Changes in overland flow and infiltration after a rangeland fire in a Mediterranean scrubland

Changes in overland flow and infiltration after a wildfire (summer 1989) in a typical Mediterranean scrubland were measured during the winters of 1990, 1991, 1992 and 1995 by means of simulated rainfall. Infiltration increases gradually from 1990 (sixth months after the forest fire) to 1995 (five and a half years after the forest fire). Overland flow decreases from 45% of rainfall after the forest fire to less than 6% five and a half years later. The reduction in overland flow was greatest in the first two years after the fire because of the quick recovery of vegetation. The steady-state infiltration capacity increased every year after the fire. Runoff and infiltration changes are mainly determined by the gradual recovery of vegetation. (C) 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.