Sample-Based Estimation of Tree Cover Change in Haiti Using Aerial Photography: Substantial Increase in Tree Cover between 2002 and 2010

Recent studies have used high resolution imagery to estimate tree cover and changes in natural forest Haiti. However, there is still no rigorous quantification of change accounting for planted or managed trees, which are very important Haiti’s farming systems. We estimated net change, gross loss, gain Haiti between 2002 2010 from a stratified random sample 400 pixels with systematic sub-sample 25 points. Using 30 cm 1 m images, we classified land at each point, any point touching woody plant higher than 5 as crown. found increase crown equivalent 5.0 ± 2.3% (95% confidence interval) area. Gross gains losses amounted 9.0 2.1% 4.0 1.3% the territory, respectively. These results challenge, first time empirical evidence, predominant narrative that portrays experiencing ongoing loss. The quantified here represents 35% 2010. Further research needed determine drivers this substantial national scale.