The effects of burn entry and burn severity on ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests in Grand Canyon National Park

Repeated prescribed fires with increased severity are necessary to effectively reduce white fir encroachment and promote aspen regeneration in Grand Canyon National Park's ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests. The study found that single, low-severity burns did not alter tree composition or structure in white fir-encroached areas, while second-entry low-severity burns significantly reduced white fir densities. In dry mixed conifer forests, high-severity fire triggered substantial aspen regeneration. Researchers analyzed burn entry effects and severity on species composition and regeneration across two forest types, providing critical insights for future forest management strategies.

Higgins, A. M., Waring, K. M., & Thode, A. E. (2015). The effects of burn entry and burn severity on ponderosa pine and mixed conifer forests in Grand Canyon National Park. International Journal of Wildland Fire, 24(4), 495–506. https://doi.org/10.1071/wf13111