The Brazilian Amazon provides many ecosystem services and functions as a global and regional buffer for the climate. Historically, this region has been deforested for its timber, cattle ranching, and other purposes. There has been a recent uptick in the rates of deforestation due to socio-political reasons. This research focuses on the development of a new deforestation map, based on indigenous lands and unprotected forests and uses a regional climate model to simulate land cover changes from forest to a pasture-like setting. Simulations are run for a three-year time period from 2018-2020 for April-October with a focus on the dry season when impacts of deforestation and lack of precipitation are especially important for agriculture. Results will focus on variables and indices pertinent to the farmers of the region, as water and temperature play a large role in agricultural suitability.
Brazilian Amazon Unprotected Area Deforestation Impact on Dry Season Climate
