U.S. Geological Survey FRESC Cooperative Agreement for Fuel Break Performance Research in Great Basin Sagebrush Landscapes

The goal of this research project is to develop an iterative, analytical framework to assess the effectiveness of both individual fuel breaks and fuel break networks in the Great Basin.
To do this, we will: 1) identify initial fuel break performance metrics using expert opinion, retrospective analysis, science/management literature, and ongoing field studies; 2) model potential fire behavior and spread to test well-defined performance metrics relative to alternative fuel break configurations; and 3) evaluate trade-offs for fuel break networks using a multi-factor approach that considers impacts on wildfire behavior and risks to valued resources, with a focus on impacts to sage-grouse populations and their habitat. This research can help to design fuel break networks that optimize wildfire reduction and enhance safety, while minimizing negative effects on wildlife and their natural habitat. Coordination with management agencies during the entirety of the project will lead to development of tools, databases, and guidelines for fuel break design and multi-factor evaluation that meet fire management needs.