Planning a Prescribed Burn

Burning Unit Map

Planning a Prescribed Fire

The first step to a successful prescribed burn is a stand-by-stand analysis of the forest lands. Determine the needs of each stand and what actions should be taken to meet these needs. Prescribed fire, as well as other alternatives, should be addressed here and a decision reached regarding the preferred treatment.

Prescription burning is a highly technical job requiring knowledge of fire behavior, suppression techniques, and environmental effects of fire. Well in advance of the burning season, scout stands that may need a fire treatment and choose those to burn. Over plan the number of acres to be burned by 10 to 25 percent so substitutions can be made if necessary, and so additional areas can be burned if favorable weather continues. The number of suitable burning days varies widely from year to year and the acreage that can be burned on a given day can be increased dramatically if aerial ignition is used. If you have several blocks to burn, set priorities. Specifically designate any planned burns that require exacting weather conditions. Considerations include heavy fuels, small trees, potential smoke problems, etc. Indicate all blocks to be burned on an administrative map. When the burns are completed, record the dates on the map.

A written prescribed-burning plan prepared by a knowledgeable person is needed for each area to be burned. Complete the plan before the burning season and be prepared to burn when the prescribed weather occurs. Some plans may be quite short and simple while others will be complex. Individual blocks can vary from a few acres to over 1,000, but topography, and amount and type of fuel in a unit should be similar. Your plan can consist of a series of blocks in the same compartment or management unit as long as the same objectives apply and the fuel is similar.

Break large areas into 1-day burning blocks or smaller areas. Use existing barriers such as roads and creeks where possible, but be sure these barriers are effective at the time of the burn.