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Abstract
Fire affects nutrient cycling and the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils occupied by western montane forests. Combustion of litter and soil organic matter (OM) increases the availability of some nutrients, although others are volatilized (for example, N, P, S). Soil OM loss also affects cation exchange capacity, organic chelation, aggregate stability, macro pore space, infiltration, and soil microorganisms. Nitrogen replenishment must be emphasized when prescribed burning programs are planned or during rehabilitation following wildfires.
Parent Publication
Keywords
soil formation,
soil properties,
plant communities,
ecosystems,
fire influences,
rhizosphere biology,
silviculture,
monitoring,
nitrogen fixation,
ectomycorrhiza,
erosion,
diseases,
climate change
Citation
DeBano, Leonard F. 1991. The effect of fire on soil properties. In: Harvey, Alan E.; Neuenschwander, Leon F., compilers. Proceedings-management and productivity of western-montane forest soils; 1990 April 10-12; Boise, ID. Gen. Tech. Rep. INT-280. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Intermountain Research Station. p. 151-156.
