View this webinar to learn more about a science and management synthesis on managing post-fire, climate-induced vegetation transitions in the Northwest.

Overview -

NW CASC researchers organized a Deep Dive process using a co-production approach to address post-fire vegetation transitions under climate change. They worked collaboratively with researchers, practitioners and students to assess the state of knowledge and practice associated with managing post-fire vegetation change and to develop an actionable science agenda for addressing this risk. Deep Dive participants emphasized that creating opportunities for scientists, managers, and tribal communities to develop interpersonal relationships and shared experience is essential for developing science and management that respectfully integrates Traditional Knowledge. The resulting actionable science agenda will guide the Northwest CASC and their partners in directing resources to address key gaps in knowledge and practice around this urgent and emerging climate risk.

Key Findings -

Climate-driven, post-fire vegetation transitions are occurring in shrubland and forest systems in the Northwest, especially at lower elevations east of the Cascade Range. Managers are observing transitions and are concerned but face institutional barriers and resource limitations that hinder their ability to respond. The effectiveness of strategies for managing post-fire vegetation transitions remains largely untested but likely varies depending on where or when action is taken. Traditional Knowledge has not received adequate recognition or respect from non-tribal entities, limiting its meaningful integration into the management of post-fire vegetation transitions. There are many online tools that can help guide management decision-making around climate-driven, post-fire vegetation transitions, but little assessment or guidance exists to inform their use. Managing vegetation transitions is a function of what is both biophysically possible and socially acceptable. Collaboration and knowledge sharing among diverse partners - while challenging - will be necessary to manage vegetation transitions at ecologically relevant scales.