Public opinion survey on ecological uses of fire
Posted: Thu Sep 11, 2008 9:18 pm
http://www.wildlandfire.com/docs/2008/f ... ccptnc.pdf
My observation, based on actual experience:
Wide support for 'backcountry fires' in concept, but support falls when a fire actually does start and locals and visitors are told it will probably burn and make smoke all summer, sections of the forest or park will be closed for public safety not only this summer but also for a few seasons afterwards, and despite best efforts at planning/predicting there is still a chance the fire the fire will expand rapidly threatening homes and property.
And if the fire does grow uncontrollably large the same pundits and armchair fire managers who praise the initial decisionmaker for 'a courageous and sound decision to let it burn' will be demanding his head on a platter after it escapes and burns a few homes.
I will never criticize any fire manager or line officer who makes the gut-check decision to put it out instead of letting it burn. They are the ones with their necks on the chopping block if things go sour.
My observation, based on actual experience:
Wide support for 'backcountry fires' in concept, but support falls when a fire actually does start and locals and visitors are told it will probably burn and make smoke all summer, sections of the forest or park will be closed for public safety not only this summer but also for a few seasons afterwards, and despite best efforts at planning/predicting there is still a chance the fire the fire will expand rapidly threatening homes and property.
And if the fire does grow uncontrollably large the same pundits and armchair fire managers who praise the initial decisionmaker for 'a courageous and sound decision to let it burn' will be demanding his head on a platter after it escapes and burns a few homes.
I will never criticize any fire manager or line officer who makes the gut-check decision to put it out instead of letting it burn. They are the ones with their necks on the chopping block if things go sour.