Krajobrazowe skutki wzrostu powierzchni leśnych na Wyżynie Częstochowskiej

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to track back the changes in the forest range within the Częstochowa Upland, basing on the cartographic analyses using computer-aided technologies. The research covered the area of the Częstochowa Upland with cultural landscape which is unique in Poland. Among other factors, the choice of the region resulted from the fact that the region is well documented cartographically and the changes in forest ranges throughout the history are well recorded. The analysis was carried out in relation to the course of settlement, economic, and political processes, and also with regards to the contemporary policy of nature protection. Another argument for the choice of the Częstochowa Upland for the research was the fact that the forests in that area are considered (among environmentalists and historic buildings conservation officers) as a controversial component of the landscape. Excessive and uncontrolled increase in afforestation is a threat to existence of peculiar species of fauna and flora, and also makes it harder to admire the unique natural and historical-cultural components. These regional features vanish and the physiognomy of the region becomes poorer, which has negative consequences, e.g. for landscape protection, tourism and sightseeing.