Land Cover and Land Use Mapping as Practical Guides for Reforestation and Community Relations: Barlo Copper Project, Western Pangasinan

Claro Jose C. Manipon*, Arnel R. Abrihan**, Mark Esvelt**

*Mines and Geosciences Bureau
**Montague Resources Philippines Corporation

Abstract

Land cover and land use mapping of exploration permit areas are best conducted by using fairly recent high resolution satellite imagery. The product of such exercise provides many uses to the company since it could: (1) be declared as part of the semestral work accomplishment of the exploration and environmental work program; (2) form part of the baseline data for environmental impact studies once an EP is converted into MPSA; (3) monitor natural and anthropogenic land form and land cover modifications; (4) monitor the growth of land-based economic activities by the host community; and (5) provide an input to land valuation should the EP holder decide to acquire land for mining. Recently, the implementers of the Barlo Copper Project also used the land cover and land use maps as key inputs in planning for reforestation and enhancing host community relations. With the use of information gathered from the mapping exercise, the following were identified: (1) priority areas for reforestation; (2) indigenous tree species that are not only resilient to ARD environment but that which will also increase the local and traditional livelihood; and (3) sources of tree seedlings and modes of acquisition. With these mapping data inputs the project implementers not only increased its chances of sustaining its reforestation effort, they also provided an opportunity to increase the income of local residents both current and in the future.