The researchers analyzed changes in land use in Nanxian County, Hunan Province from 1983 to 2003. They found that most of the land was used for farming and water, with high rates of cultivation. Over time, there was a decrease in cultivated land and residential areas, but an increase in fields, roads, and water areas. The speed of change was fast, especially in garden fields and forests. The intensity of land use was high, showing that adjustments were being made. Human activity had a clear impact on the landscape, with a decrease in diversity and an increase in dominance over the 20-year period.