Many human societies in the past have used fire to manage grassland and forest ecosystems.

Question

What are two societal or ecological benefits of managing an ecosystem using fire?

Part A

(2 points)

I

B

Part B

In the United States, land management stressed fire suppression in the early- and mid-twentieth century. What were two results of this policy?

(2 points)

Part C

Why might a management policy of controlled burns be controversial in some communities living close to wilderness areas?

(1 point)

Answer 1

Part A:

1. Promotes biodiversity: Fire can help create a mosaic of habitats within an ecosystem, leading to an increase in the diversity of plants and animals. Some species are even dependent on periodic fires for their survival.

2. Reduces fuel load: By intentionally burning areas of grassland or forest, the amount of flammable material is reduced, decreasing the risk of large, destructive wildfires.

Part B:

1. Increased fuel loads: By suppressing fires, the amount of dead vegetation builds up, creating a higher risk of larger wildfires that are more difficult to control.

2. Loss of biodiversity: Without the natural process of periodic fires, some species that rely on fire for their survival may decline or disappear from the ecosystem.

Part C:

Controlled burns can be controversial in communities living close to wilderness areas because they may be concerned about the potential for the controlled burn to get out of control and threaten their homes or livelihoods. Additionally, there may be disagreements about the timing or frequency of controlled burns, as well as concerns about the impact of smoke on air quality and human health.