General Aspects of Changes in Plant Coverand Landscape in Załęcze Nature Park since the End of 18th Century

Analysis of topographical maps allowed to determine the main trends of change in plant cover of an area, which has been a nature park since 1978, in four time cross - sections: end of 18th century (Gilly - Matthias map, 1802 - 1803), ca. 1830 (quarter master’s map from 1843), ca. 1930 (Military Geographical Institute maps 1 : 100000 and 1 : 25000), period of 1964 - 1975 (contemporary maps and aerophotos). The extension of wood lands and forestage of the area were estimated (Table I). It has been indicated that prevailing trends already since the early 19th century the acreage of woodlands was expanded at the cost of agricultural lands. The present vegetation consists mainly of anthropogenic communities being in different phases of s'uccesion (for summary see page 223-224)