Prescribed Fire Resources

Fire has always been an integral part of the health of Oregon’s ecosystems. Native Americans have long participated in the practice of “cultural burning” to improve wildlife habitat, improve forest health, and reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire.

Fire alters landscapes, plant communities, animal habitat, and even water and soil. Fire can sometimes be a force for good, boosting species diversity and ecological resilience. Examine how fire suppression and climate change are altering the ecological effects of fire.

Fire behavior is a function of available fuel, site topography and weather. People who practice prescribed burning take all these elements into account to achieve the objectives of the burn.

Smoke is important to consider when planning a prescribed burn. Besides reducing visibility, smoke can affect firefighters and public health and safety.

Prescribed burning practitioners follow a detailed burn plan that spells out objectives and ways to achieve them safety. Burn plans cover equipment, site preparation, smoke management, contingencies, communication and cleanup.

On the day of the burn, prescribed fire managers rely on an in-depth burn plan. The burn plan includes the objectives of the burn and the steps needed to achieve them. Before putting fire on the ground, a few more steps are needed to ensure that everything is in place and everyone is informed.

Weather affects nearly every aspect of a prescribed burn. Weather is a matter of safety for those staffing the burn and the public. Understanding fire weather helps practitioners manage smoke and comply with regulations.

Prescribed fire focuses on addressing the overabundance of fuels on the ground. Fuels can include grass, leaf litter, sticks, shrubs and trees. Along with weather and topography, fuel is one of the key factors.

The right ignition technique will ensure that a prescribed fire meets objectives. Fuel, weather conditions, resources and topography are all part of the ignition plan. The plan calls for specific techniques, firing patterns and tools.

Prescribed fires are used to achieve specific goals. Monitoring and evaluation ensure that the burn plan is followed and its goals are met.

Prescribed fire, like any fire, entails risk. To stay safe, wear Personal Protective Equipment, take steps to prevent heat exhaustion, use the right tools and follow the burn plan. Here are more tips to keep you safe on the ground.