Todorova

Abstract: The present research investigates the possibilities of the available online resources and GIS analytic tools to facilitate integrating the spatial context in urban and regional planning by testing a GIS-based location analysis that uses widely available data for identifying an appropriate site for National Children’s hospital in Bulgaria. The elaborated methodology is easy to use, employs accessible online resources, and could be applied in different scales. The aim is to produce a comprehensible instrument that could be adopted by public authorities and used for informed political decision-making. A series of geospatial analyses are used to evaluate the potential location and its alternatives based on transport accessibility, population density in the service area, and public transport connectivity. The analyses are based on the online resources of Google Maps that are used to evaluate the transport accessibility to all the possible locations using different perspectives. The pedestrian access to public transport is also calculated to assess the different modes of transport available. To assess the locations according to the transport accessibility of the population, tools from ArcGIS Pro Network analyst are used. Accessibility is considered from the patient's perspective. The results are analyzed to make a supposition of the alternatives and to come up with a conclusion about whether the already chosen location is a sensible choice from a transport accessibility perspective. The outcomes of the research could help policymakers understand some of the spatial complexities associated with the demand and the accessibility dimensions of healthcare access. The article emphasizes the significance of integrating the spatial context in urban and regional planning and the possibilities of the new technologies to facilitate that task. This methodology for location analysis could be also used for other public services and urban-related matters.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e102519

Authors: Mariela Nekova

Abstract: The significance of review articles has been proved. This type of articles is especially necessary now, when immediate actions to save an important economic sector must be taken. The present research aims to determine the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on one of the most important elements of tourism – the accommodation facilities, through bibliometric analysis. In order to achieve this goal, the VOSviewer software was used, and data from one of the world’s largest databases of scientific production – the Web of Science, was collected. The bibliographic coupling approach was used in the bibliometric analysis. The bibliometric analysis was followed by content analysis of the most cited studies from each cluster. The effects of COVID-19 on the accommodation facilities are summarized and classified by groups.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e89878

Authors: Davis Dinkov

Abstract: In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have increased rapidly and successfully established themselves as a tool for the rapid collection of high-resolution images as baseline data in land cover studies and topographic mapping. In photogrammetry using the SfM-MVS method of processing captured images, indirect georeferencing of the digital data through ground control points (GCPs) is usually applied. But selecting, marking, and coordinating GCPs in hardto-reach terrains is time-consuming and sometimes dangerous or impossible. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of high-resolution topographic data (HRTD) products of photogrammetric processing of PPK-directly georeferenced images by SfM-MVS workflow. Direct and indirect methods of georeferencing digital products are compared. The planimetric and vertical root mean square error (RMSE) in the position of the validation points were calculated by the differences between measured coordinates in dense point clouds, orthophoto mosaics, and terrain surfaces (DSM), and precisely measured coordinates of the validation points by GNSSRTK receivers. The analysis is based on a statistical evaluation of experimental data obtained from a TAROT X6-based hexacopter equipped with two different image sensor configurations: 1) Sony RX0 action camera and 2) Sony A6000 mirrorless camera, and 3) DJI Phantom 4 Pro quadcopter with integrated additional L1-GNSS module for direct georeferencing by PPKmethod. HRTD generation was performed with three block control configurations for each UAV: 1) Indirect georeferencing via GCP only, 2) PPK direct georeferencing without GCP, and 3) PPK georeferencing using one GCP. Our research showed that when using L1-GNSS onboard receivers for PPK-georeferencing without any GCPs, the point cloud's planimetric accuracy (RMSExy) was from 0.125 to 0.231 cm, depending on the UAV/camera configuration. However, two flight missions produced significant vertical offsets, most likely due to ionospheric disturbances affecting the resolution of phase cycle ambiguities in the single-frequency receivers used. When adding one control point in the PPK georeferencing method, the planimetric and vertical accuracy of the data is comparable to the indirect GCP referencing method. Furthermore, our results show that camera properties (i.e., focal length, resolution, sensor quality) affect the quality and accuracy of digital products. The HRTDs were also evaluated according to the ASPRS (American Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing Society) Standards for Accuracy of Digital Geospatial Data. Analyzing the accuracy of the HRTDs obtained with the experimental UAV/camera configurations for the test area, the present study shows that the PPK-SfM-MVS workflow can provide quality data with a centimeters accuracy of the photogrammetric products.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e93499

Authors: Vanya Stoycheva, Davide Geneletti

Abstract: There is a high growing demand for regulating ecosystem services such as air quality regulation, regulation of air temperature and humidity, and flood regulation, in urban ecosystems which is important for urban planning. A comprehensive review of the current studies of the urban ecosystem, regulating ecosystem services, and their connection with urban planning actions is needed. The current paper presents such a review conducted in six stages to evaluate the state-of-the-art of regulating ecosystem services and their relationship with urban planning. It includes 58 papers selected after a precise keywords search and developed by publication screening, defining indicators, developing an assessment template, and meta-analysis of the results. The analyses are focused on spatial data used in the studies, the methods applied for ecosystem services assessment, and the relationships between regulating ecosystem services, urban planning, and green infrastructure. The most studied regulating ecosystem services within reviewed publications are regulation of chemical composition of atmosphere and oceans, regulation of temperature and humidity, including ventilation and transpiration, and hydrological cycle and water flow regulation (including flood control, and coastal protection). Although urban planning-related papers are only 1/3 of the pool of papers, appropriate results have been obtained for assessing the urban planning-regulating ecosystem services relation. The review also identified some significant knowledge gaps that can be used as a starting point for future studies.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e101301

