The July Driptorch Digest is Now Available

Lowering the amount of fuel load using fuel treatment reduces the risk of wildfires. We know and preach this, and recent research from the USDA Forest Service, The Nature Conservancy, and University of Montana found that reducing fuel load with a mix of thinning and prescribed burning reduced the wildfire risk in areas by more than 60% compared to untreated areas over a 30 year span. During longleaf pine's active growth period in the south in the summer, prescribed burns conducted during this time can effectively manage competing woody vegetation, enhance the growth of indigenous grasses, foster wildlife sanctuaries, and restore the forest floor. In growing season longleaf pines produce delicate white buds, often referred to as "candles," at the tips of their branches and stems, which are easily burned. Therefore, extensive planning is crucial during the summer, since it can be so hot. The reduced fuel load allows for future stability and lower risk of wildfire in the burned areas.

Last year, a large prescribed burn was conducted and ended in a massive wildfire in North Carolina's Green Swamp Preserve. However, it ultimately contributed to the ecological health of the area. The fire burned over 16,000 acres, allowing for the growth of longleaf pine trees and native grasses. This habitat rejuvenation was very good for species like the red-cockaded woodpecker and indigo snake, which thrive in open, fire-maintained landscapes. This article highlights how the conservationists and land managers are now embracing controlled burns as a crucial tool to mimic natural fire cycles and support the diverse ecosystem of the Green Swamp Preserve.

USDA Forest Service Inflation Reduction Act Forest Landowner Support

Funding available towards two objectives:

Support the participation of underserved forest landowners in emerging private markets for climate mitigation or forest resilience
Support the participation of forest landowners who own less than 2,500 acres of forestland in emerging private markets for climate mitigation or forest resilience

Award amount: Up to $2,000,000
Application Deadline: Rolling basis, quarterly

Next Deadline: August 21, 2024

Multiple NRCS Funding Programs

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service offers several funding programs that may be used to support prescribed burning. Many private landowners in the South have already taken advantage of these programs but this year there may be more funding available than in previous years. Programs vary by area, so check out the information pages listed below.
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)
Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)
Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP)

The Driptorch Digest is distributed by NC State University as a project of the Southeast Regional Partnership for Planning and Sustainability (SERPPAS) Prescribed Fire Working Group.

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