Summary
Important methodological factors which should be considered when attempting to measure and interpret the effects of hot slash fires on the properties of forest surface soils are briefly discussed. Soil properties cannot be assumed to be similar, prior to cutting and burning of forest, on coupes located several kilometres apart in dissected terrain. In order to study the effects of forest treatment on soil properties, sites should either be closely adjacent or preferably measurements should be taken before and after treatment on the same experimental area.
It is argued that the conclusions reached by Elliset al. regarding the effects of regeneration burning on soil properties in southern Tasmania are unjustified because of the use of inappropriate experimental methods.
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References
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Raison, R.J. Effects of regeneration burning on the properties of forest soils in southern Tasmania: Comments on recent study by Elliset al. (1982). Plant Soil 74, 453–455 (1983). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02181362
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02181362