Influence of fire on curl-leaf mountain-mahogany in the Intermountain West

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Comprehensive sampling of curlleaf mountain-mahogany (Cercocarpus ledifolius) on 41 sites in five states allowed an assessment of post-fire population dynamics, differences in regeneration patterns, and critical events in stand regeneration. Historical accounts of fire, fire history studies, and early photographs provided historical perspective and contributed to interpretations. The combined quantitative and historical evidence strongly suggests that before European settlement, fire significantly influenced mahogany in the Northern Rockies by restricting its development. A reduction of fire periodicity and size following Euroamerican settlement apparently allowed mahogany seedlings to regenerate far in excess of former levels. The absenve of fire for long periods has resulted in great variation in structure of mahogany stands. Many stands are in a declining condition because the absence of fire has allowed them to reach advanced stages of succession. In some areas, closure of mahogany crowns, excessive litter accumulation, and competition from other vegetation are inhibiting regeneration. In other areas, young vigorous mahogany predominate. These wide differences in stand conditions suggest different management strategies. Many mahogany communities would respond positively to fire, whereas others would not. Management implications are given.

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ELECTRONIC FILE - Ecology

SWAP (2/19/2016) citation:
Gruell G, Bunting S, Neuenschwander L. 1985. Influence of fire on curlleaf mountain-mahogany in the Intermountain West. In: Lotan JE, Brown JK, editors. Fire's Effects on Wildlife Habitat—symposium proceedings; 1984 Mar 21; Missoula (MT). Ogden (UT): U.S. Forest Service, Intermountain Research Station. INT-GTR-186. p. 58-72. [accessed 2015 Nov 19]. http://www.fs.fed.us/rm/pubs_int/int_gtr186.pdf.