Land cover classification 2025 and analysis of historic land use changes since 1781 on Sint Eustatius

Eustatius is rich in natural ecosystems that include dry tropical forests, lowland tropical forest, montane forest, scrub, grassland and sandy beaches. The interaction between these natural ecosystems and human activities is reflected in the island’s land cover and is therefore quite dynamic. Understanding the past and current land cover is essential for effective land management and planning. These spatial patterns and dynamics inform policy and decision-making, community and cultural benefits and facilitate monitoring environmental change. In this study, we have developed a detailed land cover classification of St. Eustatius based on very high-resolution satellite imagery, field observations, and local knowledge, including an analysis of the broad land cover changes since 1781.