Human Ecological InterFace

This project addresses an urgent, emerging research need through a collaboration between University of Georgia, The Jones Center at Ichauway and Tall Timbers. Prescribed fire is a method being expanded to reduce wildfire risk and, in certain settings, improve ecosystems. Longleaf pine forests, one of the most biologically diverse systems in North America, have declined to less than 5% of their historic range. Prescribed fire is a vital tool for their maintenance and restoration. However, with fire comes smoke which is harmful to human health.

The purpose of this work is to (1)  build an improved model of prescribed fire emissions and associated PM2.5 concentrations in the Southeast. Also, (2) we evaluate regional patterns of emissions and identify any disproportionate smoke exposure; and (3) forecast how these exposure risks could change under different fire management strategies and climate conditions. By filling critical knowledge gaps, this research can propose conservation practices that promote both ecological resilience and environmental equity for marginalized populations across the Southeast.