معرفی
Dr. Carissa Wonkka is an Assistant Professor at the University of Florida’s West Florida Research and Education Center, part of the UF/IFAS system. Her research focuses on fire ecology, rangeland management, and the socio-ecological dynamics of wildfire risks. She investigates how fire regimes, invasive species, and human land-use practices impact ecosystems, particularly in semi-arid grasslands and pine savannas.
Wonkka’s work bridges ecological science and applied management, addressing challenges like woody plant encroachment, wildfire resilience, and community perceptions of prescribed fire. Her studies span topics such as fire refugia dynamics, post-fire vegetation recovery, and the impacts of energy development on wildlife populations. She collaborates with stakeholders to translate research into actionable strategies for mitigating fire risks and promoting sustainable land management.
Key research themes include:
- Wildfire dynamics in human-impacted landscapes
- Fire effects on plant communities and wildlife
- Social and legal barriers to prescribed burning
- Climate change adaptation in fire-prone ecosystems
Her recent publications highlight rising wildfire activity in the eastern U.S., the role of woody vegetation in fire risk, and rancher perceptions of fire practices. She actively contributes to interdisciplinary initiatives like the Dunn Ranch Academy, fostering fire literacy through hands-on training.
