Prescribed Burning for Brushland Management: The South Texas Example

By Charles J. Scifres and Wayne T. Hamilton

Book Overview

This handy book provides up-to-date information on the uses of fire for managing thorn woodlands similar to those in South Texas and northern Mexico. South Texas represents the northern portion of a unique biotic province-the Tamaulipan thorn woodland. This vegetation, a transitional type linking desert scrub to subtropical vegetation to the south and east, is analogous to vegetation existing in South America, Africa, and Australia. It is safely assumed that results from experiences with prescribed burning can be extrapolated to these vegetation types. Prescribed Burning for Brushland Management first describes the ecological setting in South Texas. The authors then present the benchmark principles related to fire behavior and mode of action, in order to understand vegetation responses to burning and in order to predict these responses. Finally, methods of fire application and control are discussed. Actual results from prescribed burning are explained in terms of vegetation, livestock, and wildlife responses. Final discussions center on the role of prescribed burning in range management systems and economic assessment. In all cases, the writing goes beyond simply presenting data; the authors use interpretive discussions that incorporate specific examples and case studies. This book will be of use to students, teachers, and managers interested in natural resource management, as well as wildland enthusiasts.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0890965390
• ISBN13: 9780890965399
• Release Date: February 1993
• Publisher: Texas A&M University Press
• Length: 264 Pages
• Weight: 0.75 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.5" x 0.8" x 6.5"