Wildland fires in Lithuania

Abstract

Fire is a natural element of the ecosystems, fundamental to the existence of the majority of the earth biomes as we know it today. Boreal ecosystems are frequently affected by fire. It is considered an important evolutionary force. The aim of this chapter is to do a bibliographic review about the impacts of wildfires in Lithuania. Wildfires are not frequent and severe, comparing to European southern countries. Affect especially pine plantations, do not have long-therm impacts in the ecosystems, the vegetation normally recover fast and increase the biodiversity of the burned areas. Some negative aspects were highlighted in some publications regarding air pollution, increase of heavy metals concentration in river waters and health problems. Lithuanians do not have a positive view about fire, despite the fact that they do not fell fire as an important threat. However, wildfires have an important impact in forest plantations and a large sum of money is invested in the reforestation of burned areas. This is because wood exploitation industry contributes importantly to Lithuanian economy and is a strong interest group.