Slash Disposal as Related to Fire Control on the National Forests of Western Montana and Northern Idaho

Abstract A critical study of fires occurring in the Northern Rocky Mountain area indicates that the policy of requiring complete slash disposal may be safely modified. Modifications, however, should be based upon an understanding of the hazard involved. The author lists the factors influencing hazards and points out the basic considerations upon which a new policy should rest. Uniform application of such a policy must await more detailed analysis and additional research. Such research is fully justified because fire control costs in the region amount to one million dollars annually.