The vast majority of Yellowstone National Park is covered in forests, but the amount of dead, standing trees is alarming some researchers to the possibility of an intense wildfire season.
About 40% of the park is experiencing moderate to high levels of tree mortality, according to a recent study published in Forest Ecosystems. Decades of pest infestations, drought and past wildfires have left large areas of the park filled with dry, dead timber. The study sought to understand how dead trees might provide fuel for fast-moving wildfires.
Researchers found that forested areas near park entrances and popular sites are the most vulnerable, along with the central-west area of the park, which was hit hardest by past fires.
Role of fires in Yellowstone’s ecosystem
Yellowstone’s historic 1988 fires were instrumental in the public’s understanding of the role of fire in ecosystems. Even burned and dead trees contribute to an environment, providing nesting areas, food and shelter for animals, and nutrients for the soil, according to Yellowstone’s website.
Many natural species in the park have adapted to survive fires, and fires are essential to promoting habitat diversity.
While fires can be healthy for an ecosystem, the researchers’ main concern was the vulnerability of areas near public access points. According to a press release, the researchers “hope their methods can be applied to other regions facing the same challenges, allowing for better-informed fire management strategies.”
