Predicting changes in chaparral flammability

Richard C. Rothermel; Charles W. Philpot

Treesearch

Predicting changes in chaparral flammability

Formally Refereed

Authors:

Richard C. Rothermel, Charles W. Philpot

Year:

1973

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Pacific Southwest Research Station

Source:

Journal of Forestry. 71(10): 640-643

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Abstract

A dynamic fuel model for the chaparral brush fields of southern California shows that (a) the fire threat for the first few years after a fire primarily is related to forbs and grasses; and (b) after 10 to 20 years, the brush fields will sustain very fast-spreading, high-intensity fires, depending upon the ratio of the live-to-dead fuel. The mathematical models described permit systematic analysis of the consequences of fuel treatment and fire control and projection of these consequences for the future.

Citation

Rothermel, Richard C.; Philpot, Charles W. 1973. Predicting changes in chaparral flammability. Journal of Forestry. 71(10): 640-643.