The Potential for Restoration to Break the Grass/Fire Cycle in Dryland Ecosystems in Hawaii
Abstract
Objectives: This study used remote sensing and field-based experiments to provide basic scientific information and practical tools for managing and restoring tropical dry forest landscapes on military lands in the Pacific. Results have and will continue to directly benefit the military mission in the Pacific by increasing capacity to restore native forests, thereby reducing wildfire and enhancing habitat for threatened and endangered species. Technical Approach: Project objectives were addressed and tested in dry forest regions on the Island of Hawaii. Remote sensing methods included: (1) analysis of historical and current conditions, (2) high-resolution ecosystem mapping, (3) field validation of remotely sensed data, and (4) web-based satellite monitoring. Field-based methods addressed the potential for restoration of native species to alter ecosystem structure in a manner that will reduce fine fuels and fire danger. This field-based effort addressed the major barriers to restoration in a sequential manner across remnant native community types, and it developed and tested the effectiveness of a firebreak design that incorporates traditional fuel breaks (i.e. strips with fuels removed mechanically) grading into greenstrips planted with fire resistant native species.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1022218
Entities
People
- Erin Questad
- Gregory P. Asner
- Jarrod Thaxton
- Jim Kellner
- Susan Cordell
Organizations
- United States Forest Service