Authors: Petar Stefanov, Hristina Prodanova, Dilyana Stefanova, Vanya Stoycheva, Gergana Petkova

Abstract: Karst is a widely spread natural phenomenon which provides essential benefits to human society, such as drinking water. The water cycle in the karst geosystems is the main factor for their formation and at the same time one of the main drivers for ecosystem services (ES) provision. The monitoring of the water cycle can provide valuable information regarding its functioning and ensure data for ES assessment. This paper aims to present an overview of the monitoring of the water cycle in the karst geosystems and the opportunities to integrate the monitoring data into the water regulation ES assessment. The monitoring of the water cycle is based on the methodological framework ProKARSTerra. It is applied in model karst geosystems, which are representative of the main karst types in Bulgaria. One of them is the Brestnitsa karst geosystem, which is the case study of this work. The monitoring ensures data for analyses of the water cycle which can be used in the assessment of water-related ecosystem services. The results from the analyses of the data requirements and availability show that some services such as water flow regulation and regulation of chemical condition of freshwaters can be easily provided through data for quantification, while for others further studies are needed. The results of the long-term integrated monitoring in Brestnitsa karst geosystem provide the foundation for important conclusions and models for the karst genesis and function under global changes and active anthropogenic pressure. Their integration into the assessment framework and mapping of ecosystem services is an essential step towards the development of models for sustainable use of natural resources in the karst areas.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e99268

Authors: Gergana Petkova, Hristina Prodanova, Vanya Stoycheva

Abstract: The mapping of ecosystems is a significant element in the European Biodiversity Strategy and the results of its implementation should support the maintenance and restoration of ecosystems and their services. The quality of the spatial data is of crucial importance for the achievement of these goals. A methodological framework for Bulgaria in the form of nine separate methodologies has been developed in recent years. In this paper, we analyze the ecosystem typology for Bulgaria and the GIS database to assess the possibilities to develop a common database for the needs of integrated water management. The data analyses were carried out in two dimensions: 1) the typology and attributive data were analyzed by cross-tabular approach; and 2) the spatial data were analyzed by topology rules. The results of the study reveal three main problems of the typology: 1) for some types it is developed to the fourth level while for others it is to the third level; 2) in some of the ecosystem types, especially in the freshwater ecosystems, different categories are mixed within a single hierarchical level; 3: there are duplicated numerical designations between grassland and forest ecosystems. This necessitates a revision of the typology and the development of a correct uniform classification to be used for the needs of integrated assessment. The topology analyses of the merged data from the eight ecosystem GIS layers show extremely large numbers of gaps and overlaps. The main reason is the use of different sources for the mapping of different ecosystem types. The main conclusion is that it is practically impossible to generate topologically correct integrated GIS layers from the eight ecosystem type layers. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a new approach for mapping all ecosystem types into a uniform database.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e97168

Authors: Tsvetan Kotsev, Velimira Stoyanova

Abstract: The present study aims to determine the spatial distribution of soils with lead (Pb) content above the quality thresholds in a section of the Ogosta River valley (NW Bulgaria). The study area was contaminated with mine waste from the extraction and flotation of iron, lead-silver, and gold-bearing ores in the second half of the XX century. Predictive modeling was performed with the software Maximum Entropy Species Distribution Modeling (MaxEnt), Version 3.4.4, which uses machine learning algorithms and applies the maximum entropy method. The choice of predictors of contaminated soil distribution is consistent with the main factor for Pb dispersal within the valley floor - flooding from the Ogosta River. The following six parameters explained the environmental settings related to the accumulation of contaminated floodplain sediment: vertical distance to the river channel, lateral distance to the Ogosta River, terrain slope, land cover (CORINE Land Cover, 2019), morphographic units of topography, and elevation. The results represent the average values of 10 replicates of the model. We evaluated the individual models by the value of the area under the relative operating characteristic curve (AUC) and the geographic logic of the obtained results. The AUC score for the test samples was 0.666 for the soil group 1 with Pb ≤120 mg/kg, 0.782 for group 2 with Pb (120-500] mg/kg, and 0.934 for group 3 with Pb>500 mg/kg. The most significant predictors for the models are the vertical and lateral distance to the river and the slope of the terrain. Lead concentrations tend to decrease with the distance from the main river and by increasing the elevation above the river channel due to lower inundation frequency and deposition rate of polluted river sediments. The soils with a Pb concentration below the permissible threshold of 120 mg/kg cover more than 58.42% of the valley floor of the studied section, and lands with Pb content above the intervention value of 500 mg/kg occupy nearly 10.82% of the investigated territory. The selected predictors describe the distribution of highly contaminated soils well and define the range of soils with lower Pb content worse. Combining clean and contaminated soil samples into one group is considered the main reason for the poor performance of MaxEnt for soils with Pb ≤120 mg/kg. However, the results prove the model's ability to predict the spatial distribution of not only biological species but also the dispersal of hazardous substances in soil.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e94102

