2004 Harold Biswell Award

DR. STEPHEN F. ARNO

Dr. Arno received his B.S. in Forestry from Washington State University and earned his Masters and Doctorate in Plant Science from the University of Montana.

Dr. Arno served as a Research Plant Ecologist with the USDA Forest Service's Research and Development Branch from 1970 to 1999. The latter two decades of his career were spent as a Fire Ecologist on the Fire Effects Project at the Missoula Fire Sciences Lab.

In the mid-1970's, Dr. Arno began pioneering research on fire history that resulted in major advances in knowledge of the role of fire in the northern Rocky Mountains. He developed methods, trained managers in dedrochornological techniques, and gained international recognition for his contributions in fire history and the role of fire in vegetation dynamics. During his 29 year career he publishe approximately 60 papers on the ecology, fire history, restoration, and management of northern Rocky Mountain ecosystems.

Through his published research and field trips, he gained recognition among both scholars and managers as a great advocate for restoration of fire adapted ecosystems. Dr. Arno's work has influenced many scientists, managers, and practitioners in the field of fire history.