Using Wood Decay Fungi to Reduce Wildfire Risk and Improve Soil Health

The rapid decomposition of slash pile wood is considered beneficial because it decreases fire risk, but little is known about wood decomposition in the intermountain area of the U.S. In southwest Idaho (an area prone to wildfires), researchers are studying slash piles to understand how they decompose naturally.

For this research, some slash piles will be treated with wood decay fungi while other piles are left untreated. Wood decay fungi are specialized organisms capable of breaking down wood into its basic components. These fungi play a critical role in healthy soil. By comparing decomposition rates between the treated and untreated piles, the researchers will learn how effective the wood decay fungi are at speeding up decomposition.

The scientists will also explore how different pile sizes, densities, and shapes impact wood decomposition rates and greenhouse gas emissions. They will compare carbon movement from the slash piles to what happens during open burning or on-site biochar production.

Objectives

• Field experiments: The research team will identify techniques to break down leftover wood (low- and no-value wood residues) faster after trees are harvested. This will help reduce the risk of wildfires.
• Maximize carbon transfer: The researchers will also aim to move more carbon from the wood into the soil.

Expected Results

Outputs

• The research team will develop management guidelines based on their findings. 
• They will share their results through presentations, online tools, and various publications.
• They will set up a long-term monitoring network for slash piles to see how different management efforts impact the landscape.

Expected Outcomes

Land managers will have clearer guidance on how to handle slash piles effectively.

Metrics of Success

Success will be measured by whether or not land managers actually use the tools and guidelines developed from this study to deal with slash piles.

Geographies and High-Risk Landscapes to be Addressed

This work has implications for better understanding slash pile decomposition in the intermountain west.