Authors: Leonid Todorov, Kristian Kirilov

Abstract: A specific feature of the period of transition in Bulgaria in the field of urban planning is that a large part of the newly developed urbanized territories was transformed from their previous purpose (mainly agricultural lands) via detailed urban plans that were very fragmented. When changing the purpose of the land in this way, the procedure is significantly easier than with an Urban master plan, but this leads to many negatives. Thus, the territory becomes significantly fragmented when it comes to the purpose of the properties. This leads to environmental consequences that are overlooked by the officials in charge. One such example is the basis of our present study - the attempt to destroy the Boyana Marsh so that the land can be used for building a residential complex. In this study we examine the application and integration of various types of geospatial technologies for the purpose of land use change detection and monitoring of endangered territories that should be protected. We examine the processes of collecting primary historical spatial data and their combination with two UAV field surveys carried out specifically for this purpose. Based on the collected data, specific analyzes of the affected territories were made. The data and all results are presented in a web application that aims to promote the case study and help garner wider public support for the initiative “Save the Boyana Marsh”.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e89215

Authors: Aleksandra Ravnachka, Velimira Stoyanova

Abstract: Light industry is one of the most important and priority industries in Bulgarian economy. It includes the production of textiles, clothing, and leather. Its development affects the state of the country’s overall economy. Despite the numerous studies that use GIS, in Bulgaria there have been no publications on the application of statistical analysis with the use of ArcGIS software. This study aims to apply Geographic cluster analysis using ArcGIS software to analyze the light industry in Bulgaria as of 2010, 2015, and 2020. The grouping of areas by selected indicators in the present study was performed with the Grouping Analysis tool. NO_SPATIAL_CONSTRAINT was selected for the Spatial Constraints parameter and FIND_SEED_LOCATIONS – for the Initialization Method. In this case, we used the K-Means algorithm to partition features into groups. That algorithm is one of the most popular and widely used clustering algorithms in GIS applications. The areas were grouped into 10 clusters. The selection of indicators on which the clustering procedure was based, is following the generally accepted indicators for assessing the state and importance of the food industry in the structure of the economy. The following indicators were used: output for 2010, 2015, and 2020; number of employees and export earnings as of 2010, 2015, and 2020, for each administrative-territorial unit. The spatial distribution of the population, in combination with the historical and the modern economic development of the settlements, forms the regional differences in the development of the light industry in the country. The cluster analysis of certain indicators for the assessment of the light industry at the NUTS 3 level as of 2010, 2015, and 2020, shows some changes in the spatial development trends of the industry. The cluster analysis shows that there are slight spatial differences in production at the NUTS 3 level, with large consumer centers and markets being the most important.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e85567

Authors: Eugenia Sarafova

Abstract: Bulgaria, located in the Balkans, is subject to a number of natural disasters including floods, earthquakes, landslides, forest fires, strong winds, droughts, heavy snowfall and extreme temperatures. In addition to natural disasters, the country is at risk for man-made events like industrial and nuclear accidents, transport accidents, and infectious diseases. Disaster planning and prevention is a complex process that requires multiple data sources. At the same time, spatial data are often not available on-line, so the country's GIS specialists may find existing spatial data to be a great challenge. This research analyses the application of the health sector data provided by the Copernicus Climate Change Service to support the development, implementation and evaluation of disaster risk management plans in Bulgaria. The climate data visualizations provided by the service enable scientists and other stakeholders to view climate change data in a format that is simple to use, visually understandable, and usable for decision makers in government, business, and non-governmental organizations. Many of these visualizations are interdisciplinary and may be critical for gathering and applying information needed to develop disaster risk reduction plans.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e86288

Authors: Petar Nikolov, Desislava Hristova, Vanya Stoycheva

Abstract: The System of Environmental-Economic Accounting – Ecosystem Accounting (SEEA-EA) is a spatially-based, integrated statistical framework for organizing biophysical information about ecosystems, measuring ecosystem services (ES). Water flow regulation ES and biophysical modeling are among the main topics in the individual ES part of the SEEA-EA framework and flood regulation ES is one of the important services. Characterizing and assessing flood regulation is a challenging task as both assessment and accounts of this ES need various data which are usually not available through direct or indirect measurements, therefore modeling approaches of water regulation are much needed. Despite growing attention and studies using hydrologic models to assess and/or map flood regulation ES, the accounting of this service is still not well developed. In this paper, we present an approach for accounting flood regulation at a local scale using ArcSWAT modeling. It is based on the results of flood regulation ES assessment, where modeling results are used to quantify the ES indicators and delineate the service providing areas (SPA) and service demand areas (SDA). The actual flow of flood regulation is calculated as a ratio between ES demand and ES potential and it represents the area of SPA which corresponds to the demand for flood regulation represented by SDA. The results show that predominant flood regulations ES supply is provided by the forest ecosystem as well as the actual flow. The accounting of flood regulation is strongly determined by ecosystem extent mapping. The CORINE Land Cover (CLC) provides the most appropriate and available data for mapping ecosystem extent at smaller scales. However, at a larger scale, it is too coarse and the combination of Mapping and Assessment of Ecosystems and their Services (MAES) national ecosystem mapping gives better results.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e78975

