With heavy rain possible in our area, landowners with wildfire damage need to be alert for possible erosion of fire-damaged soil.
What you’re trying to accomplish is to slow the water down and spread it out so it can soak into the ground. Unfortunately, fire-damaged soil can develop an impervious layer which makes your job even more challenging.
The University of Colorado has these suggestions:
- Fell damaged trees across, not down, the slope to slow water runoff from rainfall.
- Create check dams in drainage areas using straw bales.
- Spread straw to protect the soil and help reseeding efforts.
- Use water bars to reduce soil erosion on roads.
Article written by Glenn Palmer, Extension Master Gardener Volunteer.