Burning

Fire reduces the levels of slash, debris and litter, while releasing nutrients back into the soil. A properly timed fire will kill vegetation that initially invades a harvested stand and will also increase the ease of planting seedlings.

Keep in mind

Controlled fire should be used only under ideal conditions.

• If the site is too wet, the application will be useless.

• If the site is too dry or wind and weather conditions are not ideal, the fire can burn too hot and create potential short-term nutrient and erosion problems in the area to be planted.

Smoke management should be a priority when applying fire.

• Considering the liability and safety issues surrounding the application of fire, landowners should always work with a professional forester and double check to ensure that all the proper permits and regulations have been filed and followed.

Research has shown that the better a site is prepared, the more likely that a release treatment will not be needed two or three years later. Investments made prior to the establishment of the stand will result in higher returns when the harvest is conducted.

This is the end of the Site Preparation section. Click on the next button to proceed to Planting.