The Fire Ecology Program at Tall Timbers

By Kevin Robertson, Ph.D, Fire Ecologist

The goal of the Fire Ecology Program is to provide the public with applicable, science-based information on the role of fire in natural plant communities, with the aim of improving conservation land management. Research is conducted in collaboration with private land owners, universities, state and government agencies, and other not-for-profit organizations. Information is shared through publications, conferences and seminars, extension services to private and public landowners, conservation workshops, advisory committees, and public outreach activities. Research is supported by core funds, external grants, and private donations.

The Fire Ecology Program promotes the use of prescribed fire as an essential tool for managing natural ecosystems in the southern U.S. It works closely with regional Prescribed Fire Councils, state and federal government agencies, and other stakeholders to provide reliable information on the effects and benefits of responsible prescribed burning.

The full-time staff consists of Dr. Kevin Robertson (Fire Ecology Research Scientist) Jason Isbell (Fire Ecology Specialist) and Josh Picotte (GIS Fire Analyst).

Prescribed fire is a safe way to apply a natural process, ensure ecosystem health, and reduce wildfire risk.

Research Topics

• Effects of fire regimes on southern pine communities
• Estimation of fuel loads and fire behavior
• Fire effects on soil nutrients and carbon sequestration
• Monitoring wildland fire using remote sensing
• Landscape history of natural communities
• Role of fire in bottomland forests

Remote Sensing of Burn Severity

• Validating Burn Severity within Southeastern US Ecosystems

Outreach and Education

• Academic Affiliations
• Public Outreach
• Public Service
• Prescribed Fire Advocacy
• Robert K. Godfrey Herbarium
• Internships

Prescribed Fire Training Links

Florida Division of Forestry Prescribed Fire Certification (private citizens, agency)

Georgia Forestry Commission Prescribed Fire Certification (private citizens, agency)

Alabama Forestry Commission Prescribed Fire Certification (private citizens, agency)

The Nature Conservancy Fire Training Program (agency, other organizations)

Southern Regional Fire Training Center (agency)

National Prescribed Fire Training Center (agency)

National Wildfire Coordinating Group (agency)

Prescribed Fire Links

Florida Division of Forestry - Prescribed Fire

Georgia Forestry Commission - Prescribed Fire

A Guide to Prescribed Fire in Southern Pinelands