Soil Protection and Restoration After Forest Fires: The Role of Bioengineering - Commented by Mr. José Luis Rubio, A Scientist of Soil and Water Conservation Research, Deputy President of WASWAC

Abstract

ObjectiveThe basic approaches in soil protection in burned forest areas were discussed in order to expound the emerging field of bioengineering applied to soil restoration and stabilization, to soil protection against different types of erosion, in the maintenance of landscape quality and in terms of biodiversity and aesthetic values. MethodsThis study was conducted by reviewing and evaluating the current techniques of bioengineering applied to soil conservation and restoration after forest fires in Spain, setting out some basic principles and describing a few successful examples of applications in various areas affected by forest fires. ResultsThe key part of the fundamentals of bioengineering applied to conservation and restoration of soils is based on some traditional principles of soil conservation, especially in regard to the ecological coherence with the specific site of intervention and the use of simple techniques. Also we should not underestimate the role of more recent techniques of civil engineering. These techniques (e.g. use of gabions) are subjected to a process of introducing a greater role for the biological elements (mainly plant materials) which are the main actors in stabilizing the soil in relation to the climate and biophysical characteristics of the area of intervention. Along with living materials, various biomaterials such as plant residues, cut bushes, lignified elements and the wide range of geotextils are also used. These techniques are gathered into four main groups: ① techniques to protect soil, ② stabilization of the ground, ③ combination of reconstruction techniques, and ④ additional stabilization techniques. ConclusionBioengineering applied to soil conservation provides a more environmentally tailored approach that promotes more efficiency in the long term. It also shows advantages in aspects such as its low cost, better adaptation and benefits of multifunctional landscapes. Nevertheless, it includes some important drawbacks such as manpower requirements and the lack of knowledge and availability of suitable plant material, especially in areas of dry climate conditions. Despite these difficulties, bioengineering is an emerging, promising and fast growing applied technique for the new demands on soil protection in the cases of emergency interventions after forest fires impacts.