Stanislaus National Forest

Fire and Aviation

Fuels Management

Objectives | Prescribed Fire | Highway Groups

During the 1994 fire season, 34 fatalities occurred along with growing recognition of fire problems caused by fuel accumulation.

In 1995, the Federal Wildland Fire Management Policy articulated clear direction on important issues of safety, the role of fire in natural resource management, and the roles of the agencies in the Wildland/Urban Interface. The policy also identified the inherent risks and liabilities of using fire and recommended greater planning, preparation, cooperation, and management oversight.

In 2000, the National Fire Plan addressed firefighting, rehabilitation and restoration, hazardous fuel reduction, community assistance, and accountability.

In 2001, the 10-Year Comprehensive Strategy emphasized measures to reduce the risk to communities and the environment from wildland fires. The Strategy will help implement the National Fire Plan long-term.

After 100 years of fire suppression, the undergrowth is excessive. Where 35-50 trees per acre once existed, now 150-300 trees per acre occur. It took years to get into this situation, and it will take more than a few years to get out of it.