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Abstract:

The main goal of this study was to quantify landscape changes and fragmentation in the Nera Gorges-Beuşniţa National Park and its vicinity, using CORINE land cover data (1990 – 2012 period) and to emphasise the importance of protected area status for the reduction of the fragmentation process and the loss of the benefits rendered by ecosystems. Landscape analysis is the primary framework to build harmonious human-environment relationships and to implement sustainable development measures. For this purpose, ten landscape metrics were calculated to highlight the landscape composition, shape, and configuration. Five landscape change processes were also analysed: dissection, shrinkage, attrition, aggregation and creation. The results highlight minor landscape changes, as well as a tendency to homogenise landscapes by reducing landscape fragmentation and by involving the population in the implementation of a reliable strategy for the development and promotion of tourism, aiming to ensure sustainable development of this area. The results of the study are especially important because they provide a very good example of how to manage a protected area, particularly if we consider the numerous dysfunctions (i.e., illegal deforestation, accessibility of restricted areas for conservation) that occur in Romania.