Land cover dynamics in western Bieszczady Mts between 19^th and 20^th century

The aim of this paper was to indicate the main directions in cover changes and land use in Western Bieszczady Mts. Two areas differing in altitudes, were taken into analysis: part of Bieszczady Wysokie Mts (for years 1852 and 2004) and Baligrod Forest District area (for years 1938 and 1996). Changes in land cover were estimated based on map overlapping, and using indices of changes. Transformations related to almost 40% of Baligrod Forest District area and insignificantly less in Bieszczady Wysokie Mts. Within the study areas, regions with considerable stability and also regions with intensive changes on vast areas appeared. The origin of differences in the land use of both study areas emerged not only from natural changes, but also from historical, social and economic changes.