Professional Documents
Culture Documents
January 2004
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Table of Contents
I. Introduction 4
VII. Safety 36
A. Burn Plans 36
B. Personnel Safety 37
C. Personal Protective Equipment Required for Prescribed Burning 37
D. Working Along Roadways 38
1. Clothing 38
2. General Responsibilities 38
3. Traffic Control Signs 38
4. Identifying Advance Warning Areas 39
2
E. Safety Communication – SafeCom 39
1. Instructions for Completing the Form 39
2. Distribution of Copies 40
IX. Documentation 42
A. MNICS Daily Prescribed Burn Notice 42
B. Prescribed Burn Unit Report 43
C. Accomplishment Reporting 43
Appendix 45
Examples
Completed MN DNR Prescribed Burn Unit Plan 46
Completed Prescribed Fire Complexity Rating System Guide Worksheet 53
Completed SafeCom 63
Completed Resource Order/Purchase Order 64
Crew Briefing Form Example 67
Blank Forms
MN DNR Prescribed Unit Plan 68
Prescribed Fire Complexity Rating System Guide Worksheet 71
SafeCom 81
Grant Of Permission To Burn Lands Not Administered By The Department Of
Natural Resources 82
MN DNR Annual Prescribed Burn Accomplishment Report 83
Resource Order 85
MNICS Daily Prescribed Burn Notice 87
Escaped Prescribed Burn Report 88
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I. Introduction
Prescribed burning is a tool that is used by resource managers to achieve various land
management goals. Minnesota DNR policies and procedures relating to prescribed
burning are contained in Operational Order 47, Prescribed Burn Guidelines. The
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Prescribed Burn Handbook is intended to
supplement the policy found in the Operational Order with specific instructions, forms,
examples and tools the fire manager can use.
Responsibility and oversight for the Department of Natural Resources prescribed burn
program is handled on four levels.
The FRIT Prescribed Burn Subgroup provides Division Director’s level leadership
and oversight to prescribed burning operations by DNR employees. It also
provides direction to the Statewide Prescribed Burn Committee. The subgroup
is comprised of a representative of the Commissioner’s Office and Division
Directors with a vested interest in prescribed burning.
Regional Prescribed Burn Committees are work teams that help to facilitate and
coordinate prescribed burning occurring in their respective Regions. Each
committee is comprised of Divisional representatives with a vested interest in
prescribed burning in the region. Committee members may not necessarily be
regional staff.
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Responsibilities of the Regional Prescribed Burn Committees include:
D. Division Committees
The Prescribed Burn Unit Plan is a document that provides the Prescribed Burn
Boss all the information needed to implement the project. Prescribed burn
projects must be implemented in compliance with the written plan. At a
minimum, the plan must address the elements outlined below. The complexity of
the burn will determine the level of detail in the plan.
The Prescribed Burn Unit Plan form was designed to be electronic so the burn
boss or burn planner can easily expand the plan to meet the needs of the unit.
The length of the prescribed burn unit plan will vary according to the size and
complexity of the unit. A blank version of the form and an example of a
completed Prescribed Burn Unit Plan can be found in the appendix.
As described in Operational Order 47, the resource manager who develops the
Prescribed Burn Unit Plan is responsible for soliciting appropriate input from
other DNR Disciplines, landowners and Area Forestry Offices. The resource
manager is also responsible for obtaining an Open Burning Permit for the burn.
The Division of Forestry is responsible for the issuance of Open Burning Permits.
Since the issuance of a burning permit hinges on having an adequate Prescribed
Burn Unit Plan, it is the responsibility of the Division of Forestry to provide input
in a timely manner to the resource manager during the plan development.
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The completed burn plan will remain in effect until updated in response to
changes in the resource, safety or other conditions.
Burn Unit Name and ID: Record the name of the burn such as Buffalo River.
The ID number is specific to each Division.
Location Information:
County Name: Enter the name of the county or counties where the burn
will be conducted.
Lat/Long: (Optional) Enter the latitude and longitude of the burn unit. This
information can be determined using the Landview software program.
Section/Township/Range/Forty: Enter the legal description for the burn
area.
