The condition and restoration of the forest ecosystems of the Baikal Nature Reserve after a major fire in 2015 were investigated. It was revealed that after the fire, the growth of birch and aspen young trees prevailed, and a transformation in the composition of the stand was noted. Fires had a significant impact on the soil cover, causing darkening and compaction of the upper layer, destruction of the soil structure, which led to a decrease in water and air permeability, as well as a reduction in the humus horizon. The physico-chemical properties of soils have undergone the following changes: a high variability in the total carbon and nitrogen content was noted, pH changed from acidic to neutral depending on depth and local factors, reflecting the heterogeneity of pyrogenic effects. It was determined that the reduced emission of carbon dioxide from soils was associated with the effects of fires and dry periods, resulting in a decrease in soil biological activity. The threat of new large fires is growing due to climate change and weak preventive measures. The study highlighted the importance of an integrated approach to the conservation of the region’s nature in the context of modern environmental challenges.
E. O. Chimitdorzhieva (Wed,) studied this question.