Description

ANNOTATION: This study covers the results of survey concerning National Forest System prescribed burning activity and costs from 1985 to 1995. Four types of prescribed fire were looked at, including slash reduction, management-ignited fires, prescribed natural fires, and brush, grass, and rangeland burns. Ninety-five of 114 national forests responded to the survey providing rankings of importance for nine resource enhancement targets, 14 possible barriers to burning, and 12 factors that influence burning costs. Furthermore, the survey also asked the respondents the anticipated burning levels over the next ten years and what burning levels would be needed to achieve the desired management goals on National Forest System lands. ABSTRACT: The results of a survey concerning National Forest System prescribed burning activity and costs from 1985 to 1995 are examined. Ninety-five of one hundred and fourteen national forests responded. Acreage burned and costs for conducting burns are reported for four types of prescribed fires slash reduction; management-ignited fires; prescribed natural fires; and brush, grass and rangeland burns. Rankings of importance are presented for 9 resource enhancement targets, 14 potential barriers to burning, and 12 factors influencing burning costs. Survey responses concerning the presence and impact of Class I and non-attainment air quality areas are discussed. Anticipated burning levels over the next 10 years and burning levels needed to achieve desired management goals on National Forest System lands are also presented.