The Science of the Smoke: How Managed Fires Actually Keep Central Texas Safer

Where there is smoke...there is fire.

Fort Hood Controlled Burn

If things have seemed smokey lately, it is because of controlled burns at Fort Hood. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on Fort Hood has been conducting its annual prescribed burns over the last couple of weeks.

Controlled Burns Prevent Wildfires

According to KWTX, the controlled burn is to reduce Juniper growth and to ensure the growth of healthy grasslands. Burning away dead grass and debris allows the regrowth of healthy grasses which sustain wildlife. Controlled burns also lessen the possibility and severity of wildfires that thrive on dead, overgrown grass. Areas around live fire ranges are the main focus due to the increased risk of fire. Officials tell KWTX that the goal is to burn about 20 thousand acres this year.

The Environmental Impact of Controlled Burns

Many may be unaware of this, but native Americans have incorporated controlled burns in North America for thousands of years. Human-managed fires promoted the growth of new trees and food sources like acorns. There are conifers that produce pinecones that will only open under extreme heat. Fires are needed to ensure the growth of new trees.

Fire and the 20th Century

The approach to fire in the 20th century is vastly different. In states like California, fire policy is one of fire suppression. This has resulted in large areas of overgrowth and dead grasses. The forest floor is littered with dead vegetation and limbs making it a tinder box when lightning strikes or arsonists act out.

Controlled Burns Are Needed

A new study by Stanford University found that controlled burns can not only prevent wildfires, but they can also reduce the severity of fires by an average of 16%.