Fire plays an important role in the perpetuation of forests, prairies, and wetlands in the Upper Midwest. The effects of fire in these habitats have profound implications to wildlife because of the dynamic changes in plant species composition and habitat structure. At the same time, wildlife species may be instrumental in the regeneration of forests, prairies, and wetlands following fire, through enhancement of seed dispersal, seed viability, and the development of soils. Hence, the role that fire plays in altering plant and soil ecosystem structure is closely intertwined with the dynamic processes that take place in the animal communities. These interactions represent complex feedback loops that affect forests, prairies, and wetlands following fire. Many species of wildlife (e.g., Kirtland's warbler [Dendroica kirtlandii], sharptailed grouse [Tympanuchus phasianellus], yellow rail [Coturnicops noveboracensis], black-backed woodpecker [Picoides tridactylus], and moose [Alces alces], likely depend on fire conditions for their continued existence, and it is prudent to include fire as an active component in the dynamic management of wildlife in the Lake States area. However, the role that fire plays in the continued management of these areas should be scrutinized where human and important natural resources are located.