Fireline construction is an integral component of both fire suppression and prescribed burning. However, firelines can result in excessive erosion and water quality degradation. Lines plowed in wetlands can also result in excessive drainage and possibly conversion of wetlands to non-wetland systems. Extra precautions are necessary when constructing firelines near surface waters and wetlands.
BMPs for Firelines
- Plow firelines only where necessary, making use of existing barriers such as roads, waterbodies, etc.
- Where possible, use alternatives to plowed lines such as harrowing, foam lines, wet lines or permanent grass.
- Do not plow lines through sensitive areas such as wetlands, marshes, prairies and savannas unless absolutely necessary. Avoid these areas or use alternative line construction methods.
- Maintain minimum plow depth at all times.
- When crossing waterbodies, raise the equipment to prevent connecting the line directly to the waterbody.
- Do not construct firelines which act as drainage systems, particularly those that might connect or drain isolated wetlands.
- Avoid constructing plowed firelines in the Special Management Zone, particularly the Primary Zone.
- Use water bars, turnouts and/or vegetation to stabilize firelines when erosion and sedimentation might otherwise result.
- When revegetating firelines, use native species when possible.
- Orient firelines along the contour wherever possible to prevent erosion and gullying.
- Do not prescribe burn for site preparation purposes within the Special Management Zone when the slope of the site is 18% or greater (SSCs 5 and 6). Burning for ecological purposes on steep slopes is not restricted.
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