Currently 20 acres have been treated.
Sequoias are a fire reliant species.
Continued burning is required to maintain a healthy forest ecosystem. Fire produces the optimum conditions for Giant Sequoia regeneration. Fire not only removes the accumulated layers of dead woody debris exposing nutrient rich mineral soil, but is needed to dry the cones and allow the seeds to shed. In addition, by reducing the number of trees and undergrowth, wildfire opens up the forest canopy and reduces shade-tolerant competition.
Source: Yosemite Fire and Aviation
For more information: Yosemite National Park Planning a Prescribed Fire in the Mariposa Grove Beginning November 4th
