Mapping and impact of seasonal forest fires on vegetation types, soil dynamics, and tree mortality in the forest ecosystem of Uttarakhand Himalaya

Himanshu Bargali; Dinesh Bhatt; Rakesh Chandra Sundriyal; Virendra Prasad Uniyal

doi:10.3097/LO.2024.1128

Authors

Himanshu Bargali Department of Zoology and Environment Science, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed to be University), India https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1364-2769
Dinesh Bhatt Department of Zoology and Environment Science, Gurukula Kangri (Deemed to be University), India https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0752-2448
Rakesh Chandra Sundriyal Department of Forestry and Natural Resource Management, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna (A Central University), Srinagar, India https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0873-0609
Virendra Prasad Uniyal Department of Biotechnology Graphic Era University (Deemed to be University), Dehradun, India https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5757-6383

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3097/LO.2024.1128

Keywords:

Forest fires, fire frequency, vegetation dynamics, soil properties, tree mortality, management strategies, Uttarakhand Himalaya

Abstract

This study investigates forest fire dynamics and their implications for management in the Uttarakhand Himalaya region. Utilizing remote sensing analysis, field surveys, and socio-economic assessments, the research aims to understand the spatial and temporal patterns of fires, assess their impact on vegetation, soil properties, and biodiversity, and propose effective management strategies. Results reveal a significant increase in fire frequency and severity, with a 25% rise in fire occurrences observed over the past decade. High-intensity fires caused extensive damage to vegetation, with a 40% reduction in tree density observed in severely affected areas. Soil organic matter loss due to fires averages at 15%, threatening ecosystem health and resilience. However, opportunities for fire management exist, including prescribed burning and community-based prevention programs. Policy recommendations emphasize the importance of integrating ecological and socio-economic perspectives into fire management strategies to promote ecosystem resilience and community adaptation. This study contributes valuable insights for policymakers, forest managers, and local communities to develop science-based fire management policies and practices, ultimately fostering sustainable forest management and fire risk reduction in the Uttarakhand Himalaya region.

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