Assessing the Impact of High Intensity Fire on Old-Growth Giant Sequoias

About the Project

Giant sequoia can live millennia, surviving repeat fires and periods of drought. However, recent fire and drought conditions in the southern Sierra Nevada have stressed sequoia in some groves.
Mason, Bruce & Girard (MB&G) is working for a client to assess the condition of approximately 1,600 old growth giant sequoia in multiple groves on their lands. MB&G is also assessing fuels conditions within the groves to help the client determine if future treatments, including prescribed burning, may be needed.

What are we measuring? 

What we’re looking for

Conclusion

The giant sequoia is a fire adapted species historically thought to be near fire-proof due to its extremely thick bark. After years of historic drought and increasing fire intensities, these giants’ resiliency is being tested and this project aims to collect the data that will aid in a better understanding of the species limitations and what can be done to preserve them.