Assessment of Rangeland Degradation in New Mexico Using Time Series Segmentation and Residual Trend Analysis (TSS-RESTREND)

Rangelands provide significant socioeconomic and environmental benefits to humans. However, climate variability anthropogenic drivers can negatively impact rangeland productivity. The main goal of this study was investigate structural productivity changes in ecosystems New Mexico (NM), the southwestern United States America during 1984–2015 period. This achieved by applying time series segmented residual trend analysis (TSS-RESTREND) method, using datasets normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) from Global Inventory Modeling Mapping Studies precipitation Parameter elevation Regressions on Independent Slopes Model (PRISM), developing an assessment framework. results indicated that about 17.6% 12.8% NM experienced a decrease increase productivity, respectively. More than half state (55.6%) had insignificant change 10.8% classified as indeterminant, 3.2% considered agriculture. A observed 2.2%, 4.5%, 1.7% NM’s grassland, shrubland, ever green forest land cover classes, Significant northeastern southeastern quadrants while northwestern, southwestern, small portion quadrants. timing detected breakpoints coincided with some drought events self-calibrated Palmar Drought Severity Index their number increased since 2000s following similar severity. Some were concurrent fire events. combination these two types disturbances partly explain emergence degradation Using breakpoint framework developed study, based TSS-RESTREND showed only 55% agreement Rangeland Productivity Monitoring Service (RPMS) data. There between RPMS occurrence over grasslands shrublands within Arizona/NM Tablelands Chihuahua Desert ecoregions, is critical support decision-making process for management; address challenges related sustainability forage supply livestock production; conserve biodiversity rangelands ecosystems; resilience. Future should consider effects rising temperatures