Observational analysis shows prescribed fire increased mortality in a drought-stressed Trembling Aspen stand, highlighting fire's role in managing grassland encroachment.
A small stand of drought-stressed Trembling Aspen (Populus tremuloides) near Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, was surveyed before and after a prescribed fire. A headfire in grass understorey fuel caused near complete mortality of established stems and of all aspen saplings. In the second and third years post-fire, only limited establishment of saplings was observed. Woody encroachment by aspen into grassland is challenging to control in the Aspen Parkland ecoregion; our results indicate that combining prescribed burning with secondary stress from drought conditions can enhance the fire effects.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Hydomako et al. (2025) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: