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The views expressed in this article are those of the authors. Publication in Open Research Europe does not imply endorsement of the European Commission or Open Research Europe.
Introduction
The world is currently grappling with a range of environmental challenges, such as the climate crisis, loss of biodiversity, forest degradation and deforestation, and extreme wildfires (Duane et al., 2021). These issues are interconnected and present significant scientific and technical hurdles for policymakers. Urgent and coordinated global action is needed to tackle these environmental challenges. Although the timeline for making substantial progress is uncertain, immediate action is crucial to prevent further damage. By demonstrating strong political will, increasing public awareness, and fostering global cooperation, significant strides can be made in the coming decades. However, achieving long-term sustainability will require continuous efforts and a commitment to integrating environmental considerations into all aspects of society.
Standard restoration principles of degraded forest landscapes have been established to support the restoration of burnt wildland areas, considering ecological, social, cultural, economic, and life and health aspects. In the pursuit of enhancing forest resilience, it becomes imperative to delve into the adaptive strategies of various plant species towards wildfires. In fire-prone ecosystems, numerous plant species have developed mechanisms to withstand and even thrive in the face of wildfires (Fernandez-Guisuraga et al., 2021; Huerta et al., 2022; Pausas & Vallejo, 1999; Pausas et al., 2008). These strategies encompass serotiny, where seeds remain enclosed in cones or fruits until stimulated by fire, robust bark or specialized tissues that shield the plant from fire-related harm, and the capacity to regenerate through subterranean structures like bulbs or rhizomes (Huerta et al., 2022; Pausas & Vallejo, 1999; Pausas et al., 2008). Such fire adaptive measures play a pivotal role in the recovery post-fire and the rejuvenation of ecosystems, thereby bolstering the overall resilience of forests (Fernandez-Guisuraga et al., 2021; Huerta et al., 2022). Particularly in Mediterranean ecosystems, species display remarkable adaptations to fire, showcasing their resilience in the face of such disturbances (Balao et al., 2018; Rundel et al., 2018). Nevertheless, the efficacy of these adaptations can fluctuate depending on variables such as the intensity and frequency of fires (Keeley et al., 2011a). It is crucial to acknowledge the nuanced interplay of these factors in shaping the resilience of forest ecosystems.
Changes in climate and land use on the one hand and extreme wildfires on the other have influenced fire regimes, probably not only in the Mediterranean but also in northern European countries, affecting the intensity, severity, frequency and extent of fires (Moreno et al., 2014a; Moreno et al., 2014b; Pereira et al., 2016).
To enhance the resilience of ecosystems to wildfires, it is important to consider both the conditions before and after a fire event (Romero & Ganteaume, 2020). The pre-fire condition of the ecosystem should support a diverse, adaptive to fire regimes, and resilient vegetation community (Keeley et al., 2011b; Ne'eman et al., 2012). It may be necessary to establish new target conditions that align with changing fire regimes and environmental conditions (Romero & Ganteaume, 2020). Promoting natural regeneration of forests is crucial, but in cases where natural regeneration fails or is not adequate, techniques such as planting and seeding may be needed to enhance resilience and biodiversity (Lamont et al., 2019; Romero & Ganteaume, 2020).
However, the challenge of reducing the spread of wildfires in fire-prone forest stands without compromising the key characteristics of the ecosystem is crucial. Silvicultural approaches that mimic nature by restoring a more natural overstory and understory with indigenous tree species are suggested to minimize the severity of wildfires. However, in regions like the Mediterranean with drier weather conditions, this poses a major challenge. A number of publications (Carey & Schuman, 2003; Fernandes & Rigolot, 2007; Graham et al., 2004; Johnson et al., 2007; Peterson et al., 2005; Piqué, 2012; Piqué et al., 2011; Piqué et al., 2015; Serrada et al., 2008) provide managers with information on fuel reduction and the creation of fire resistant forest structures through proactive forest management (Kalapodis, 2009; Kalapodis, 2010). Over the years, a variety of forestry systems have been introduced outside the central and northern regions of Europe. In addition to central and northern Europe, a variety of forestry systems have been introduced in various regions of the Mediterranean as well, resulting in predominantly mixed compositions and a variety of benefits. These systems encompass a wide array of approaches, including mixed-stand silviculture, single-tree silviculture, irregular management, mixed regeneration, sporadic species valorization, and enhancement, among several others. Each of these methodologies brings its unique blend of benefits and challenges to the table, contributing to the rich tapestry of silvicultural practices in Mediterranean forestry.
The establishment of heterogeneous stands that integrate a diverse array of tree sizes in horizontal distribution and intricate vertical groupings has demonstrated benefits for wildlife habitat and forest resilience, as highlighted by various studies (Larson & Churchill, 2012; O’Hara, 2014; Ritter et al., 2020; Stephens et al., 2014). This strategy has the potential to augment biodiversity, offer diverse habitats for wildlife species, and bolster the overall resilience of the forest ecosystem against environmental stressors. Despite concerns surrounding fire hazards and crown base height often leading to simplified stand structures with uniform tree size distributions (Agee & Skinner, 2005), it is worth noting that a homogeneous structure may not always be essential. Instead, enhancing fire resistance can be achieved by diversifying tree sizes within groups and restricting the horizontal connectivity of the overstory or large tree component.
The implementation of a discontinuous overstory layer allows for the movement of heated air between tree crowns, reducing the likelihood of crown fires, as suggested by Ritter et al. (2020) and Tachajapong et al. (2009). This approach not only facilitates the development of complex vertical structures but also aids in mitigating crown fire hazards through a reduction in overstory density. The interplay between the vertical arrangement and horizontal spacing of trees within a group significantly impacts crown fire initiation. By clustering small- and medium-sized trees together while horizontally separating them from larger canopy trees, the risk of acting as a vertical fire ladder is minimized.
To further enhance our understanding, additional research is required to explore the implications of reduced canopy bulk density on crown fire transition, especially under varying wind conditions, as emphasized by Ritter et al. (2020).
The concerns surrounding fire hazards and crown base height often steer towards simplified stand structures with uniform tree size distributions. However, the necessity of maintaining a homogeneous structure is not absolute. Ritter et al. (2020) propose that enhancing fire resistance can be achieved by diversifying tree sizes within groups and restraining the horizontal connectivity of the overstory or large tree component. By introducing a discontinuous overstory layer, heated air can flow between tree crowns instead of through them, thereby reducing the likelihood of crown fires. This approach not only facilitates the development of intricate vertical structures but also aids in mitigating crown fire hazards through a reduction in overstory density.
The arrangement of trees vertically and their spacing horizontally within a group plays a pivotal role in influencing crown fire initiation. When small- and medium-sized trees are clustered together but horizontally separated from larger canopy trees, they lose the potential to serve as a vertical fire ladder. Diminishing horizontal continuity through a reduction in canopy bulk density at the group scale has shown to decrease overstory tree torching and potential mortality. Nonetheless, further research is essential to comprehend the implications of reduced canopy bulk density on crown fire transition, especially under varying wind conditions.
Two key approaches to integrated multifunctional forest management are: a) CTNFM (Larsen et al., 2022) and b) IFM (Myers, 2006). These approaches aim to diminish the negative effects of wildfires by reducing fuel hazards and unwanted ignitions, to enhance the positive effects of fire by controlling unwanted invasive plant species, and to improve ecological resilience by maintaining ecological processes and forest biodiversity at the landscape scale.
This policy brief provides an overview of these approaches and highlights their importance for achieving sustainable forest management objectives and services, i.e. the provision of multiple ecosystem services to society, ranging from provisioning (e.g. timber), regulating (e.g. climate change mitigation and biodiversity) to cultural (e.g. recreation) services.
Integrated Fire Management
IFM is founded on a fusion of prevention, suppression and recovery strategies, drawing insights from social, economic, cultural, and ecological evaluations, as outlined by Myers (2006). Going beyond the conventional focus on fire prevention and suppression, IFM interconnects the four crucial steps of emergency disaster management, encompassing prevention and preparedness, suppression, and recovery and adaptation. Positioned as a comprehensive approach, IFM serves as a framework for planning and operational systems designed to not only reduce the impact of fires but also optimize the benefits derived from them.
Similarly, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) European Forestry Matters (FAO, 2023), defines the IFM approach such as a growing trend, that countries and organizations are acknowledging the necessity to adopt a more strategic approach and reallocate investments towards risk reduction by embracing IFM. IFM integrates ecological, socio-economic, and technical facets of fire management in a holistic manner to achieve the overarching objective of fostering resilient and sustainable landscapes and safeguarding human livelihoods. Emphasizing the significance of wildfire prevention, IFM advocates for the utilization of fire as a management tool and underscores the pivotal role of communities as active participants in the entire process.
Moreover, in the same document it is also stated that FAO has established, since 2019 through its Fire Management Strategy, an Integrated Fire Management approach that forms the foundation of FAO's collaboration and support with its Members, UN agencies, and international and regional organizations (FAO, 2023). This systematic approach to fire management aims to comprehend the context, circumstances, and stakeholders involved, encompassing all activities related to managing fire-prone areas, including the deliberate use of fire to achieve land management objectives. It presents a comprehensive view of addressing fire challenges by considering biological, environmental, cultural, social, economic, and political dynamics.
FAO advocates for integrated fire management by focusing on addressing root causes and striving for long-term, sustainable solutions, encapsulated in the five elements known as the 5Rs: Review and analysis, Risk reduction, Readiness, Response, and Recovery. Leveraging its UN technical mandate on fire management, FAO collaborates with key partners through its Regional Offices, Regional Forestry Commissions, and Country Offices to promote and implement these integrated approaches to fire management effectively. In other words, IFM is a holistic approach that involves a combination of prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery strategies, thus covering the complete disaster management cycle, in order to manage wildfires with the use of fire (prescribed, suppression and traditional fire use practices). It emphasizes the integration of ecological, social, and economic factors in fire management planning. Related to the disaster management phases, its key components include as mentioned:
● Prevention phase: Implementing measures to reduce the risk of wildfires, such as fuel management, controlling of vulnerable to fire invasive species, creating firebreaks, restoring degraded ecosystems, public awareness campaigns, and regulatory controls.
● Preparedness phase: Developing plans and strategies, including robust early warning systems, utilizing fire detection technologies, conducting regular monitoring to identify and respond to wildfires at their early stages and involves training programs for firefighters and residents.
● Response phase: Efficient and effective firefighting operations, including mobilizing resources, establishing command centers, and coordinating with relevant agencies to suppress and control wildfires swiftly and efficiently with the use of fire.
● Post-Fire Restoration and adaptation Management: Implementing long- and short-term post-fire restoration measures to ensure ecosystem recovery and mitigate potential hazards resulting from wildfires, such as erosion, floods, landslides and invasive species.
Closer-to-Nature Forest Management
In 2023, the European Commission published a set of guidelines, a staff working document (European Commission, 2023), on the CTNFM approach to assist competent authorities, forest owners and managers and other key stakeholders in the implementation of a biodiversity-friendly and adaptive forest management practices under the prism of climate change and the Green Deal actions.
It is crucial to enhance the role of forests in the European Union's efforts to address biodiversity and climate change. This requires strengthening the ability of forests to provide a wide range of ecosystem services and support for these services. These services and supports include wood production, biodiversity conservation, wetland protection, water quality preservation, recreation opportunities, carbon sequestration, and carbon storage. To achieve this, it is necessary to bolster both the environmental aspect of sustainable forest management and the resilience of forest ecosystems. CTNFM (Larsen et al., 2022) practices can effectively address these environmental and climate-related needs in a sustainable way. Furthermore, managing forests according to closer-to-nature principles enhances their stability, resilience, and adaptive capacity, thereby reducing the significant and escalating socioeconomic risks associated with forest damage and losses caused by climate change.
CTNFM integrates technical, economic, and social considerations to safeguard ecosystem functioning and resilience. This approach recognizes forests as complex ecosystems with various organisms and abiotic elements, working together to support multiple functions. Instead of imposing uniformity, CTNFM relies on natural processes and avoids manipulating natural site conditions. It considers factors such as species interactions, environmental conditions, and climate to make decisions about managing forests. Diverse forest structure and composition are crucial for biodiversity, and forests should include different stages of development to provide habitats for a variety of species.
General principles
While forest management should consider the specific characteristics and context of each EU region, it is valuable to build upon the general principles of CTNFM, as outlined by Larsen et al. (2022). These principles include:
Embracing and allowing natural processes to unfold
Maintaining the diversity and complexity of forest structures and patterns
Connecting and integrating forest functions across various spatial scales
Utilizing a variety of silvicultural systems that align with the natural disturbance patterns of the region
Conducting timber harvesting activities with a minimal environmental footprint is crucial. Emphasis should be placed on considering what is preserved in the forest alongside what is harvested, thereby safeguarding habitats, forest soil, and microclimates.
By adhering to these principles, forest managers can promote the long-term health, biodiversity, and ecological integrity of forest landscapes, ensuring their sustainability for future generations.
Bauhus et al. (2013) echo the sentiments of Larsen et al. (2022) by emphasising the importance of using tree species appropriate to the site, promoting diverse mixed-age forest structures, avoiding clearcutting, prioritising stand stability, trusting natural processes and encouraging individual tree growth.
Main objectives
According to Larsen et al. (2022), CTNFM acts as a catalyst for biodiversity restoration, conservation, and enhancing forest resilience to climate change by focusing on two primary objectives:
1. Enhancing Structural Complexity: By increasing the structural complexity of forests, CTNFM aims to create diverse habitats. This diversity fosters ecosystem resilience and stability in the face of environmental changes.
2. Facilitating Natural Forest Dynamics: Promoting natural forest dynamics entails facilitating the evolutionary progression and regeneration of forests to emulate the various stages of ecological succession. This strategy enhances biodiversity, ecosystem vitality, and resilience to dynamic environmental factors, thereby fostering long-term sustainability.
By prioritizing these objectives, CTNFM not only supports biodiversity restoration and conservation efforts but also bolsters the adaptation of forest ecosystems in the face of climate change challenges.
The Closer-to-Nature management interventions and objectives
Implementing various interventions throughout the forest management cycle can significantly contribute to achieving the objectives of CTNFM. These interventions aim to:
1. Enhancing the structural complexity and natural dynamics of forests to promote biodiversity enhancement and ecosystem resilience.
2. Mitigating human-induced impacts on forest ecosystems helps maintain their ecological balance in different stages of ecological succession.
3. Protecting habitats and species within forests is crucial for biodiversity conservation.
4. Fostering landscape connectivity supports the movement and interaction of species across diverse habitats.
These interventions are mutually reinforcing and should be tailored to the specific context of each forest ecosystem. The key interventions and objectives of the CTNFM approach include:
Encouraging the natural regeneration of tree species.
Implementing harvesting practices that respect the ecological integrity of the forest.
Limiting unnecessary human interventions to maintain natural processes.
Protecting and enhancing the health of forest soils and water ecosystems.
Retaining deadwood structures to support biodiversity and nutrient cycling.
Designating specific areas for conservation and non-intervention.
Implementing measures to protect vulnerable or endangered species within the forest.
Balancing ungulate populations to align with the forest's ecological capacity.
Tailoring management strategies to suit the specific scale and characteristics of the forest landscape.
By integrating these interventions into forest management practices, CTNFM can effectively promote biodiversity conservation, ecosystem resilience, and sustainable forest stewardship.
Importance of landscape scale approach
When managing natural landscapes to improve wildfire safety and resilience, restore ecosystem structure and function, address the effects of fire exclusion, restore watersheds, and uphold Indigenous sovereignty, it is important to recognise that landscapes exist at different scales. It is not always a case of bigger is better, but rather of working at the appropriate scale to achieve desired objectives. A holistic approach is essential, recognising the interaction of natural, cultural, perceptual and aesthetic factors, and understanding how the landscape functions as a whole. By focusing on maximising multiple benefits or ecosystem services, management strategies can effectively enhance security and resilience while promoting the restoration of ecosystem structure. Recognising that edges and boundaries are transitional zones and important places, efforts can be made to improve connectivity and work across traditional boundaries. By integrating these principles, landscape management can achieve desired objectives and promote long-term sustainability (Ahern & Cole, 2012).
The Commission guidelines on land-based wildfire prevention (European Commission, 2021) offer a comprehensive overview of wildfire trends, existing concepts of wildfire prevention, and good practices in Europe. These guidelines focus on managing landscapes, forests, and woodlands with the aim of enhancing safety and resilience in the face of wildfires.
Implementing both integrated fire and CTNFM at a landscape scale is crucial to maximize their effectiveness. The landscape scale approach acknowledges that forests are interconnected systems and that management actions should take into account the broader ecological context. Additionally, landscape planning plays a significant role in preventing the spread and impact of wildfires. This involves implementing measures such as creating "mosaics" of land use, where different areas such as crop production, pasture, and forests are strategically arranged. Furthermore, creating a mosaic with high tree species diversity that are less susceptible to fire and fire spread, can also be beneficial.
On the other hand, increasing the frequency and extent of beneficial fire is crucial in fire-adapted ecosystems to mitigate the impacts of wildfires on both landscapes and communities. Apart from its role in wildfire mitigation, the landscape-scale use of beneficial fire is essential for enhancing ecosystem structure and functions, addressing the effects of fire exclusion over many years, restoring watersheds, and upholding Tribal sovereignty. The absence of naturally ignited and human-managed fire has already resulted in significant and long-term negative consequences, and the consequences of not taking action to reintroduce fire to the landscape are substantial (AFAC, 2015; USDA, 2023).
The benefits of adopting a landscape scale approach include:
● Enhanced fire prevention and suppression: By considering the landscape as a whole, it becomes possible to identify and implement measures that can effectively prevent and suppress wildfires, reducing their overall impact.
● Improved ecological resilience: Managing forests and landscapes at a larger scale allows for the preservation and restoration of ecological processes and habitats, promoting biodiversity and enhancing the resilience of ecosystems to withstand disturbances like wildfires.
● Enhanced connectivity and habitat conservation: A landscape scale approach enables the creation of ecological corridors and connectivity between different habitats, promoting the movement of species and facilitating their adaptation to changing conditions.
● Optimized resource allocation: By considering the landscape as a whole, resources can be allocated more efficiently and effectively, ensuring that management actions are targeted where they are most needed.
● Increased community engagement and awareness: A landscape scale approach encourages collaboration and engagement among stakeholders, including local communities, in wildfire prevention and management efforts. This can lead to increased awareness and understanding of the importance of sustainable forest management and fire prevention measures.
Overall, adopting a landscape scale approach to IFM and CTNFM maximizes their effectiveness in mitigating the impacts of wildfires and promoting sustainable forest ecosystems.
Benefits of Closer-to-Nature Forest Management and Integrated Fire Management
The benefits of IFM and CTNFM are as follows:
● Enhanced biodiversity conservation: CTNFM practices prioritize the preservation and restoration of natural forest ecosystems, promoting biodiversity conservation. This approach allows for the maintenance of diverse habitats, which support a wide range of plant and animal species.
● Improved ecosystem resilience: CTNFM focuses on maintaining the natural structure and composition of forests, which enhances their resilience to disturbances such as wildfires. By preserving a diverse mix of tree species and age classes, forests are better able to recover and adapt to changing conditions.
● Sustainable wood production: CTNFM aims to balance wood production with ecological considerations. By implementing sustainable harvesting practices, such as selective logging and natural regeneration, forests can provide a continuous supply of timber while minimizing negative impacts on the ecosystem.
● Effective fire management: IFM combines various strategies, including prevention, preparedness, suppression, and post-fire restoration (Myers, 2006). By integrating these approaches with CTNFM practices, the risk of wildfires can be reduced, and their impacts can be better managed. For example,
A. By implementing adaptive strategies that can respond quickly to changing environmental conditions. This may include adjusting the location of fuel breaks based on evolving wildfire patterns, or implementing buffer zones that can adapt to changing fuel accumulations.
B. Integrating Traditional Indigenous Practices: Embracing the cultural fires ignited by indigenous groups and local communities can enhance biodiversity and reduce fuel accumulation. Collaborating with indigenous communities to implement controlled burns based on traditional knowledge can contribute to effective wildfire risk reduction strategies.
C. Implementing Diverse Species Selection: Introducing a diverse array of fire-resilient native species while excluding highly flammable non-native species is crucial in high-risk areas. Prioritizing planting schemes that enhance landscape resilience and reduce flammability can significantly mitigate wildfire risks and promote ecosystem health.
D. Promoting Targeted Thinning Practices: Implementing vegetation thinning strategies can improve forest stand health and resilience to wildfires. Selective removal of vegetation helps reduce fuel loads and minimizes the spread of wildfires, while also safeguarding against secondary risks like pest outbreaks.
E. Embracing Traditional Grazing Practices: Promoting the use of traditional grazing methods can enhance landscape resilience and biodiversity. Grazing livestock in a controlled manner helps manage vegetation growth, reduce fuel loads, and promote ecosystem balance.
F. Implementing Crop Mosaics for Ecosystem Diversity: Supporting the establishment of crop mosaics, where different crops are interspersed within the landscape, can enhance habitat diversity and reduce the spread of wildfires. Diversifying agricultural landscapes through crop rotation and intercropping promotes soil health, water retention, and natural pest control.
● Carbon sequestration and storage: Forests managed according to closer-to-nature principles have a higher capacity for carbon sequestration. By maintaining healthy and diverse forest ecosystems, these practices contribute to mitigating climate change by absorbing and storing significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
● Improved water quality and watershed protection: CTNFM helps protect water quality by minimizing soil erosion, reducing sedimentation in water bodies, and preserving natural hydrological processes. This contributes to the overall health of aquatic ecosystems and ensures a sustainable supply of clean water.
● Enhanced recreational opportunities: CTNFM practices often prioritize the provision of recreational opportunities for visitors. This includes activities like hiking, camping, wildlife observation, and nature education, which promote human well-being and support local economies through nature-based tourism.
Through the amalgamation of CTNFM and IFM, these advantages can be optimized, culminating in more sustainable and resilient forest ecosystems that offer a plethora of environmental, social, and economic advantages.
Recommendations
To achieve the benefits of IFM and CTNFM at landscape scale, policy makers can consider the following strategic action plan:
● Strengthen collaboration and coordination: Policy makers should collaborate closely with forestry and fire management agencies, as well as other relevant stakeholders, to develop integrated approaches and strategies. This includes sharing information, resources, and expertise to effectively prevent and manage wildfires while implementing CTNFM practices.
● Develop and enforce regulations: Policy makers play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with regulations related to forest management and wildfire prevention. They should work to develop and enforce regulations that promote sustainable forest practices and fire prevention measures, including penalties for non-compliance.
● Risk-informed ecological management: Develop risk-informed ecological management strategies that allow for the controlled use of fire as a regulator of ecological processes at the landscape scale, while ensuring the safety of densely populated areas. This can be achieved by conducting comprehensive risk assessments, mapping fire-prone areas, establishing guidelines and protocols for controlled burns, prioritising the protection of human life and property, and investing in public education and awareness campaigns. This approach would balance the ecological benefits of controlled fires with the safety concerns of densely populated areas, promoting ecosystem health and resilience.
● Enhance monitoring and enforcement capacity: Policy makers should have the necessary resources and capacity to monitor and enforce compliance with forest management regulations. This includes investing in training, equipment, and personnel to effectively detect and respond to illegal activities such as illegal logging, encroachment, and arson.
● Promote public awareness and education: Policy makers can play a role in raising public awareness about the importance of CTNFM and IFM. This includes educational campaigns, community outreach programs, and partnerships with local communities and stakeholders.
● Support research and innovation: policy makers can contribute to the development and implementation of innovative technologies and practices for forest management and wildfire prevention. This includes supporting research initiatives, pilot projects, and the adoption of advanced tools such as remote sensing, drones, and data analytics to enhance monitoring and enforcement efforts.
● Foster international cooperation: Collaboration and knowledge exchange with other countries and international organizations can help policy makers learn from best practices and experiences in CTNFM and IFM. This can include participation in international forums, sharing of information and expertise, and joint initiatives to address transboundary challenges. This has also been pointed out by OECD (2023).
By implementing these strategic actions, policy makers can play a vital role in promoting and enforcing CTNFM and IFM, contributing to the sustainable management of forest ecosystems and the mitigation of wildfire risks.
The following preliminary policy recommendations for IFM and CTNFM involve acknowledging recent reports and initiatives addressing climate change adaptation in wildland fire management (AGIF, 2023; Casartelli & Mysiak, 2023; OECD, 2023). The Commission Staff Working Document - Guidelines on CTNFM (European Commission, 2023) offers initial policy suggestions for combining fire management with nature-centric approaches to tackle wildfires and foster resilience in forest and wildland-urban interface areas. These preliminary recommendations are specific activities for the implementation of the above-mentioned strategic action plan.
PRELIMINARY POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IFM AND CTNFM:
1. Enhancing integration of practices
Coordinate forest management techniques to achieve wildfire prevention, response, and restoration for landscape resilience.
✔ Implementing Diverse Species Selection: Introducing a diverse array of fire-resilient native species in mixture while excluding highly flammable non-native species is crucial in high-risk areas.
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✔ Restoring a more natural overstory and understory through various stages of forest natural succession, incorporating a blend of site-appropriate indigenous tree species, holds the potential to allow fire to fulfill its natural ecological role while mitigating the severity of wildfires. By mimicking natural forest processes and diversifying tree species composition, forest ecosystems can better withstand and adapt to fire disturbances. However, in regions characterized by Mediterranean climates, characterized by dry weather conditions and fluctuating fire regimes, the heightened risk of wildfires is a prominent concern. These conditions create a conducive environment for the increased frequency and intensity of wildfires, presenting significant challenges for forest management and ecosystem resilience in these regions. The arid climate creates a conducive environment for fire spread, posing a significant challenge, particularly in fire-prone forest areas. Balancing the restoration of natural forest dynamics with effective fire management strategies becomes crucial in such regions to reduce the incidence and severity of wildfires and enhance overall forest resilience. Employing a combination of proactive forest management practices, community involvement, and adaptive fire prevention measures is essential in tackling the unique challenges posed by fire-prone environments like those found in the Mediterranean region.
✔ .