Management Unit Name and Number: Wildlife Management Area, State
Park, State Forest, Scientific Natural Area Name and corresponding unit
number.
Administrator: List the Division or Unit that has the administrative
responsibility for the burn unit.
Size of Burn: Record the acres involved in the burn. This can be total
acres or it can be broken by fuel model. This is a required element for the
Minnesota Smoke Management Plan.
Fuel Loading: Record the fuel loading in tons per acre. Also state whether
this came from an estimate or from actual measurement. Fuel loading
estimates can be determined using “Aids to Determining Fuel Models for
Estimating Fire Behavior” or using the Stereo Photo Series for Quantifying
Natural Fuels. These publications are available from the National
Interagency Fire Center. This is a required element for the Minnesota
Smoke Management Plan.
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Objectives:
Purpose of the Burn: Describe your measurable treatment objectives (e.g.
to reduce fine dead fuels by 90% or top kill 75% of the buckthorn sprouts).
Try to achieve these results with the given prescription.
Long Term Resource Objectives: Describe your overall goal for the site
(e.g. to maintain fire dependent prairie, reduce exotic competitors or to
improve sharp-tailed grouse habitat).
Burn Complexity:
The NWCG “Prescribed Fire Complexity Guide” (PMS 424, NFES 2474
January 2002) is the Minnesota DNR standard for rating prescribed burn
complexity. A complexity rating must be completed for each prescribed
burn project. Determination of complexity is based on three fire
complexity factors: (1) Risk (the probability or likelihood that an adverse
event or situation will occur), (2) Potential Consequences (a measure of
the cost or result of an adverse event or situation occurring), and (3)
Technical Difficulty (the skills needed to implement the project and deal
with unexpected or adverse events).
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Moderate: May require staffing of a majority of the prescribed fire
positions, potential for spot fires that will spread moderately but can
be taken care of by prompt holding action, safety issues have been
identified that may require mitigation or use of special briefings to
raise awareness.
A majority of the burns executed by DNR personnel will fall in the low and
moderate complexity classification.
The prescribed burn complexity system does not tie directly to the
qualifications system. However, all burns rated, as high complexity will
require a Minnesota Burn Boss Type 1 and a Minnesota Ignition Specialist
Type 1.
The burn prescription window is split into two portions: the minimum
prescription and the maximum prescription. The minimum prescription is
the least or lowest amount of fire behavior the burn boss must have to
achieve the burn objectives. The maximum prescription is the maximum
or highest amount of fire behavior the burn boss can have that will achieve
the burn objectives while providing for safety and preventing escapes.
The burn boss or prescribed burn planner has a number of tools that they
can use to develop their burn prescription.
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lengths and spread rate and the program calculates acceptable wind
limits, fuel moisture etc.
Additional Considerations:
These are considerations that, if present, may require the burn boss to
mitigate prior to implementation of the plan.
Cultural sites - If a cultural site is present at the burn location, list what it
is. Indicate how you would mitigate the risk to the site (e.g. avoid the use
of heavy equipment or the use of digging tools)
Adjacent land concerns – If adjacent landowners are present, list who they
are and their proximity to the burn. If necessary indicate how you would
mitigate the risk to the adjacent landowner (e.g. contact owner of turkey
farm prior to the burn so that ventilation can be adjusted to the barns)
Peat soils or wet soils – Indicate if peat soils or wet soils are present and
to what extent and their location in the burn unit. If necessary, indicate
how to mitigate rutting or ignition of peat during the burning operation.
Personnel Needs:
Enter the level of burn boss needed to complete the burn. The choices
available are Minnesota Burn Boss Type 3 (MRXB3), Minnesota Burn
Boss Type 2 (MRXB2), Minnesota Burn Boss Type 1 (MRXB1), NWCG
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Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 2 (RXB2), and NWCG Prescribed Fire
Burn Boss Type (RXB1). Personnel qualification requirements are
covered later in this document.
Indicate how many of what positions are needed to accomplish the burn.
(For example, you may need 5 firefighters, 1 ignition specialist and 1 burn
boss.)
Equipment Needs:
Indicate the type, quantity and source of equipment needed to accomplish
the burn.
