Exploring Shifts in the Timing of the Growing Season: A Remote Sensing Analysis of Vegetation Dynamics in Val Grande National Park

Abstract

This thesis investigates the potential shift in the timing of the end of the growing season by analyzing vegetation dynamics using remote sensing and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). The study focuses on the Val Grande National Park in northern Italy as the study area. The Landsat 8 satellite imagery is used to assess NDVI trends over specific time intervals, including monthly trends and 16-day moving windows. The results suggest potential shifts in the timing of the growing season based on the analysis of monthly and moving window trends. October exhibits pronounced changes, with vibrant green and red colors indicating increased NDVI values and improved vegetation health. These findings suggest a possible extension of the growing season into October. However, various factors, such as species composition and local environmental conditions, may contribute to these observed changes. Further research is needed to establish definitive trends and understand the underlying factors driving these shifts.