Highlighting the importance of fostering diverse stand structures with a range of tree sizes and strategically managing horizontal connectivity can significantly decrease the risk of crown fires. It is imperative to proactively address horizontal continuity by reducing canopy bulk density at the group scale to mitigate the occurrence of overstory tree torching and potential mortality
✔ Promoting Targeted Thinning and pruning Practices: Implementing vegetation thinning and pruning strategies can improve forest stand health and resilience to wildfires.
✔ Embracing Traditional Grazing Practices: Promoting the use of traditional grazing methods can enhance landscape resilience and biodiversity.
2. Enhancing prescribed and suppression burning strategies for IFM
✔ Elevate the utilization of prescribed burning as a fuel treatment to mitigate wildfire hazards and promote conservation in forest and game management.
✔ Incorporate traditional indigenous prescribed fire practices to enrich biodiversity and diminish fuel sources.
✔ Expand the use of suppression fires to eradicate unburned vegetation between a control line and the advancing wildfire front, with the potential to alter the direction or intensity of the convective column.
✔ Reinforce the regulatory framework governing prescribed and agricultural fires to ensure efficient management practices.
3. Prioritizing ecosystem restoration
Prioritize ecosystem restoration efforts in areas affected by wildfires to ensure long-term forest health and biodiversity conservation.
✔ Advocating for Sustainable Forestry Practices: Encouraging sustainable forestry practices, including selective logging, reforestation, and agroforestry initiatives, contributes to healthy forest ecosystems.
✔ Considering Fire Adaptive Strategies: Various plant species in fire-prone ecosystems have evolved mechanisms like serotiny, thick bark, and resprouting abilities to thrive in periodic wildfires. These strategies aid in post-fire recovery and ecosystem regeneration, enhancing overall forest resilience. Factors like fire intensity and frequency can impact the success of these adaptations.
✔ Climate Changes and Fire Regimes: Changes in climate and land use have altered fire regimes in the Mediterranean Basin, affecting fire severity, frequency, and extent. High-frequency fires can lead to species loss and hinder ecosystem recovery. It is vital to consider pre- and post-fire ecosystem conditions and promote natural regeneration, along with planting and seeding techniques where needed.
✔ Implementing Crop Mosaics: Supporting the establishment of crop mosaics can enhance habitat diversity and reduce wildfire spread within landscapes.
✔ Reforestation with Native Species: Implementing reforestation programs with native and fire-resistant species restores ecosystem balance and resilience effectively.
4. Forging multi-agency collaboration and cohesive governance
✔ Cultivate synergy among diverse agencies, encompassing environmental, forestry, and emergency response sectors, to foster a harmonized strategy for forest and wildfire management.
✔ Initiate collective training drills to bolster interagency coordination in prevention, response and recovery to wildfire occurrences.
5. Enhancing community engagement
✔ Strengthen community engagement for successful forest and wildfire management.
✔ Involve local communities in decision-making processes related to integrated fire and closer- to-nature forest management.
6. Promoting education and training
✔ Provide comprehensive training programs on forest and fire management approaches for landowners, forest managers and communities.
✔ Educate individuals on fire behavior, fuel dynamics, and proper burning techniques for proactive wildfire prevention and restoration.
✔ Launch public awareness campaigns to educate communities on the importance of wildfire prevention, response and sustainable forest management practices.
✔ Provide educational resources on fire safety, evacuation procedures, and community resilience building.
7. Enhancing Regulatory Frameworks
✔ Strengthening national and subnational laws governing the use of prescribed and agricultural fires is crucial.
✔ Implementing clear guidelines on when and how to conduct controlled fires, along with stringent enforcement mechanisms, can mitigate the risk of wildfires escalating due to improperly managed burns.
✔ Promote standardization for natural systems that increase forest and community resistance and resilience to disturbances verifying the application of CTNFM and integrated forest management, either by using existing well-established directives and official standards (e.g. FSC, PEFC) or by creating new ones.
✔ Promote the utilization of the above mentioned standards to develop certification schemes, so that the application of CTNFM and integrated forest management could benefit from an EU quality label.
Discussion
Integrating fire management with CTNFM stands out as a pivotal tactic in fortifying forest resilience amidst escalating environmental challenges like wildfires exacerbated by climate change and biodiversity depletion. The crucial necessity for a landscape-scale strategy is apparent, underscoring the interdependence of forest ecosystems within the wider ecological framework. By intertwining IFM techniques with silvicultural approaches that emulate natural forest dynamics (by adopting a CTNFM methodology), policymakers can adeptly diminish wildfire repercussions while nurturing ecosystem vitality and biodiversity.
