Fueling Collaboration is a series of interactive panel discussions designed to connect fire managers and researchers. Each discussion is built on questions from registered attendees. We are working to bring people together to discuss, explore, and address the latest fire science and fire management issues across the eastern United States.
December 12, 2024 - Session 5.2 of the Fueling Collaboration Panel Discussion Series took place with a very informative session entitled, Prescribed Fire and Wetlands: an Important but Rarely Told Story.
Wetlands are the forgotten sibling of the prescribed fire world. While upland ecosystems across the Eastern U.S. have received significant attention for their fire-dependency, wetlands—characterized by their more episodic encounters with fire—rarely receive equitable fire management investments. Fire managers face unique challenges in these environments, where hydric soils, muck, and dense vegetation can prolong smoke production, encourage smoldering, and hinder vehicle access. As a result, fire-dependent wetlands nationwide have suffered, leading to declines in numerous plant and animal species. In this Fueling Collaboration panel discussion, we will explore the role of fire in various wetland ecosystems and examine the challenges and opportunities associated with its use. Join us as we hear from scientists, land managers, and biologists working in pocosins, marshes, swamps, bogs, and isolated wetlands.
Simply click on the video above to view the session. If you wish to learn more about the Fueling Collaboration Panel Discussion Series such as upcoming sessions of view past season offerings please click the button below.