Linking Forest Form, Fire, and Function

Prescribed Fire for Forest Management Series

Linking Forest Form, Fire, and Function: A Critical Evaluation of the Role of Fire in Promoting Forest Resilience

Recorded June 3, 2026

Heterogeneous spatial patterns are central to forest function and resilience, yet old-growth forests, especially those that are dry and fire-adapted, are rare in the Lake States. This talk presents results from a Wisconsin study examining how silviculture and prescribed fire can restore forest structure, function, and reduce wildfire risk. Using old-growth red pine stands in Minnesota and Wisconsin as references, Dr. Meunier analyzed canopy characteristics and spatial tree patterns to guide management prescriptions. Results provide both a reference condition and practical framework for restoring and maintaining spatially complex red pine forests across the Lake States.

Watch Recorded Webinar

PRESENTER

Jed Meunier sitting on ground in front of a very large fire-scarred tree

Jed Meunier, Ph.D.

Ecologist and Research Scientist, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources – Division of Forestry

Jed is an ecologist whose work is focused on interactions of disturbance, climate, and forest structure. His background and interest reflect integrated approaches aimed at understanding mechanisms for ecosystem changes across scales through applied research. Jed has his MS in Wildlife Ecology (UW- Madison) and a Ph.D. in Ecology (Colorado State University) and is a researcher with the Wisconsin DNR.

MODERATOR

Leah Snavely

Technical Assistance Provider, Savanna Institute

Leah is a forester and Technical Assistance Provider with the Savanna Institute, working with farmers to design agroforestry systems in Minnesota. Much of her work is dedicated to writing plans for the management of fire-dependent oak systems on private lands. Before coming to the Savanna Institute, she worked as a forester for Yale Forests and a research assistant for the Northeast Forest Farmers Coalition. Leah holds a Master of Forestry and Master of Arts in Religion and Ecology from Yale University.

Additional Resources

Continuing Education

This webinar was approved for the following:

1.5 Society of American Foresters (SAF) Cat. 1 CFEs

SAF Cat. 1 CFEs are not available for those watching the recorded session.

1.0 SER Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP) CECs

SER CERP CECs are not available for those watching the recorded session.

1.0 Wisconsin DNR Cooperating Forester CEUs

Wisconsin Cooperating Foresters do not need to complete a quiz to claim continuing education units. For reporting purposes, please note the date viewed, sponsor, title, and hours. Prescribed Fire for Forest Management webinars are rated for qualifying continuing education hours on an hour-for-hour basis.

If you would like a Certificate of Completion for this webinar, please email the Wisconsin Forestry Center. Certificates are sent only by request.

Please contact wfc@uwsp.edu for more information.