Owens River Fire April 8, 2005

 
This fire appeared to be started by arson sometime in the mid afternoon of April 8, 2005. The fire started west of the river near the ponds, and spread quickly through the riverine vegetation, consisting mainly of dried bullrushes, sandbar willow (Salix exigua), and wild rose (Rosa sp.). 4-8-05
About 5 weeks later the riverine vegetation was vigorously sprouting. The river was also running at a very high stage and much of the riverine habitat was submerged. Click on photo for a larger version. 5-15-05

These photos showing the quick recovery of the vegetation were taken about 5 weeks later on.

The Rosa sprouts were about 1 foot high (25 cm).

Sandbar willow (Salix exigua) sprouts were taller (35cm)
The bullrush shoots were nearly a meter (3') tall.
Some bullrushes got scorched at the tips, but were not burned.
These Anemopsis (Yerba Mansa) plants also sprouted immediately after the fire.