RESEARCHERS have returned to Peachester State Forest to collect environmental samples following a planned burn, as part of a decades-long study aimed at better understanding how fire regimes shape and support ecosystems.
The long-running research program, which began in 1969, is Queensland’s longest continuous fire regime study, giving scientists a rare opportunity to analyse 55 years of ecological data.
Decades of monitoring in Peachester have shown that planned burns can have significant environmental benefits when conducted at intervals tailored to specific ecosystems.
Following a low-intensity planned burn in December, researchers are now collecting soil, leaf litter and insect samples to assess chemical and biological changes across the forest floor.
Analysis of the extensive data set has revealed that varying the frequency of planned burns influences carbon storage, nutrient ratios, nutrient cycling and the diversity of associated microbial and invertebrate communities.
The research is being led by Griffith University and Australian Rivers Institute Distinguished Professor Chengrong Chen, alongside Dr Bruce Lan, with support from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS).
As part of the study, dedicated forest plots are burned approximately every two to four years, while some areas have remained unburned since the project began more than five decades ago.
Professor Chen said the research was delivering important insights into how fire frequency affects soil health and biodiversity.
“This study is allowing researchers to understand the long-term benefits of repeated fire frequency on ecosystem diversity and function, soil carbon and nutrient stocks, and overall soil health,” Prof Chen said.
QPWS Maleny Senior Ranger, Donna Haslam, said the study provided critical, science-based guidance for land managers.
“Research at Peachester gives us clear evidence about the most effective timing for planned burns in similar environments, helping us protect biodiversity while reducing bushfire risk,” she said.