Simulation modeling of the impact of forest fire on the carbon pool in coniferous forests of European Russia and Central Canada

Abstract

Data on the long-term simulation of the dynamics of coniferous forest ecosystems in European Russia and Central Canada with different forest-fire scenarios using the EFIMOD dynamic model of forest ecosystems are presented. It is proved that all types of fires result in a decrease in height, diameter, density, growing stock, and pools of soil organic matter in the simulated forest stands in both Russia and Canada when compared to the clear-cutting system in taiga forests of both countries. A long-term reduction of net biological productivity is also revealed. Carbon loss related to the burning of phytomass and forest floor reaches its maximum during canopy (crown) fires, as well as during ground fires after the clear cutting of pyrogenic forest stand.