The Big Meadow prescribed fire was an 89 acre subunit of the Foresta Complex Prescribed Fire Plan. On August 26, 2009 after planning and preparing the prescribed fire unit Park personnel began implementation of the project. At 1015 hours a test fire was initiated and results were within
prescription parameters. The Checklist was approved and ignition of the unit continued. Soon after multiple spot fires occurred outside of prepared firelines which included several burning snags. Personnel on scene were unable to contain the spot fires and the Burn Boss declared the prescribed
burn a wildfire at 1210.
The Review Team determined the following:
- The Prescribed Fire Plan met policy but was inadequate as it included a large area with diverse fuel types, topography, and environmental factors that made it difficult to determine the site specific elements necessary to implement the Big Meadow Unit.
- The prescription, actions and procedures set forth in the Prescribed Fire Plan were followed but the prescription was inadequate.
- Overall policy, guidance and procedures relating to prescribed fire operations were adequate.
- Organizationally there was knowledge of the risks and hazard associated with the prescribed burn, several individuals had key information to share, but no one person had the complete picture.
Operations, chapters 17 and 18; and principles of Operational Leadership.
Full report: http://www.nps.gov/yose/parkmgmt/upload/bigmeadowfirereport.pdf
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 01/08/2010 04:39PM by eeek.
