Deforestation and forest degradation in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, Mexico, 2003–2009

Between 2003 and 2009, the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Mexico experienced significant forest degradation and deforestation, with 2152 hectares affected, primarily due to illegal logging by organized gangs. These changes were concentrated in four specific areas outside the Payment for Environmental Services (PES) program and zones of land conflicts. Notably, degradation decreased where logging declined, particularly on properties included in the PES program or where exploitation permits had expired. The study used digital aerial photographs and satellite images to analyze biennial changes, revealing a trend of decreasing disturbances by 2011, attributed to the PES program, promotion of productive activities, and social work in the area.

García, J. L. (2011). Deforestation and forest degradation in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, Mexico, 2003–2009. Journal of Maps, 7(1), 626–633. https://doi.org/10.4113/jom.2011.1163