Without fire, hardwoods and other pines encroach on the longleaf forest. The thick bark of mature trees make longleaf pine fire resistant. The astounding variety of wildlife of the Okefenokee Ecosystem depend on the longleaf pine forests. They too have adapted to periodic fires. For example, the gopher tortoise digs deep holes underground where it and many other creatures hide through fires.
Fires are also part of good forestry management in the region.
It is common for foresters to do periodic burns in pine forests. Wetlands and Fires Learn how wetlands and fires interact. All rights reserved.