Gopher Frogs, Burrows, and Fire: Interactions in the Longleaf Pine Ecosystem

The study of the relationships and interactions between fire, living organisms, and the environment.

Upland pine communities are woodlands characterized by widely spaced longleaf pines with a sparse to moderate shrub layer, along with a dense, species-rich groundcover of grasses and herbs. Other plants commonly occurring in this community are turkey oak, bluejack oak, southern red oak, live oak, persimmon, gopher apple, and leadplant. Animal species include green treefrog, gopher tortoise, eastern fence lizard, red-bellied woodpecker, loggerhead shrike, cotton mouse, and fox squirrel.

"To serve, advise, and develop educational programs for Florida citizens in conjunction with county extension agents and other state, county, and local organizations interested in wildlife issues."
Programs are oriented toward the use, conservation, management, and appreciation of wildlife resources, and requests for such programs can be made through county Extension offices or directly with specialists.