Three Parks Savanna Fire-effects Plot Network: Plot-based Fire Severity Associations with Season and Frequency, Kakadu, Litchfield and Nitmiluk National Parks, Northern Territory, Australia, 1994–2013

This data package is a derivative product consisting of a subset of already published data fire severity data packages (from Dr Jeremey Russell-Smith), combined with data indicating time since last fire (from Brett Murphy). These data are used to produce the graphs and conclusions found on pages 355 & 356 of Lindenmayer et. al 2014, Biodiversity and Environmental Change: Monitoring Challenges and Directions. A total of 220 permanent monitoring plots (40 m x 20 m) were established across three parks (Kakadu, Litchfield and Nitmiluk) in 1994-1995 to monitor biotic change. Of these, 132 plots are located in Kakadu, 41 plots are located in Litchfield, and 47 are located in Nitmiluk. These sample a variety of landform and vegetation type /habitat conditions. A substantial proportion of plots were positioned deliberately at sites likely to reveal environmental dynamics, especially at ecotones and in patches of fire-sensitive vegetation. For example stands of Callitris, sandstone heaths. As well, many plots are located at, or in the near vicinity of, intensively managed sites such as camp-grounds and other tourist destinations. A synopsis of related data packages which have been collected as part of the Three Park Savanna Fire-effects Plot Network’s full program is provided at http://www.ltern.org.au/index.php/ltern-plot-networks/three-parks-savanna