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

June 3, 2026 | Noon-1 p.m. CT

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.

Join on June 3 at Noon

PRESENTER

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.