Three Parks Savanna Fire-effects Plot Network: Plot-based Fire Severity Monitoring, Northern Territory, Australia, 1994-2016

Abstract: This data package comprises fire severity scores from Kakadu, Litchfield and Nitmiluk from 1994 onwards. A total of 220 permanent monitoring plots (40 m x 20 m) were established across three parks (Kakadu, Litchfield and Nitmiluk National Parks) in 1994-1995 to monitor biotic change. Of these, 133 plots are located in Kakadu, 41 plots are located in Litchfield and 46 plots are located in Nitmuluk. 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 and sandstone heaths). In addition, 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 https://doi.org/10.25911/5c3c22985ac2b.

Sampling method: The 220 plots across the three National Parks (Kakadu, Litchfield and Nitmiluk) were established in 1995 in collaboration with the Park rangers to answers questions relating to fire management and park resources.

Study extent: 133 plots are located in Kakadu, 41 plots are located in Litchfield and 46 plots are located in Nitmuluk. Plots are located across the parks in a variety of habitats from lowland woodlands to rocky hillsides and ‘table top’ plateau. Occasional data is missing from years due to constraints in accessing sites.

Project funding: Between 2012 and 2018 this project was part of, and funded through the Long Term Ecological Research Network (LTERN) a facility within the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network (TERN) and supported by the Australian Government through the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy. This project has also received funding through Parks Australia, NT Parks & Wildlife Service, Tropical Savannas CRC, and Darwin Centre for Bushfires Research (Charles Darwin University).