Chapter 9: Fire effects and soil erosion models

Ryan, K.; Elliot, W.J. 2005. Chapter 9: Fire effects and soil erosion models. In: Neary, D.G.; Ryan, K.C.; DeBano, L.F., eds. Wildland fire in ecosystems: effects of fire on soils and water. Gen Tech Rep RMRS-GTR-42-vol.4. Ogden, UT: USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. 171-177.

Keywords: WEPP, fire effects, modeling, wildfire effects

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Abstract: In many cases, decisions about fire have to be made in short timeframes with limited information. Fire effects models have been developed or adapted to help land and fire managers make decisions on the potential and actual effects of both prescribed fires and wildfires on ecosystem resources (fig. 9.1). Fire effects models and associated erosion and runoff models apply the best fire science to crucial management decisions. These models are undergoing constant revision and update to make the latest information available to fire managers using the state-of-the-art computer hardware and software. Use of these models requires a commitment to understand their assumptions, benefits, and shortcomings, and a commitment to constant professional development.

Moscow FSL publication no. 2005m