Application of a Soil Quality Index to a Mediterranean Mountain with Post-Fire Treatments

In Mediterranean areas, fire has increased soil degradation and erosion. For this reason, the application of soil quality indices can help to determine soil recovery and degradation levels. By using a multiparameter soil quality index fitted to undisturbed forest soils, we can show the right information on soil functionality. In this study, the objectives were to evaluate soil functionality after suffering a fire, to subsequently treat with various soil treatments (wood mulching), and then check a soil quality index (SQI) to assess the soil quality recovery in burned Pinus nigra stands. For this purpose, a burned area was selected in the Cuenca Mountain range (Spain) under a Mediterranean climate. Experimental plots were established in the study area, with three slope gradients and applying three methods of covering soil using: (1) wood chips; (2) piles of branches; and (3) trunks of contour-felled logs. The experiment was conducted for 4 years. Results showed that the properties of soil were enhanced under wood chips and logs as a surface-covering material, and in a short time (less of 3 years). In consequence, the values of the SQI index were higher after applying these two treatments, thus reflecting the effectiveness of the SQI for monitoring post-fire recovery.