Impact of Fire History on the Structure of a Temperate Forest in Northern Mexico

Understanding the ecological role of fire in forests is essential for proper management and conservation programs. The objectives this study were: (1) to reconstruct history fires a temperate forest Sierra Madre Occidental; (2) interpret impacts climate on structure. Sixty tree cross-sections with scars were analyzed, descriptive statistics generated. Additionally, growth cores ages trees different diameter categories calculated. synchrony between establishment was determined, precipitation Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI) values correlated number established per year. presence 137 which allowed reconstruction 41 events over period 1855–2019; however, only 1940–2015 used compare recruitment, as detected period. mean interval (MFI) 2.28 years general, 12.17 extensive fires. As regards vegetation, continuous recruitment pattern observed, typical frequent low-intensity regime, although peak regeneration occurred after correlation analysis showed that year influenced by wet conditions December previous dry September October This finding demonstrates historical influence structure current stand area. Therefore, present highlights importance including programs, considering natural regime species ecosystem are already adapted.