Operations Plans:
Pre-Burn Site Preparation Plan – Outline any site preparation that needs
to take place in advance of the burn day. This may include plans for fire
line preparation, pre-treatment around signs or trail markers, and
preparation of helispots.
Ignition/Firing Plan - Outline the ignition or firing plan that will be executed
the day of the burn. The ignition plan should indicate the firing pattern that
will be used, what type of firing device will be employed, the preferred
wind direction and any hazards or special considerations that need to be
taken into account. On the day of the burn, monitor initial ignition (test
burn) to determine fire behavior on the site. This can be used to
determine if the burn should be delayed or cancelled.
Contingency Plans:
Contingency plans should be developed to accommodate the potential for
an escaped prescribed burn or equipment failure.
For equipment failure, list sources of contingency resources you may draw
from.
For an escape, indicate the secondary control lines for the burn, trigger
points for termination of ignition procedures and summoning contingency
resources. Also outline what the anticipated contingency resources are
for the burn, where they may be located and their approximate response
times. This list will need to be referred to when executing the Go/No Go
Checklist.
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Smoke Management Plan
Specific information on smoke management is contained in the Minnesota
Smoke Management Plan. The Minnesota DNR is one of the signatory agencies
to this document and must follow the recommendations found within the plan.
Copies of the Minnesota Smoke Management Plan can be found on the DNR
Prescribed Burn web site.
Safety Plan
The safety of firefighters and the public is the number one priority when
planning and implementing a prescribed burn project. The prescribed
burn unit plan should identify safety zones and escape routes for the burn.
A communications plan should also be included outlining radio
frequencies or cellular phone numbers that ensure adequate
communications with burn staff and emergency resources.
Medical Plan
A medical plan is required in the event of a medical emergency on the
burn. In addition to notification of the 9-1-1 dispatcher, identify the nearest
ground and air ambulance, location of the nearest hospital, also list what
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first aid supplies are available at the burn site, what person or equipment
they are assigned to and how they can be contacted.
List of Attachments
A project map is required to be attached to all Prescribed Burn Unit Plans.
If the burn is to be executed on non-DNR lands by DNR staff and
equipment, then DNR form NA-1973 Grant of Permission to Burn Lands
Not Administered by the Department of Natural Resources, is also
required to be attached.
Signatures
Prepared by: The person who prepared the prescribed burn unit plan
needs to sign the document signifying it is complete and accurate.
Reviewed by: As per Operational Order 47, all burn plans must be
reviewed and signed by a Burn Boss 1 or 2 that is qualified for the
complexity and fuel type indicated in the plan. Reviewers need to include
their prescribed burn qualification title with their signature.
Go/No Go Checklist
The Go/No Go checklist must be completed on the day of the burn prior to
execution of the burn. All elements must be answered in the affirmative prior to
ignition.
The Prescribed Burn Unit Report is completed the day of the burn and also after
the burn is completed. The report provides record of forecasted and observed
fire weather, observed fire behavior and final burn acreage accomplishments.
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Observed Fire Behavior: Record actual fire behavior observations such
as the spread rate, flame length and scorch height. If multiple
observations are made record the time they were made.
Acres Burned by Fuel Model and ECS Type/SubType: Once the burn is
complete record the actual acres burned by fuel model and record acres
burned by ECS Type or SubType whichever is applicable.
Post Burn Observations: Post burn observations should include the extent
to which you met your objectives. For example, if one of your objectives
of the burn was to reduce fine dead fuels, you might say “dry conditions
were present at the time of the burn so duff was completely consumed”.
You may also want to include any notes on control, which might be helpful
on future burns.
The question of liability is often raised when the DNR burns private lands. This
should be looked at in the same light as State land burning. Take the same
precautions and preparations. Fill out the same MN DNR Prescribed Burn Unit
Plan form. If the fire escapes and does damage to adjoining property, the State
may be subject to the same liability risk as if the fire were on State lands and
escaped.
DNR employees are allowed to burn lands not administered by the DNR when
the objectives achieved fall within the goals of the local DNR unit. Some
examples of past private lands burning include burning a key tract of wildlife
habitat, burning a private parcel that lies within or adjacent to state land, and
burning a tract of native prairie. Another example would be the DNR conducting
a burn on land owned by a county or private conservation organization such as
The Nature Conservancy.
