In this paper we examine the development of vegetation in the Pre-Ural foredeep in the last 160 years (from 1852 to 2012) according to the multi-temporal cartographic material and space images. The study found the substitution of broad-leaved forest trees, by small-leaved tress of meadow vegetation by steppe grasses. The reason for the changes is anthropomorphic processes. Cutting down of oak and maple forests, and lack of reforestation led to their full extinction. The rise of the territory, shift of groundwater into deeper horizons led to the draining and replacement of meadow grasses by less hydrophilous and drought-resistant grasses. A deeper study of the physical and geographical conditions of the area is necessary.