Released June 24, 2008

RENO, Nev. — Vegetation that can carry a fire burning in low-growing plants into taller plants and trees is called "ladder fuel." For example, a fire burning in fallen pine needles can ignite dry grass, which can then ignite sagebrush, which can then ignite low-growing tree branches, and eventually, the entire tree is burning. By removing some of the "rungs of the ladder," you can prevent fires from reaching tree crowns, which represent a large amount of potential fuel for fires that will burn intensely.

Create a separation between the tree canopy and the low-growing vegetation that is at least three times the height of the understory plants. For example, if the low-growing plants are 3 feet tall, the separation distance needed between them and the tree canopy would be 9 feet. The separation can be created by:

• removing the lower growing tree branches
• shortening the height of the understory vegetation, or
• completely removing the understory plants.

If there is no vegetation under the trees, remove tree limbs to a height of 2 feet to 6 feet, depending on the size of the trees. This will prevent a fire that is burning in fallen pine needles, leaves, and twigs from igniting the trees. Do not remove more than one-third of a tree’s branches, as this could damage the tree’s health.

To learn more about protecting your home from the threat of wildfire, visit http://www.livingwithfire.info or contact Ed Smith, natural resources specialist, University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, (775) 782-9960 or smithe@unce.unr.edu. Living With Fire is an interagency program coordinated by University of Nevada Cooperative Extension.

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http://www.unce.unr.edu/news/article.asp?ID=1220