Mixed conifer forests in the Sierra San Pedro de Mártir (SSPM)
are broadly similar to some mixed conifer forests
in California but studies of fire-scar dendrochronology in California and SSPM demonstrate
they have a different fire history. In California,
fires historical burned every 5-15 years until about 1900 when fire suppression was
implemented while frequent fire continued at least until
1950 in the SSPM. More recent and continuous interactions between fire and vegetation in the
SSPM has created forest conditions distinct from
those in current California forests. Forest conditions created by more frequent fire inthe
SSPM are thought to broadly represent a historical
reference forCalifornia mixed conifer forests. This project uses visually captured forest
conditions at locations with field data to
communicate conditions in SSPM to managers, scientists, and other stakeholders using
web-based and phone-based (android) communication tools.
See Ishi Web-VR and iVR Experience, as examples of the products.
360° photography was taken at 4 feet and 27 feet above the forest floor on a tripod at
geo-located points that already have measurements of
forest structure. Imagery was processed, stitched, and then integrated with field data and
web. Phone-based communication tools were developed and deployed.
Figure: SSPM study locations.