Multitemporal Analysis of Land Cover Changes in the Rabanal Páramo Ecosystem (Colombia) From 2000 to 2020 and Its Planning Regulations

Abstract

The páramos, with their high biodiversity and benefits to humanity, are crucial ecosystems in Colombia. Despite their importance, there is a significant knowledge gap regarding the extent of land cover changes and the identification of planning regulatory milestones on these ecosystems. The Rabanal Páramo Regional District, a water supplier for the capital city of Tunja, is under threat. The protected area faces land use conflicts, and updated information needs to be provided on how natural covers have been affected by grazing or the expansion of the agricultural frontier. Considering this, the main goal of this research was to recognize land cover changes in the Rabanal Páramo from 2000 to 2020. To achieve this, we conducted a multi‐temporal analysis using the Corine Land Cover methodology adapted for Colombia. Additionally, we identified the various planning regulations that have contributed to this ecosystem's conservation and restoration efforts. Results showed that the bush cover has significantly decreased, from 27.9% of the total area in 2000 to 20.5% in 2020. In contrast, the mosaic of crops, pastures, and natural spaces has expanded from 2.5% of the total area in 2000 to 8.1% in 2020. The primary strategy in the páramo management plan involves using zoning and land type regulations. Urgent action is needed to balance the demands of agricultural development with the preservation of the páramo ecosystem to ensure a sustainable existence between human activities and the environment.