Potential Hazard of Open Space Fire in Black Pine Stands (Pinus nigra J.F. Arnold) in Regard to Fire Severity

Damir Barčić,Tomislav Dubravac,Marko Vučetić

doi:10.15177/seefor.20-16

Abstract

Black pine (Pinus nigra J.F. Arnold) is one of the most important reforestation species for dry and rocky terrain in the sub-Mediterranean zone. Fire is an important factor in black pine stands that largely defines the distribution range of black pine and the floristic composition of its stands. Fire causes less damage during autumn or early spring when tree cones contain ripe seeds that can partially reforest burnt surfaces. Every fire is a potentially significant threat to forest habitats. There are many damages, from direct damages to wood mass and reforestation costs, to indirect ecological, edaphic, protective damages and the loss of biological diversity. The aim of prevention works in forestry is to reduce the number of fires and reduce burnt surface area per fire. Research was based on vegetation analysis performed on each experimental plot in a black pine stand. The assessment of fire severity was performed using the Canadian Forest Fire Weather Index (FWI). The assessment of the severity of fire indicates the suitability of conditions for the occurrence of forest fires, and enables sound and effective protective methods beginning with silvicultural works. The results indicate better quality stands in the higher parts of the sub-Mediterranean area. Taking into account the climatic parameter, the areas on the border with the continental climate have better habitat conditions for black pine. Also, attention should be focused on 2012 and 2015. High values (Figure 13 – 16.22, Figure 11 – 6.99, Figure 8 – 8.38, Figure 7 – 12.02 and 12.25, Figure 5 – 8.32) indicate the overlapping of extremely dry periods and extremely high summer temperatures, and probably a strong wind influence that further increases the index. Fire severity assessments indicate the suitability of conditions for the onset of fire.

Highlights

In the sense of amelioration, black pine plays an irreplaceable role in processes that halt habitat degradation and the expansion of various forms of erosion
On the Istrian Peninsula and Kvarner region, black pine primarily grows on limestone, even though it is found on flysch substrates
The results indicate better quality stands in the higher parts of the sub-Mediterranean area

Summary

Introduction

In the sense of amelioration, black pine plays an irreplaceable role in processes that halt habitat degradation and the expansion of various forms of erosion. Black pine (Pinus nigra J.F. Arnold), as a reforestation species for karst landscapes, has been used throughout most of Northern Adriatic coast (the Istrian Peninsula and the Kvarner region). Particular success has been achieved during the work and establishment of the Supervision branch, as the Inspectorate for the Afforestation of Karst, Bare Rocky Grounds and Flood Control in the area of Senj on the north Adriatic coast (Ivančević 1978, 2003, 2005). Black pine has been one of the fundamental afforestation species in the Dinaric karst area of Croatia during large forest raising projects (which started 150 years ago) by Croatian forestry (Martinović 2003). Black pine is one of the most important species for the afforestation of dry and rocky grounds in the sub-Mediterranean zone, and it is found most often on limestone and dolomite substrates. Since pine is a pioneer species that progressively colonizes abandoned and devastated habitats, after the depopulation of

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