Private forest owners in California are increasingly seeking to use the fire for herbal remedies. Properly covered, it will withstand a great deal of adverse conditions. Depending on the landowner’s intentions, it may be less expensive than other traditional plant management practices. However, before one can start burning, there are several logistical issues Must It must be taken into account, and a No Go Checklist can ensure that critical pieces are not missed.
Commanding fire. Photo courtesy of Suzy Kocher, UC ANR
Rob York, UC Berkeley Department of Cooperative Extension Forest Specialist, Department of Environmental Science, Policy and Administration, has been implementing and studying fire safety orders at the Blujet Forest Research Center for many years. Based on his experience, he developed a No Go Checklist to make sure the operation went smoothly.
Plans and checklists are good for everyone, but may vary from person to person. – Rob York
Have a plan. Landlords should always start with a plan, although the length and details may vary greatly. Whether or not you have a burn plan, having one will help you record your due diligence as a landlord. Iowa State University Extension “Preparation of a Recommended Fire Plan, Ingredients and Considerations” for the location of the fire, target weather conditions, potential hazards, personnel needs and safety, and contacts prior to the fire. The plan also outlines the goals and objectives of the fire, including proper fire control (minimum / required / maximum acceptable combustion conditions, temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and direction, and good fuel humidity), fire control, control and cleaning. ‘ Include a map of your land if the target area for fire and natural or artificial fire protection is clearly stated. Depending on the complexity of the fire, the plan can be easily described or very detailed. For small-scale fires, the number of people involved and the necessary equipment may be small. Remember, every ordered fire is different. Landlords may need to re-evaluate their fire plan when conditions or fuel and site conditions change. Once you are accustomed to burning on your own land, you may have a simple plan like a one-page list.
When making a plan, the landowner should consider additional factors Site details. If there is already something that needs to be done to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of a safe fire and reduce the potential hazards, be clear about what needs to be done. Consider the installation of a fire extinguisher, the pre-treatment of plants in a safe area, the entry and exit of the burned room, and the supply of water.
Depending on the time of year and the local regulations, a landowner should consider the necessary considerations Permits. Smoke Management Plans are based on the requirements of your District of Quality and may, if sufficient, be incorporated into a Comprehensive Fire Reporting System (PFIRS). For some districts, fires must exceed 10 hectares in order to obtain a smoke control plan. These plans can provide basic information about the type of plants you are burning and the proximity and sensitive area of your fire. Small fires often require little detail. In most mountainous areas of Northern California, the landlord must obtain a firewall permit if a fire broke out during the declared fire (generally from May 1 to late October or early November). Outside of the specified fire season, the landlord does not need a firewall permit but can notify their local fire department before starting a courtesy.
Notifications. Recommended Fire Management Practice Practices include notifying your neighbors and the local fire agency of your desire to burn and start burning.
Safety first! Be prepared for emergencies. Accessible water, escape routes, medical plans, safe connections ሁሉ All of these factors must be considered and planned, whether you are setting fire or any other forest management activity. Better a poor horse than no horse at all.
Go / No Go Checklist. Are you ready to move on?
With a well-thought-out plan and a Go / NoGo Checklist, private forest owners can have greater confidence in their ability to carry out the fire and achieve their forest management goals.
Ordered Firefighters. Photo courtesy of Suzy Kocher, UC ANR
For more information about scheduled fires, plan fires and do not go, check here:
Before you burn, Cal Fire
Fire hazards in California, UC Agriculture and Natural Resources
Rx Burn Plans, Rob York, CE Specialist, UC Berkeley
