Sediment delivery to streams can be highly episodic as a result of the influence of highmagnitude, low-frequency disturbance events such as major storms or wildfires. Fires are catalysts for erosion and sediment transport in many landscapes, and a large portion of the total long-term erosion can be associated with short periods after fires. Intense fires result in loss of ground cover and reductions in infiltration rates due to ash or fine sediment, enhancing runoff and surface erosion. Landslides and debris flows in burned areas can also enhance sediment supply. Another aspect of sediment delivery after fires is the transport of ash into streams, which can have major impacts on water quality and aquatic communities.
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