“After the Burn”
We all know the damage a
wildfire can cause, but do you know what happens next?
The Bureau of Land Management,
Twin Falls District Fuels Program works to establish and rehabilitate the
vegetation that once grew in the burned area.
In late fall and early
winter, they plant a mix of native grass, forbes and brush through both aerial
and drill seeding. Drill seeding is a process similar to planting a field. They
use tractors and specialized discs to “drill” the seed into the soil.
After seeds are planted, our
specialists monitor the growth of these plants and the natural recovery of the
land. They also check for any presence of invasive species including several
noxious weeds.
This process of
monitoring can take anywhere from three to 10 years depending on the area.
Why is it Important?
The goal is to ensure
natural recovery is occurring on the landscape, preserving both the habitat and
ecosystem of the burned area. By planting these seeds, we are able to stop the soil
from eroding and prevent invasive specifies from coming in.
Pictured:
These images were taken
where the #SharpsFire occurred near Bellevue nearly two years ago. Today the #BLMTFD
fuels crew continues to monitor this area to ensure it continues a natural
recovery.
You can see there has already been growth of
both native grasses, as well as sagebrush and bitter-brush.
What is unique about this
site is that, in addition to the aerial and drill seeding of this area, several
elementary school students helped plant these seeds during Natural Public Lands
Day.
To help continue this
recovery do YOUR PART in preventing wildfires. Learn more by visiting our
website, http://www.idahofireinfo.com/
#DOIDelivers
#FireYear2020 #FuelsManagement #together4idaho #ProtectYourPublicLands
