Prioritizing Areas for Post-Fire Restoration in Greece Using Mixed-Methods Spatial Analysis

The frequency and severity of wildfires are projected to increase in the Mediterranean region. Greece currently lacks a developed standardized system for identifying and prioritizing burnt areas in relation to their restoration needs. Prioritization of areas for post-fire restoration efforts using geographic information system (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) can be useful in decision-making. However, this approach is often insufficient in effectively integrating perspectives from multiple stakeholders and socio-ecological criteria. Combining qualitative methods such as interviews with GIS and RS methods can enhance the understanding of nuances in a local context. 

We designed an approach to identify high-priority areas for post-fire restoration. The identification was based on interviews with stakeholders and the application of GIS and RS. We conducted 15 interviews with stakeholders working on post-fire issues and selected criteria for the prioritization analysis based on their views. The expert interviews revealed perceptions regarding the necessity of vegetation restoration and rehabilitation efforts and helped to identify the key characteristics respondents consider essential for prioritizing burnt areas for restoration. These insights established an analysis using GIS and RS to select areas based on the identified characteristics. 

We selected the areas for restoration based on fire history, slope, and designation as part of the protected areas. The outcomes of the analysis helped to highlight three areas that potentially need special attention. We propose a prioritization system that considers the natural regeneration potential of the Mediterranean and on-the-ground socio-ecological limitations, and can help government agencies, local foresters, private consultancies, and NGOs plan restoration actions and optimize the effectiveness of restoration programs in Greece.