Authors: Lidiya Semerdzhieva, Bilyana Borisova

Abstract: Natural habitats and their biodiversity are usually associated with protected areas, incompatible with direct anthropogenic influence. Is there a biodiversity in urban environment, what is the role of peri-urban areas to the provision of species richness and is their potential being properly utilized? These are current issues that deserve the attention of decision-makers because the human's need of natural environment in cities is expressed more intensely than in any previous period in history. Green and blue infrastructure elements, being part of the larger system of urban ecosystems, provide an essential and proven benefits to the city dwellers, like health improvement, opportunities for nature-based daily outdoor recreation, strengthening sense of place etc. The main objective of this research is to assess this part of the landscape elements in urban and peri-urban environment, which are most supportive to the maintenance of habitats and their biodiversity. Selected Functional urban area with center city of Burgas is choosen for a case study. The urban ecosystems are assessed in GIS environment with unified indicator (based on City Biodiversity Index approach) according to 5 criteria: hemeroby index, share of protected areas, fragmentation index, presence of water and species richness. The assessment is performed on two spatial levels: within Functional urban area by Urban Atlas spatial units and within urban core – by grid cells (local climate zones). The final higher scores identify areas that provide the greatest extent the maintenance of habitats and their biodiversity. The results could support the urban planning and help to optimize the link between the natural elements within the Functional urban areas, providing ecological, economic and social benefits to the regions through the enhancement of the urban ecosystem’s functions and their services.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e76457

Authors: Desislava Hristova, Vanya Stoycheva

Abstract: The main purpose of the paper is to explore the relationship between the CORINE Land Cover (CLC) classification and the MAES typology in order to develop a basis for mapping of ecosystems at national level in Bulgaria, which could ensure a spatial framework for mapping and assessment of the ecosystem services provided by the natural heritage. Identifying the necessary data for our purposes, we found that, in spatial terms, CLC data is the only appropriate data source. The subtypes of ecosystems at Level 3 of the classification of ecosystems in Bulgaria (based on the European MAES classification) are identified as mapping units. Firstly, we decided to analyze the links between the CLC and the MAES BG classes through five categories of correspondence: 1) full correspondence – one CLC class corresponds to one MAES BG subtype; 2) multi-directional links – one or more CLC classes correspond to one MAES BG subtype; 3) discrepancies that necessitate further analyses; 4) CLC classes that are not found in Bulgaria; 5) MAES BG subtypes that have no correspondence to a CLC class. Secondly, we prepared a comparison table to determine the correspondence between the CLC classes and ecosystem subtypes, which we integrated into the GIS environment. Thirdly, we developed an algorithm for modifications of the spatial distribution of ecosystem subtypes. The algorithm was applied particularly to grasslands, where at Level 3 of CLC there are two classes of "grassland”, whereas at Level 3 of the classification of ecosystems in Bulgaria, the subtypes are five. This algorithm was applied to the 2018 CLC spatial data so as to develop a GIS database providing the basis for subsequent analyzes related to ecosystems. The database was used to delineate and map the ecosystems at national level in Bulgaria. Furthermore, a map of the potential of the natural heritage to provide ecosystem services was produced.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e72500

Authors: Mladen Silvestriev, Bilyana Borisova, Radenka Mitova

Abstract: Nature-based tourism and recreation are attracting attention today as the most favourable form of direct connection between people and nature, and as a very successful tool to motivate people to protect their natural heritage. This study aims to develop and test a methodology to assess the potential of an acknowledged natural heritage site in Bulgaria - Malyovitsa Range and Urdini Cirque in ‘Rila’ National Park to provide cultural ecosystem services. A holistic approach is applied, using landscapes as the main territorial unit, and source of information. For the purpose of practicing representative types of mountain tourism: ‘mountain hiking’, ‘nature education’ tourism, ‘ski touring’ and ‘mountaineering’ a total of 15 ecosystem services were assessed based on 25 biophysical and social indicators. ‘Primary forest landscapes on moraine materials’ and ‘Primary landscapes with mugo pine on igneous rocks’ receive the highest score. Based on the results obtained, an assessment of the mainstream activity - access to mountain hiking provided by the landscapes was carried out and two touristic routes with very high potential to deliver this service were identified. The results of the study are directed towards the responsible parties in support of the natural heritage conservation in Rila National Park through sustainable management the potential to provide cultural (recreational) ecosystem services. The research was conducted within the scientific programme of the project “Conceptualization, Flexible Methodology, and a Pilot Geospatial Platform for Access of the Bulgarian Natural Heritage to the European Digital Single Market of Knowledge and Information Services” within the project BG05M2OP001-1.001-0001 Establishment and Development of “Heritage BG” Centre of Excellence (Operational Program “Science and Education for Intelligent Growth”, priority Axis 1 “Research and technological development”).

