Fire Rehabilitation Effects and Effectiveness

Mitigation of ecological damage caused by rangeland wildfires focuses on conservation of ecosystem function through reducing soil erosion and spread of invasive plants. The overall effectiveness of these treatments is variable, and their necessity has been debated recently. We conduct research projects and synthesize findings to determine if mitigation treatments: 1) protect ecosystems against soil erosion and 2) reduce invasion or abundance of undesirable, non-native plant species. In addition, we work with management agencies to develop science-based monitoring protocols and to access long-term impacts of these treatments on ecosystem processes.