Spatio-Temporal Assessment of Vegetation Cover Dynamics in the Kurmi Region of Taraba State, Nigeria

The study was conducted on the Spatio-temporal assessment of vegetation cover dynamics in the Kurmi Region of Taraba State, in the Savannah belt of Nigeria, using remotely sensed satellite data from LANDSAT and the Geographic Information System. The result shows that from 2010 to 2015, there was an increase in none vegetative areas (Builtup, Barren, Rock, sand) by 6.1% and a reduction of vegetation by 6.1%, also from the year 2015 to 2020, there was an increase in the none vegetative areas (Builtup, Barren, Rock, sand) by 17.9% and reduction of vegetation by 17.9%, while from 2010 to 2020 there was an increase in none vegetative areas (Builtup, Barren, Rock, sand) by 24% and reduction of vegetation by 24%. Thus, the results of this study confirm that Spatio-temporal assessment of vegetation cover dynamics using NDVI by LANDSAT TM, ETM+ and OLI data offer an excellent potential tool for characterizing and understanding vegetation changes occurring in transitional areas like the Kurmi region of Taraba State. Furthermore, the study recommended that alternative domestic energy sources, e.g. kerosene, be provided to the low-income earners to avoid over-dependence on fuelwood sourced from deforestation.