Briefing before the burn.
Photo Credit: Barb Mulock
The SPBA has completed its third prescribed fire activity, a 13-acre unit spanning non-native cool season grass, tall grass prairie, willow swamps, a cattail marsh and poplar woods.
The site presented challenges not seen in previous burns, including a greater fuel load, valuables requiring protection, abundant duff on the fire line and a forecasted wind shift.
Moving into new roles as Incident Commander and Crew Leader, Barb Mulock (left) and Tammy Skogan (right), respectively, were ready for the challenge.
Photo Credit: Tammy Skogan
Several members who attended the 5th Annual Canadian Prairie Training Exchange (TREX) in Saskatoon took on new leadership roles, applying their training in the field. Though burn stretched the team, it strengthened its confidence.
Creative ignition techniques and careful timing allowed crews to protect valuables within the unit while keeping an escape route open to avoid entrapment. Fuels ignited unevenly with no line in sight between the crews, clear and constant radio communication was essential. Heavy Thatch along one section of the fire guard, despite landowners effort to clear it, slowed progress. When flames challenged the guard, the second crew held ignitions and redirected resources to secure it, as the wind shifted as forecasted.
The burn reflects the significant growth the SPBA has achieved in a short time.
Congratulations to the team!
Photo Credits: Laura