Fire Effects Information System

Publication information:

Haggerty, P. K. 1994. Damage and recovery in southern Sierra Nevada foothill oak woodland after a severe ground fire. Madrono. 41(3): 185-198.

Abstract—Mortality, epicormic sprouting, basal sprouting, and fire scar formation were evaluated in 148 tagged oak trees in a blue oak (Quercus douglasii) woodland in Sequoia National Park, California, for 2 years after a severe surface fire. Fire-caused mortality was low, 6% in blue oak and 11% in interior live oak (Quercus wislizenii). Epicormic sprouts developed in 65% of blue oaks and were most frequent in blue oaks with more than 50% crown scorch. Interior live oak showed less epicormic sprouting but developed basal sprouts more frequently than blue oak. New fire scars developed on a majority of blue oaks, even in areas where fire severity was low. Despite the general severity of the fire, blue oak crown recovery was almost complete within 2 postfire years. Interior live oak was reduced in importance on the site but is expected to regain canopy cover as basal sprouts develop.

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SPECIES INDEX: This research paper provides information on responses of the following species to fire. For further information, follow the highlighted links to FEIS reviews of individual species.

This Research Paper Index was compiled by Janet Fryer, December 2011.