In glaciated regions in the Midwest, ecologists have referred to morainic forest ecosystems as rich “islands” surrounded by lower elevation and well drained sandy outwash terrain.  These morainic islands offered moderately well drained and heavier textured soils that generated northern or southern mesic forests in pre-colonial times.  A key attribute of these relatively stable remnant forests is comparatively low fire periodicity.  Join forest ecologist Robert Ayotte for an overview of these – now remnant – landscape ecosystems.  We’ll broach the question as to whether or not prescribed fire should be applied in these diverse and sensitive habitats.