By: Olaiya T. O.; Akindele S. O.; Onyekwelu J. C.;
Abstract:
Increase in urbanization and human activities has caused notable changes in global forest cover structure, with significant effect on the ecological value associated with forest resources. Sustainable management and monitoring of urban green spaces can contribute to the resilience of cities to lessen the severity of the effects of urban losses. This study assessed the spatial distribution of urban green spaces in Akure metropolis, in Ondo State, Nigeria using Geographical Information System (GIS) and other Remote Sensing (RS) tools. Landsat imageries for the years 1995, 2005, 2015, and 2025 were classified on ArcMap 10.4.1. Also, landscape metrics was done for the classified classes using FRAGSTATS. The GIS result shows a sharp decline in dense forest from 36.69 Km2 (1995) to 5.77 Km2 (2025) and a progressive increase in non-forested area from 28.67 Km2 (1995) to 92.99 Km2 (2025). FRAGSTATS metrics collectively highlight a landscape in transition. Dense forest becoming increasingly fragmented and less connected, with Patch Density of 1.333 in 1995 which rose to 9.717 in 2025, while non-forested areas with Patch Density of 0.3314 (1995) rose to 1.2427 (2025) dominating the spatial structure. This study recommends incorporation of green infrastructure into the master plan of Akure Metropolis, protection of remnant forests through legal framework, community-based forest management, and a continuous monitoring using remote sensing and GIS.
Keywords: Urbanization, Remote Sensing and GIS, Urban Forestry, Environmental Sustainability, Akure Metropolis.
Keywords: Urbanisation ; Remote Sensing and GIS; Urban Forestry; Environmental Sustainability ; Akure Metropolis
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