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41 Chapter 4: Forest Management

fires are controlled to the extent that they protect human life and property. But those factors aside, fires are often allowed to burn to help the ecosystem. Forest fires are a chance for the forest to renew itself. Sometimes a forest service may set a fire on purpose. These fires are carefully planned, controlled, and monitored, by both firefighters and the forest managers. These fires can have a very positive impact on the forest. They can remove fuel that has built up on the forest floor; add nutrients to the soil; thin the forest, allowing for new growth; and remove nonnative species. Other times, firefighters will allow a natural wildfire to burn to improve the health of a forest. They will closely monitor the flames and control the path of the fire for the maximum benefit to the forest.

Fire in a forest of ponderosa pine trees.