Fire effects on Gambel oak in southwestern ponderosa pine-oak forests
The authors summarize literature on the fire regime of Gambel oak, specifically, the frequency and timing of fire in these ecosystems historically, and the effects of prescribed fire on Gambel oak.
Gambel oak can survive in forests dominated by frequent fire regimes, although top kill by fire is common. However, it is a prolific resprouter and will survive even intense wildfire and may even become the dominant species if frequent high-severity wildfire eliminates competing vegetation. The frequency and intensity of prescribed fire could be used as a tool to alter the species composition of pine-oak forests by maintaining a variety of oak growth forms. Several tactics may enhance survival of large oaks during prescribed fire: keeping pine slash away from oak boles, avoiding lighting near oaks or reducing fire intensity near oaks, and raking fuels away from oak boles.
Fire and Ecosystem Effects Linkages
Gambel oak is a prolific resprouter and will survive even intense wildfire and may become the dominant species if frequent high-severity wildfire eliminates competing vegetation.
Gambel oak can survive in forests dominated by frequent fire regimes, although top kill by fire is common. The frequency and intensity of prescribed fire could be used as a tool to alter the species composition of pine-oak forests by maintaining a variety of oak growth forms.