Effects of Spring Burning on a Mountain Range

Abstract

The physical, biological, and chemical consequences of burning mountain range were monitored the year of a spring burn on the Gallatin National Forest, Montana. Two sites within the burn were intensively studied. Burning did not cause any major changes in soil chemical or physical properties. Significant soil chemical changes occurred regardless of the fire influence. Burning resulted in early reduction of basal cover of vegetation. This effect was decreased as the season advanced. A listing of species damaged by burning and favored by burning is provided.