The adaptive strategies of plant species in fire-prone ecosystems play a fundamental role in post-fire recovery and ecosystem regeneration. Grasping these mechanisms is essential for tailoring management practices to bolster forest resilience in the face of changing fire regimes influenced by climate variability and human activities. For example, areas with a Mediterranean climate type, teeming with diverse fire-adapted species, illustrate the complex relationship between ecosystem dynamics and fire resilience.
Embracing a comprehensive integrated multifunctional forest management approach (CTNFM) that encompasses fire prevention, ecological resilience, habitat conservation, and resource stewardship highlights the multifaceted nature of tackling environmental challenges. By promoting collaboration among stakeholders and leveraging research and innovation, policymakers can navigate the complexities of forest management to achieve long-term sustainability and resilience. It is crucial to strike a balance between ecological benefits and human safety, emphasizing the importance of risk-informed ecological management in wildfire-prone landscapes.
The discussion on IFM and CTNFM practices provides a foundation for fostering resilient forest ecosystems capable of weathering disruptions and supporting biodiversity conservation. Moving forward, continued efforts in policy development, enforcement, and community engagement are vital to ensure the successful implementation of these strategies. By embracing a landscape-scale approach and amalgamating varied interventions, like advocating for natural regeneration, reducing human-induced stressors, and enhancing landscape connectivity, can guide policymakers towards a more sustainable and resilient forest ecosystem.
Conclusion
CTNFM refers to a forest management approach that seeks to mimic natural processes and maintain or enhance the ecological integrity of the forest ecosystem (Larsen et al., 2022). However, the management attitudes of the main proponents of CTNFM lead to an emphasis on stability, productivity, diversity and continuity of forest conditions, resulting in attempts to integrate multiple forest management objectives at small spatial scales, ideally within individual forest stands (Bauhus et al., 2013). In other words, it involves practices such as selective logging, maintaining a diverse range of tree species, and allowing natural regeneration to occur. This approach aims to create resilient forests that are better able to withstand disturbances, including wildfires.
In addition, IFM focuses on mitigating wildfire risk and related impacts by adapting to coexist with fire (Myers, 2006). It involves a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery measures. IFM recognizes that wildfires are a natural part of many ecosystems but aims to minimize the negative impacts by promoting proactive measures and effective firefighting strategies by utilizing fire.
The connection between these two concepts resides in their mutual objective of promoting forest vitality, resilience, and resistance. CTNFM practices, such as maintaining diverse and healthy forests, can contribute to reducing the risk and severity of wildfires. By creating more resilient forests, there is a decreased likelihood of wildfires spreading rapidly and causing extensive damage. Both concepts are closely related and aim to address the management of forests in a holistic and sustainable manner.
Additionally, IFM can support CTNFM by implementing measures to prevent and mitigate the negative impacts of wildfires. This may include prescribed burning, creating fire breaks, and implementing early warning systems. By effectively managing wildfires, the ecological integrity and long-term sustainability of forests can be better maintained.
Engaging in proactive planning and mitigation actions prior to a wildfire can lead to substantial reductions in impacts and costs during the pre- and post-fire period. This end-front work also sets the stage for a more effective response before the fire, resulting in diminished post-fire consequences and a streamlined process for providing technical support and other necessary resources.
Forest fires can serve as a crucial ecological tool for biodiversity conservation in certain forest ecosystems. However, it is imperative to manage forest fires carefully and adopt an integrated approach, including the implementation of prescribed burning where appropriate. Southern European forest ecosystems rely heavily on a thorough comprehension of species' fire ecology and the precise impacts of fire on forest structure, soil composition, and regeneration processes to effectively adapt to fire disturbances. Prescribed burning is increasingly acknowledged and employed in these ecosystems, particularly for purposes like pasture regeneration. Nevertheless, the deliberate use of wildfire as a regulator of ecological processes at the landscape scale is currently discouraged in southern Europe due to risk-averse policies in densely populated areas. Striking a balance between the ecological benefits of forest fires and the safety of human settlements is crucial. By comprehending the ecological dynamics and effects of fire in different forest ecosystems, management strategies can be developed to mitigate risks, enhance biodiversity, and maintain the overall health and resilience of the landscape.
Last but not least, the harmonious integration of IFM and closer-to-nature forest practices at the landscape scale holds promise for enhancing forest resilience, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable ecosystem management. The insights gleaned from this discussion serve as a guiding light for policymakers and stakeholders in navigating the complexities of forest management and fostering a more sustainable future for forest ecosystems.
Ethics and consent
Ethical approval and consent were not required.
Data availability
No data are associated with this article.
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