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e78692

Authors: Hristina Prodanova

Abstract: The importance of the landscapes for the development of recreation and ecotourism is significant but very little studied. Usually, scientists use spatial units to map and assess the ecosystem services CORINE land cover or similar classifications. Traditional multi-level landscape classifications, very well-known and developed in the XXth century in Bulgaria, Russia, and other Eastern and Central European countries, could give valuable information for various indicators for ecosystem services assessment. From another hand, these classical landscape ecological maps are very little- known for the international scientific audience. We decided to conduct an experimental mapping and assessment of ecosystem services based on multi-level landscape classification. For this, we have chosen a case study area with hilly karst relief, which is part of the inner Predbalkan Region, located in North-Central Bulgaria. The site represents a scientific interest in terms of its transitional position between the Stara Planina Mountain and the Danube Plain and the presence of various anthropogenic changes. The study aimed to develop and test an original methodology for mapping and assessment of the capacity of the contemporary landscapes in the Strazhata syncline upland and Melovete hills to provide cultural ecosystem services – recreation and ecotourism. The results showed that 70% of the territory has medium or higher capacity, dominated mainly by karst areas with natural vegetation in protected sites.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e73687

Authors: Stoyan Nedkov, Radenka Mitova, Mariyana Nikolova, Bilyana Borisova, Desislava Hristova, Lidiya Semerdzhieva, Miglena Zhiyanski, Hristina Prodanova

Abstract: Natural heritage (NH) is an important element of the natural capital of each country, and as such, represents key assets that deliver various benefits to the citizens. The rich and diverse NH of Bulgaria is a prerequisite for the development of various activities such as recreation and tourism, but these activities have also negative impact on some of the NH’s elements. The concept of ecosystem services (ES) has the potential for bridging the gap between the conservation and exploitation needs. In this paper, we propose an approach to prioritizing the ES provided by the natural heritage of Bulgaria for the needs of recreation and tourism. The approach is designed for the mapping of the NH but it can also support the overall process of mapping and assessment of ES. It is based on application of ES prioritization matrix (ESPM) and a five-step algorithm designed to differentiate ES into priority levels according to their significance to recreation and tourism. Through the application of the proposed approach we were able to sort out the ES into three groups (high, medium and low priority) according to their importance to recreation and tourism. The first group contains obligatory ES for each mapping and assessment activity from national to local level. The second group contains optional ES recommended for studies at regional level, while the services can be selected according to the specifics of the study. The low priority ES are recommended for local level studies in cases where the assessment requires high details and accuracy. The mapping of high priority ES at national level shows that the products of the approach can be easily adapted for various studies for assessment of NH and sustainable tourism practices using the conventional mapping methods.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e78680

Authors: Stoyan Nedkov, Bilyana Borisova, Mariyana Nikolova, Miglena Zhiyanski, Stelian Dimitrov, Radenka Mitova, Boian Koulov, Desislava Hristova, Hristina Prodanova, Lidiya Semerdzhieva, Yonko Dodev, Ivo Ihtimanski, Velimira Stoyanova

Abstract: Natural heritage (NH) includes natural features that can be described as outstanding universal value at a national level. It refers to the importance of ecosystems, biodiversity, and geodiversity for their existence value, and the ecosystems can be considered as the spatial units for its mapping and assessment. The ecosystem services (ES) concept provides an appropriate basis in the form of assessment and mapping methods that enable linking the state of ecosystems with human well-being. Thus, it can be used as a platform to find solutions to the problems related to the conflicts between conservation and the use of the NH. In this paper, we aim to present the process of developing a methodological framework for mapping and assessment of ecosystem services provided by the natural heritage in Bulgaria for recreation and tourism. The conceptual framework of the ecosystem-based assessment of NH in Bulgaria is based on the assumption that the generation of NH for the needs of tourism can be presented as the linkages between the natural systems and tourism in the form of ES potential, flow, and demand. The results demonstrate that the NH can be presented as a spatial phenomenon conceptualized by the flows of benefits from ecosystems to people which contribute to human well-being. The mapping and assessment procedures are fully developed for application at a national level, while for the regional and local level, few pilot studies mark some basic foundations for further development.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e69814

Authors: Eugenia Sarafova

Abstract: Over the last decades, the pressure that people and their activities put on the environment has increased. Green areas in many cities are diminishing in size due to urbanization, which inevitably leads to a decrease in quality of life. This study uses remote sensing (RS) data for Sofia, Bulgaria, for a period of nearly four decades, analyzing the dynamics of NDVI of the urban development units (UDUs). Statistics for NDVI per were calculated for each UDU for eleven dates in the following years: 1987, 1990, 1992, 1993, 1996, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2011, 2015, and 2020. An estimate was made of the amount of green vegetation per capita, similar to other coefficients used for population analysis. NDVI profiles for major urban parks showed differences for the studied period. Sentinel-2 data for 2020 was used for visualization of the current situation, in combination with detailed population data for all UDUs. The obtained data will help the decision-making process for the development of UDUs, while the methodology can be applied in any other city worldwide.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.e64223

Authors: Stanley D Brunn

Abstract: Issues related to morality have been discussed in the geography literature off and on for the past fifty years. Since morality deals with correctness—right vs. wrong, good vs. bad, or correct vs. incorrect—it is not difficult to understand how these value labels also exist in geography contexts. The geography literature often deals with morality questions in a light or superficial way which leaves geographers and others wondering if there are more value questions we might address in studying human actions and behavior. Three major foci are addressed in this discussion. The first is to explore moral questions geographers might address when looking at cultural behavior, economic development, social policies, allocation of resources, environmental understanding and interpretation of places and landscapes. The second focus is on mapping moralities, including examples of maps that display visible and invisible geographies about moral places and spaces. The third discusses how this moral thread is worthy of further study in many fields of human and human/environmental geography. A greater understanding these threads will strengthen our understanding and appreciation of “why things are the way they are” but also “why we make decisions that we do” at local and global scales.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2020.43.17

