I have always been a strong advocate of leaving things alone and letting nature take it's course but I must admit I can see the argument for fire.
1)wild fires are estingished quickly
2)controlled burns compensate for this, safely, with less fauna death.
3)the down side is that controlled burns are not as hot and not as frequent.
I don't know how much the heat is a factor, as long as the pitch pine cones open, it should be hot enough. I think in most cases it is. Maybe you know otherwise Bob.
As for clear cutting...i don't know, seems like an excuse for the state to make $ in issuing permits to loggers.
I am more than happy to consider differing opinions on the matter.
Jeff