In some instances, the DNR provides all the resources and conducts the entire
burn, or one or more DNR staff may lead or participate in the burn. In instances
where DNR personnel lead the burn, the form (NA-1973) entitled “Grant of
Permission to Burn Lands not Administered by the Department of Natural
Resources” must be completed and retained by the Burn Boss. A completed
burn plan must be submitted as is done for burning on State lands.
There are other times where DNR involvement may amount to the loaning of
some equipment such as bladder bags, drip torches, or assisting as firefighters
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for another agency or organization to complete a prescribed burn. It would not
be necessary to fill out a burn plan or permission form in these cases.
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IV. Qualification and Training Requirements for Prescribed Burn Personnel
The Minnesota DNR adheres to a two-track system with regard to prescribed burn
qualifications: the DNR Prescribed Burn Qualification track and the National Wildfire
Coordinating Group (NWCG) track. The track chosen by the individual will depend
upon the prescribed burn complexity and level of interagency cooperation the individual
intends to work with. Interagency burns involve both DNR and federal agencies. All
interagency prescribed burns will adhere to NWCG qualification standards unless local
agreements dictate otherwise. Consult with your supervisor or a member of your
statewide or Regional Prescribed Burn Committee to determine the track that will meet
your needs.
MRxB1
MN Burn Boss Type 1
Prereq: MRxB2 AND SRB qualified
MRxB2 SRB
MN Burn Boss Type 2 Single Resource Boss
Prereq: MRxI2qualified Prereq: FFT1 qualified
(NWCG)
MRxI1
MN Ignition Specialist 1 FFT1
Prereq: MRxB3 or MRXB2 Advanced Firefighter/Squad Boss
Prereq:FFT2
(NWCG)
MRxB3
MN Burn Boss Type 3 FFT2
Prereq: MRxI2 FireFighter
(NWCG)
MRxI2
MN Ignition Specialist 2
Prereq: MFFT2
MFFTT
MN Firefighter Trainee MFFT2
MN Firefighter
Required training:
• Annual Firefighter Safety Refresher
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• Personal Protective Equipment Briefing (see PPE a Short Guide
for Wildland Firefighters)
Conditions for use:
• FFTT may be used only under the direct oral and visual control
of a qualified firefighter (i.e. MFFT2 or higher)
Required training:
• S-130 Firefighter Training
• S-190 Introduction to Fire Behavior
Recommended training to support knowledge and skills:
• I-100 Introduction to Incident Command System
Position Task Book:
• The position task book for MFFT2 is optional.
Physical fitness
• Moderate as per condition of employment
• Supervisory determination where no employment condition
exists
Required Training
• S-130 Firefighter Training
• S-190 Introduction to Fire Behavior
• S-234 Ignition Operations
• S-290 Intermediate Fire Behavior
Recommended training to support knowledge and skills:
• I-100 Introduction to Incident Command System
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• I-200 Basic Incident Command System
• S-131 Advanced Firefighter/Squad Boss
Position Task Books
• MRXI2 Minnesota Ignition Specialist Type 2
Physical Fitness
• Moderate as per condition of employment
• Supervisory determination where no employment condition
exists
Required Training
• S-130 Firefighter Training
• S-131 Advanced Firefighter/Squad Boss
• S-190 Introduction to Fire Behavior
• S-234 Ignition Operations
• S-270 Basic Air Operations
• S-290 Intermediate Fire Behavior
Recommended training to support knowledge and skills:
• I-100 Introduction to Incident Command System
• I-200 Basic Incident Command System
• RX-300 Prescribed Fire Burn Boss
Position Task Books
• MRXI2 Minnesota Ignition Specialist Type 2 AND
• MRXB3 Minnesota Burn Boss 3 or MRXB2 Minnesota Burn Boss
2
• MRXI1 Minnesota Ignition Specialist Type 1
Physical Fitness
• Moderate as per condition of employment
• Supervisory determination where no employment condition
exists
Required Training
• S-130 Firefighter Training
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• S-190 Introduction to Fire Behavior
• S-234 Ignition Operations