Authors: Stoyan Nedkov, Hristina Prodanova, Kliment Naydenov

Abstract: The article presents a comprehensive historical review of the development of “Journal of the Bulgarian Geographical Society” since its establishment, and points out the perspectives that lie ahead. We highlighted three periods of development of the journal: First (1933–1943), Second (1953–1993), and Third (2018–2020) based on key moments within the life-cycle of the Society caused by various socio-political situations in Bulgaria across time. We conducted the review following several key points: (1) periodization; (2) analysis of the publications based on the publishing language, types of the articles, and the major research topics; (3) expansion of the editorial board; and (4) design of the journal including its format, cover and paper layout. We pointed out a few challenges in the present state of the publication process in Bulgaria within the geographic community in particular, and gave valuable recommendations on how to deal with them in the light of the global tendencies in the academic publishing process. For the future development of the journal, we have marked major goals and changes that will lead to improving the quality of the geographic publications in the country. They are as follows: building a journal management concept, determination of the focus and scope, types and characteristics of the publications, and improvement of the graphic design. In conclusion, we highlighted the strengths and the weaknesses of the past development of the journal, and underlined the new changes, which will give the journal an international recognition.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2020.43.5

Authors: Milen Chanev, Lachezar Filchev, Dimka Ivanova

Abstract: In recent years, a number of studies have proven that the conventional agricultural system is not sustainable, toxic to the environment, human health, and its potential to feed humanity is limited to the next 50 years. With this in mind, as well as the increasing demand for healthy and safe foods, and the increase in the proportion of people who care about how the food they consume was produced, how much it does not harm the environment and health, farmers are starting to reorient their production into organic. Over the past 40 years, remote sensing methods and technologies have increasingly been used in agriculture. They have proved extremely useful for optimizing the working processes in the sector, as well as solving many of the problems in it. With this report, we aim to draw the scientific community's attention to the possibilities provided by remote sensing methods and technologies to solve a range of problems related to organic cultivation of cereals.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2020.43.6

Authors: Lachezar Filchev

Abstract: In the article is made an overview of the application of different satellite remote sensing methods and technologies in detection of the abiotic stress in coniferous landscapes. The review paper is discussing in short the application of different remote sensing technologies such as: satellite multispectral and infrared (thermal), imaging spectrometry and fluorescence imaging. The studied period spans from the onset of the satellite remote sensing in the 1960s until present day. In conclusion, are drawn requirements for the perspective technologies in satellite remote sensing which should address the fast and reliable detection of the manifestation of abiotic stress in coniferous landscapes.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2020.43.10

Authors: Alexander Yanakiev

Abstract: Rapid development of remote sensing technologies, including the introduction of new sensors and platforms opened up a whole new field of their application such as monitoring of vulnerable habitats without direct contact, bearing potential harm of the ecosystems within them. The paper explores such opportunities and looks at the conditions of riverine forests along Kamchia river in 2019, using Sentinel-2a, b imagery.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2020.43.1

Authors: Eugenia Sarafova, Spasimir Pilev

Abstract: Caricature maps have long been used for political propaganda, forging ideas and views. This study examines the successful examples of political propaganda from different historical periods by combining the caricature genre with cartography. Caricature maps from Bulgaria and the world are discussed, paying special attention to one of the most famous Bulgarian cartoonists – Rayko Alexiev. In his works can be found many examples of spatial representation of geopolitical events and processes from the 30s and 40s of XX century in Bulgaria, the Balkans, other world regions, and even the whole globe. Examples of 21st century political propaganda through caricature maps of Brexit are also discussed.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2020.42.17

Authors: Hristina Prodanova, Mariya Petrova

Abstract: The paper is devoted to Assoc. Prof. PhD Nikola Todorov’s life and professional contributions (1955- 2018) – a prominent Bulgarian geographer, unreservedly dedicated to the science and field researches, who left а rich creative heritage in the field of Physical Geography and Landscape Science. He was the leading author in the development of the second landscape classification system of Bulgaria and in the creation of а landscape map of Bulgaria on a 1:500 000 scale, which is one of his main contributions. An important contribution in his research activity is the developed classification system of anthropogenic changes and landscape disturbances in Bulgaria, which is applicable to the whole country and encompassing the enormous variety of natural-territorial complexes and their changes. He was a scientific mentor for 26 master students and 4 PhD students. Assoc. Prof. Nikola Todorov was a Lecturer who inspired generations of students and many young researchers with his erudition and oratory skills.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2020.42.24

