Hardwood Forest - Landscapes, Fires, and Forests

Before European settlement, fire strongly controlled the distribution of forest and prairie in Illinois. Prairie typically occurred on level, unbroken areas where fires spread rapidly. Woodlands were more common along streams and in isolated areas protected by the landscape from fire.

Historically, fire helped determine the species of plants and animals in the forests of Illinois. This hardwood forest occurs on a gently rolling landscape, carved by rivers and streams. The rolling terrain, rivers, and streams act as natural firebreaks and protect the area from wind and wildfire. Sugar maple and American beech cannot survive hot fires. They grow best in protected areas like this one.

Oak and hickory species are resistant to all but the hottest fires. They can survive in areas that frequently burn.