How 2024 fires shaped forage recovery

By Scout Nelson

In 2024, wildfires affected over 110,000 acres across western regions, with the Ray/Tioga fires alone burning nearly 89,000 acres of rangeland, cropland, and hay land. These fires were the most severe since the 1999 Halloween fire, which impacted more than 70,000 acres, primarily grazing lands.

Challenges of Drought and Fire

The combination of extreme drought and widespread fires has created significant challenges for forage production. Experts note that drought has weakened the growth of grasses, and the fires have compounded these effects, potentially reducing forage production by 40-60% in 2025. Cool-season grasses, which dominate many regions, are particularly affected, while some warm-season grasses may see improved growth. 

Woody species, including buckbrush and willows, may regrow through suckering, but conifers and other fire-sensitive trees are unlikely to recover. Researchers emphasize that these short-term losses can be mitigated with proper land management.

Impact on Forage and Plant Communities

Fires affect plant species differently. Cool-season grasses, and some flowering plants may struggle, while native warm-season grasses often recover well. For invasive grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass, fire can significantly reduce their presence. However, exposed soil and reduced vegetation height leave the land vulnerable to erosion until regrowth begins.

Grazing Recommendations for 2025

To aid recovery, experts recommend deferring grazing until mid-summer and reducing stocking rates by 50-70% in areas with continued dry conditions. They caution against reseeding native rangelands, as natural regrowth is expected to restore diversity and forage quality over time.

Long-term Effects

Despite short-term setbacks, wildfires often bring positive changes to plant communities. The removal of invasive grasses and the regeneration of native species can enhance biodiversity and resilience against future droughts and fires.

With proper grazing management and favorable weather, the affected lands are expected to recover in the coming years, providing renewed opportunities for sustainable use.

Photo Credit: north-dakota-state-university