Authors: Boris Kolev

Abstract: Prof. Peter Nikolov Popov, DSc, is among the innovators in the post war Bulgarian geography. He is one of the geographers working in several geographical areas such as the territorial location of productive forces, regional development, economic regionalization of Bulgaria, the application of mathematical and statistical methods in economic geography, systems theory, environmental protection. His publications include a number of other innovations in the form of approaches, methods and models. Prof. Peter Popov, thanks to his high scientific and linguistic training and erudition, presents with dignity the Bulgarian geography at numerous international scientific forums in which he has participated. He was also a respected lecturer wherever he taught. He has held a number of scientific and organizational positions as deputy director and director of the Geographical Institute of BAS and others.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2020.42.11

Authors: Georgi Zhelev, Alexander Gikov, Eugenia Roumenina

Abstract: This paper presents the biography of the scientist Professor DSc Hernani Borisov Spiridonov. July 2020 marks the 85th anniversary of his birth. His scientific achievements are related to geomorphology, geotectonics and the development remote sensing methods, He is one of the founders of the scientific major Remote Sensing of the Earth from Space in Bulgaria.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2020.42.9

Authors: Emilia Tcherkezova

Abstract: Prof. PhD Dinyo Dimitrov Kanev was one of the most distinguished Bulgarian scientists and university lecturers in geomorphology of Bulgaria and the Balkan Peninsula. The paper presents prof. Kanev’s main scientific works. On the basis of their analysis, they have been grouped into books, maps and atlases, as well as publications related to various thematic topics, e.g. investigations of denudation surfaces, the impact of the base level of erosion on the relief development, studies of the geomorphological evolution of various areas in Bulgaria, morphostructures and morphostructural development of Bulgaria’s relief, the neotectonic movements and their geomorphological response, studies of the volcanic relief in Bulgaria, as well as analysis of the seismic activity and the impact of the relief on the seismic effects, etc. Other works, such as ones related to the problems of the geomorphological investigations in Bulgaria, the geomorphological specifics of the Main Watershed of the Balkan Peninsula, the relation between relief and recreational resources, etc., have also been presented in the paper. Additionaly, the contributions of Prof. PhD Dinyo Kanev to the establishment of section “Geomorphology and Cartography” (now “Climatology, Hydrology and Geomorphology”) in the Faculty of Geology and Geography at the Sofioter University “St. Kl. Ohridski”, Sofia and to the development of geomorphology and cartography as scientific fields in Bulgaria are highlighted.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2020.42.1

Authors: Mariyana Nikolova

Abstract: The article traces the development of geographic research in Bulgarian Academy of Sciences since the creation of the Bulgarian Literary Society until today. The purpose of this study is to show that from the time of historical and political vicissitudes in Bulgaria after the Liberation, the Bulgarian geographic science has always been at the height of the public needs and its achievements was highly valued by world geographical community and the Bulgarian state. The development of geographic science after the establishment of the Institute of Geography at Bulgarian Academy of Sciences was traced in three conditional periods of development, which shows the strong influence of the socio-political changes in the country on the priorities and objectives of the geographical research.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2019.41.4

Authors: Alexander Gikov

Abstract: Maps of contemporary landscapes for 1966, 1980, 1997 and 2016 in key area "Bogdaia" have been made by processing and visual interpretation of historical aerial photographs and recent satellite imagery. The identified changes in the study area show that there is a clear trend of increasing the area of forest landscapes and decreasing the area of grass landscapes which are of secondary origin. For the same period, the transitional forest-shrub landscapes show fluctuations without a clear trend. The restoration of natural forest landscapes is explained by the changed land use and the almost complete lack of grazing in recent years. The process of natural forest landscapes restoration is more active in the coniferous landscape belt and on slopes with northern exposure while in the lower deciduous belt and on slopes with southern exposure component it is slower.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2019.40.2

Authors: Alexander Gikov, Petar Dimitrov

Abstract: At the end of the summer of 2017, the weather in Bulgaria was very dry and hot and this contributed for the occurrence of a series of wild fires. The largest and most prolonged was the wild fire that raged in Kresna gorge. The fire broke out on August 24 and lasted for nearly a week. The aim of the paper is to make an assessment of the damage caused by the August fire and by a smaller wild fire in the same region, which broke out on July 13, 2017. The assessment is based on images from the satellites Sentinel-2A and -2B. For the identification and mapping of burned areas the spectral indices NBR (Normalized Burn Ratio) and dNBR (difference NBR) were used. Map of burn severity within the fire perimeter was compiled by reclassifying the dNBR values into three classes. The total burned area was 2199.1 ha; of this, the August fire covered 96%. The greatest part of the fire scar, over 50% of the area, is characterized with medium burn severity (dNBR between 0.27 and 0.66). Both, the lowest (dNBR between 0.1 and 0.27) and highest (dNBR>0.66) burn severity levels covered about ¼ of the total burned area. A map of the major land cover types in the study area was prepared in order to assess the most severely affected land cover types. The map is derived from supervised SVM (Support Vector Machine) classification of a Sentinel-2B image acquired before the fires. It was found that the coniferous forest class is dominated by the highest burn severity level (43.7% of the area). In the broadleaf forest class the areas with the lowest level of burn severity prevail (53.5%). The main reason is that coniferous forests in the study area represent artificial plantations created at altitude lower than the usual altitude of coniferous species in the region. Therefore they are much more susceptible to fire than broadleaf species which are native to the oak belt.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2019.40.9

