Effects of low intensity prescribed fires on ponderosa pine forests in wilderness areas of Zion National Park, Utah

Vegetation and fuel loading plots were monitored and sampled in wilderness areas treated with prescribed fire. Changes in ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) forest structure tree species and fuel loading are presented. Plots were randomly stratified and established in bum units in 1995. Preliminary analysis of nine plots 2 years after burning show litter was reduced 54.3 percent, duff was reduced 34.7 percent, ponderosa pine tree density in the 10.2 cm to 30.5 cm. d.b.h. (diameter at breast height) size class was reduced 18 percent, and ponderosa pine tree density greater than 61.2 cm d.b.h. increased in Zion National Park.