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Most of Nevada is in the Great Basin, an area where plants evolved with wildfire. Many ecosystems in the state depend on periodic, low-intensity surface fires. They reduce fuel loads, decrease plant competition, facilitate biologic reproductive cycles and release nutrients back into the soil. Some plants are adapted and more resilient to wildfire than others.  For example quaking aspen resprout from root suckers and are considered pioneer species. Ponderosa pines can withstand a low intensity surface fire because of their thick barks and self-pruning branches.

Fire-dependent ecosystems can recover and may even thrive after a low-intensity surface fire. However, as wildfires become more frequent and intense, ecosystem damages can surpass nature’s ability to heal without assistance. The damage can last for years or even be irreparable. Soil erosion, watershed degradation, invasive species, and threats to human life and property are more likely to happen without a thoughtful effort to remediate the burnt areas.

The goal of post-wildfire rehabilitation is to:

• Protect communities, human life, and property
• Protect watershed and water quality
• Support ecosystem and wildlife habitat recovery
• Support agriculture and recreation land uses

The process starts with an assessment of the damage caused by the wildfire itself and by wildfire suppression operations, to determine what actions are needed. Some common methods include:

• Soil Stabilization: Log erosion barriers, water bars, straw waddles, or erosion fabric are some of the methods that can be used to stabilize the soil, mitigating run-off and slowing down erosion. Mulching can also be used to slow down erosion on slopes.


• Seeding: Seed mixes can be used to bring back desirable plants which provide roots that hold soils from wind and water erosion. Seeding can be done by hand or using equipment, like drill seeders, belly grinders, ATV spreaders, and even helicopters, for extensive areas. Resource management specialists determine the correct seed mix and calculate pounds needed per acre.
   
• Planting: In burned areas, planting site-adapted plants can help expedite re-establishment and reduce wind and soil erosion.

When to Consider Post-fire Rehabilitation

• When the fire kills most vegetation on the site. Slopes can become unstable when the fire has destroyed most of the plants that stabilize the soil and hold it together. There is a higher potential for runoff, flash flooding, mudslides, and dust clouds in severely burned areas, which can pose a risk to human safety and property.
   
• When the fire changes the soil. Intense fires can kill soil microorganisms and alter soil structure and chemical composition. In extreme cases, soils become water repellent, which can also bolster erosion, runoff, flash flooding, and mudslides.
   
• When fire damage overwhelms the natural recovery process.  Rehabilitation actions are needed to suppress invasive species colonizing burned areas and outcompeting native plants.

How can NDF Help?

NDF provides technical assistance to landowners across Nevada. This includes site assessments, seeds and plants for purchase, and recommendations that can help landowners rehabilitate their land.