Authors: Subin Ivanov, Krasimir Videv, Penka Kastreva

Abstract: Symbols have a great impact on humans, so the use of map symbols has its advantages in creating and using the map. They communicate between the map author and the reader by helping to read the map faster. There are many unified symbols in the tourist maps. However, they do not deplete the diversity of objects that represent our cultural and historical heritage (CHH). Mapping and researching of the cultural and historical heritage sites is one of the priority themes of the INSPIRE program which aims to locate them on the Earth's surface and to describe in detail their characteristics. There is no comprehensive information system in Bulgaria and a specialized map of the cultural heritage. This is yet to be done and is an urgent task. The aim of this study is to highlight the need to develop a universal symbol system covering cultural monuments of national significance. In the framework of this experiment a symbol system has been developed for the cultural and historical sites in the region of Shumen.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2019.40.10

Authors: Maya Vasileva

Abstract: All processes and phenomena have geographical dimensions which justify the presence of geography science as the main subject of study in Bulgarian school system. As such the role of geography in development of specific competences and patterns of behavior is with undeniable value for students. Against the background of growing public demands for education (and geographic one in particular), it is necessary to develop a new educational paradigm, respectively new educational models that set the student's personality and their needs, interests and responsibilities in the center of geography training process. In this regard, we are taking a step forward by presenting an exemplary educational model of geography education. We construct it on the basis of current interpretations from contemporary geography didactics in Bulgaria and in countries with developed educational systems. We present it through a metaphor having in mind that "severe" theoretical issues may be broken and examined from a different perspective and give us the possibility for further researches of the issue.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2018.39.17

Authors: Alexander Kotsev

Abstract: The manuscript provides an overview of several prominent web-based sources of geospatial information that can be used to complement, and under certain conditions substitute traditional sources of data. Each potential data source is critically reviewed. The advantages and disadvantages outlined in the article would allow informed decisions concerning the use of those sources.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2018.39.16

Authors: Sofia Kostadinova, Boris Markov, Nikolay Petrov

Abstract: Все по-голямото прилагане на географските информационни системи води до натрупване на информация, която налага нейната систематизация и подредба във вид подходящ за многократно ползване. Пространствените бази данни са мощен инструмент, който освен съхранение на данните в подреден вид, позволява различни потребители да извличат информация полезна за взимането на решенияи решаване на проблеми, планиране и др.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2018.39.12

Authors: Leonid Todorov

Abstract: One of the spheres where our country marked the most serious stagnation during theperiod of transition tomarket economy is the spatial and urban planning. Currently the campaign of preparation of new urban master plans for Bulgarian municipalities is in its peak. The better knowledge of the sources of information and all the specific characteristics of the different information arrays, as well the specific procedures of data processing, is very important for achieving good results. The purpose of this study is to mark all the specific characteristics of the data,that we need, and the procedures of their processingwith a view to providing the necessary information base for the development of the municipality's Master Plan. Here we mark all the main problems which may occur in the process of information provision of the project,the compatibility of the data from different sources with a view to achieving the required quality of the final products.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2018.39.11

Authors: Elena Todorova, Stelian Dimitrov

Abstract: The contemporary higher education in Bulgaria accumulated a number of problems over the years and they become a hindrance for it to successfully function as a driver of research and development activities, produce experts for the labor market and be a strategic business partner. Meanwhile, the higher schools have the potential to develop and influence on the regionaleconomic profile. This paper elaborates on the problems and influence of the higher education from socio-economic point of view while focusing on the regional manifestationof these problems, using visualizations, generatedby geographic information systems and studies the contemporary trends and development opportunities.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2018.39.8

Authors: Eugenia Sarafova

Abstract: The paper will examine the methodology for spatial modeling and ecotourism potential analysis through the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) in GIS, integrating data from satellite imagery. The AHP, combined with data from satellite images and GIS analysis, is an appropriate way of analyzing the ecotourism potential of a territory as it is possible to make a comprehensive overview of all aspects of the researched topic. The proposed methodology for assessing ecotourism potential could be used in different administrative territories both in Bulgaria and in other countries.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2018.39.3

Authors: Stoyan Nedkov

Abstract: Mapping and assessment of ecosystem services (ES) is a complex activity which includes spatial data acquisition, its organization into databases and generation of maps for the areas of ES supply and demand. GIS is an integral part of these activities and plays key role for the mapping and assessment of ES. There is a significant advance in the development of various tool and models for mapping and assessment during the last decade. The use of GIS in ecosystem services mapping can take three general approaches, analysis tools built into GIS software packages, disciplinary biophysical models applied for ecosystem service assessment and modeling tools designed specifically for ecosystem service assessment. This paper presents the main advantages of the GIS application in these three approaches through analysis of the available tools, models and techniques. The applications are illustrated by examples of mapping works in different areas in Bulgaria.

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DOI: 10.3897/jbgs.2018.39.2

Authors: Adelina Dimova

Abstract: This paper presents practical importance of space-time models and creation methods in GIS environment. It contains definitions of basic concepts, specifics of time-space modeling, someapproaches for modeling time and methods for integrations time-space models in GIS.Practical importance of space-time models is presented by sixexamples in two categories: study of natural factors and elements and study of socio-economic factors and elements.

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