The effects of fire on biological soil crusts and their subsequent recovery in pinyon-juniper

Researchers:	Dr. Steven Warren, CEMML, Colorado State University, 970-491-7478, sdwarren@cemml.colostate.edu Dr. Paul Kugrens, Department of Biology, Colorado State University, 970-491-7551, paul.kugrens@colostate.edu Dr. Larry St.Clair, Director, Monte L. Bean Museum, Brigham Young University, 801-422-6211, Larry_StClair@byu.edu
Study Design and Objectives:	The objective of this study is to determine the effects of prescribed burning in pinyon-juniper woodlands on the biological soil crusts found in the understory and interspaces. Researchers are evaluating biological soil crust cover, cyanobacterial biomass, cyanobacterial density and nitrogen fixation. Plots are placed under juniper trees, under sagebrush and in the interspaces.
Study Dates:	September 2003 to September 2007
SageSTEP Study Plots:	Onaqui sage/woodland
Additional information:	For additional information, please contact the researchers directly.