ASSESSMENT OF THE GEO-ECOLOGICAL SITUATION OF HIGH MOUNTAIN LANDSCAPES USING GIS TECHNOLOGIES (IN THE CASE OF THE GREAT CAUCASUS)

As a result of anthropogenic impacts, it is possible to observe changes in landscapes not only in plains, but also in mountainous areas. In particular, the melting of glaciers in high-mountainous areas as a result of global warming and the shrinking of glacier areas are examples of this. In this case, their long-term study is important. In this regard, our study is dedicated to a topical topic. In the 21st century, there are various opportunities to conduct long-term studies using modern methods during the study of the territory. In this article, we have analyzed the study of the geoecological situation in the high-mountainous landscapes of the Greater Caucasus using GIS technologies and its results. At this time, priority was given to modern methods and techniques, modern methods, processing and analysis of satellite images. In addition, field research and materials of previous researchers were also used. When analyzing the geoecological situation of landscapes, we also used the results of the study of vegetation cover, soil cover and surface temperature obtained from our previous studies. As a result of the conducted studies, the landscapes in the study area were regionalized according to their geoecological status and 3 classifications were distinguished: relatively unchanged, weakly and moderately changed landscapes. It was determined that most of the territory belongs to relatively unchanged and moderately changed areas. The main reason for this is that the relief of the area is unfavorable for development. However, considering that the area also has the most productive summer pastures, we also observe problems such as vegetation degradation and soil erosion.