| The objectives of this study were to assess the affects of wildfire and two prescribed fires on forest floor and soil nutrient status. Wildfire and prescribed fire resulted in significant reductions in forest floor C, N, S, and P. In most cases, soil extractable-P was not affected, however SO4 2- significantly increased one year following wildfire and prescribed fire. Contrary to most fire research, soil pH was overall unchanged by wildfire and prescribed fire, inorganic-P flux was not significantly influenced by fire at any site. Significant correlations between soil extractable-P and SO42- with both litter and soil Ca:C ratios (inferred indices of fire intensity) were inconsistent and site specific. Foliar analysis following prescribed fire suggests that P and S were non-limiting. Overall results suggest minimal wildfire and prescribed fire induced watershed impacts from soil P; however further research is needed to assess potential impacts from soil SO42- increases. |
