Prescribed burning techniques NCC

Question 1

What are the steps for prescribed burning?

Answer 1

1. determine perimeter of burn plot
2. remove extra fuel sources eg. grass duff or woody debris
3. monitor weather - temperature and wind remain consistent to keep fire under control
4. lay fire retardant hoses and soak perimeter of burn plot
5. burn for about one hour per acre

Question 2

What are the different techniques used?

Answer 2

1. back-burning = setting fires in opposite direction of wind to create slower and more thorough burn
2. bowling = using drip can on the perimeter to start small localized fires that minimizes tree burning
3. light two walls of flame that meet and extinguish themselves

Question 3

What are the different grades of fuel?

Answer 3

• 90% cured is fine fuel
• anything above means conditions are too dry
• NCC burn plot was 70% cured

Question 4

Prescribed burns are good because:

Answer 4

• the fire burns ‘cool’
• does not penetrate deep into soil horizon

Question 5

Why are multiple burns needed?

Answer 5

• the exotic seed bank is well established and several burns needed to disrupt it
• perennials and rhizomatous are hard to remove

Question 6

When do the most effective burns take place?

Answer 6

• during the summer months
  
  • solarization of charred soil creates long lasting high temperatures killing exotics but leaving natives