Management
Burning & Thinning to Restore Forest Health
As elsewhere in the United States, Prescott National Forest is comprised of fire-adapted or fire-dependent ecosystems. Along with prescribed fire, the Forest uses other tools and methods to reduce fuels and restore forest health, such as thinning dense vegetation with chainsaws and the use of large, low-impact mulching equipment. These mechanical treatments are often used where and when prescribed fire is unavailable or in an attempt to reduce smoke emissions that can be generated by prescribed fire.
Prescribed Fire
Prescribed fire is an important tool for reducing fire danger in the wildland-urban interface and to improve forest health, watersheds, wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities. You'll find more information about prescribed fire on our Fire Information webpage.
Wildland-Urban Interface
The Prescott National Forest is actively involved with the Prescott Area Wildland Urban Interface Commission, which is known nationally for its progressive actions in mitigating many of the problems that are caused by America's encroachment into forested areas.