Fire-dependent ecosystems can be defined as those in which composition, structure, and function changes when fire is removed. In the northern Lake States, a number of fire-dependent ecosystems can be found, both upland and wetland. Wildlife species whose regional distribution and abundance were historically (or currently) highly associated with fire-dependent ecosystem types can themselves be considered fire-dependent as ecosystem patterns associated with their habitats were historically provided by the ecological process that is fire. However, our current lack of understanding of the role fire plays in providing habitat for a suite of species limits our management efficacy.
The Lake States Fire Science Consortium (LSFSC), funded by the Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP), is a network of fire managers and scientists interested in the fire-dependent ecosystems found in the mostly forested northern tier of the Lake States region (http://www.lakestatesfiresci.net/). To enhance our existing understanding of disturbances, vegetation, and wildlife and the integration of this knowledge into the management of northern Lake States ecosystems, we are initiating an information exchange. As the first step in this process we used literature and breeding distribution maps to identify species we considered to be fire-dependent. Our primary focus was on extant species and those species whose current or past geographic distribution and abundance were highly associated with fire- dependent ecosystems. However, we ultimately included extirpated species in this work due to the chance for reintroductions, and included a few introduced species as well. Species considered to be generalists were not included. For each species, the binomial, general ecosystem type used by the species, and conservation status in Manitoba, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ontario, and Wisconsin was identified. We now request expert opinion and feedback on this list of species. Those interested in providing feedback should request the file from Greg Corace at Seney NWR: [email protected]. Comments and suggestions are welcome at any time, but the next steps in the process will begin by 1 March 2014. R. Gregory Corace, III and Dawn S. Marsh U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Seney National Wildlife Refuge, 1674 Refuge Entrance Road, Seney, MI 49883, Phone: 906.586.9851x14, E-mail: [email protected] Lindsey M. Shartell Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, 1201 East Highway 2, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, E-mail: [email protected]
