Fire in Eastern Oak Forests – A Primer

This 15-page booklet introduces fire ecology as it relates to the  management of oak forests in the eastern U.S.

TOPICS

— Is burning forests good or bad?

— Fire’s role in oak ecosystems

— Fire history in the Eastern U.S.

— Comparing prescribed fire and wildfire

— Costs and benefits of burning

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ABSTRACT

This publication provides an introduction to the concepts that are important to understanding fire in the ecology and management of oak forests in the eastern United States. Fire historically was common in eastern oak forests and woodlands but perceptions of fire changed and suppression became the norm. Research has demonstrated how fire-maintained woodlands and savannas are occupied by plant and wildlife species that require more open conditions than that in closed-canopy forests. Fire is essential to maintaining oak forests. In addition to favoring oaks, fire creates an environment that allows regeneration of other tree species and stimulates germination of a diverse assemblage of herbaceous plants in the understory.