Returning fire to Ozark Highland forest ecosystems: Effects on advance regeneration

One fire significantly altered the height distribution of advance regeneration, concentrating most of the stems in the smallest height class (<1 m tall). Recovery of height was slow even 4 years after a burn due to the suppression of regeneration by the overstory canopy that averaged 18 m2/ha in basal area (69% stocking). Overall, repeated burning in the dormant season reduces understory structure and favors oak advance regeneration. Survival models can be used to plan for woodland and savanna restoration.