• S-290 Intermediate Fire Behavior
Recommended training to support knowledge and skills:
• I-100 Introduction to Incident Command System
• I-200 Basic Incident Command System
• S-131 Advanced Firefighter/Squad Boss
• RX-300 Prescribed Fire Burn Boss
Position Task Books
• MRXI2 Minnesota Ignition Specialist Type 2 AND
• MRXB3 Minnesota Burn Boss 3
Physical Fitness
• Moderate as per condition of employment
• Supervisory determination where no employment condition
exists
Required Training
• S-130 Firefighter Training
• S-190 Introduction to Fire Behavior
• S-234 Ignition Operations
• S-290 Intermediate Fire Behavior
• S-390 Fire Behavior Calculations
• RX-300 Prescribed Fire Burn Boss or equivalent
Recommended training to support knowledge and skills:
• I-100 Introduction to Incident Command System
• I-200 Basic Incident Command System
• L-280 Followership to Leadership or equivalent such as DOER
Basic Supervision course
• RX-310 Introduction to Fire Effects
• S-131 Advanced Firefighter/Squad Boss
Position Task Books
• MRXI2 Minnesota Ignition Specialist Type 2 AND
• MRXB2 Minnesota Burn Boss 2
Physical Fitness
• Moderate as per condition of employment
• Supervisory determination where no employment condition
exists
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Minnesota Burn Boss Type 1 (MRXB1)
Minnesota Burn Boss Type 1’s (MRXB1) are qualified to direct a
prescribed burn of high or lower complexity (based on the NIIMS
Complexity Rating Guide) on DNR or private lands. They have
demonstrated proficiency in the fuel type(s) they are burning. Typically
they would handle large grass/brush, oak woods/savanna, hardwood
under story, large slash and medium to large pine under story burns.
MRXB1 must meet the prerequisite qualifications of both an MRXB2
and an NWCG single resource boss (engine, crew etc).
Required Training
• S-130 Firefighter Training
• S-131 Advanced Firefighter/Squad Boss
• S-190 Introduction to Fire Behavior
• S-230 Crew Boss
• S-234 Ignition Operations
• S-290 Intermediate Fire Behavior
• S-390 Fire Behavior Calculations
• S-490 Advanced Fire Behavior
• RX-300 Prescribed Fire Burn Boss or equivalent
Recommended training to support knowledge and skills:
• I-100 Introduction to Incident Command System
• I-200 Basic Incident Command System
• L-280 Followership to Leadership or equivalent such as DOER
Basic Supervision course
• RX-310 Introduction to Fire Effects
• RX-410 Smoke Management
• S-211 Portable Pumps and Water Use
• S-212 Power Saws
• S-215 Fire Operations in the Urban Interface
• S-231 Engine Boss
• S-270 Basic Air Operations
Position Task Books
• MRXI2 Minnesota Ignition Specialist Type 2 AND
• MRXB2 Minnesota Burn Boss 2 AND
• MRXB1 Minnesota Burn Boss 1 AND
• FFT1 Advanced Firefighter/Squad Boss AND
• Any Single Resource Boss (ENGB or CRWB or FIRB or DOZB)
Physical Fitness
• Moderate as per condition of employment
• Supervisory determination where no employment condition
exists
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2. Transition
Personnel qualified and current in a position prior to the issuance of this
handbook shall remain qualified unless their Division certification process
recommends the completion of additional training or experience.
Some of the positions found under the MN DNR Prescribed Fire Track will
use existing NWCG Task Books as a means of evaluating an individual’s
performance in a position. It should be noted that completion of such a
task book does not make the individual nationally qualified in that position
unless that individual has also met the NWCG requirements for training,
experience and physical fitness.
4. Training
Each prescribed burn position has identified required training and
recommended training to support knowledge and skills. Required training
must be completed prior to issuance of the task book for that position.
Training that is recommended to support knowledge and skills is not
required; however, if the training is not completed the employee must be
able to demonstrate they have the knowledge and skills contained in the
recommended coursework.
5. Physical Fitness
Physical fitness requirements will be specified by an individual’s condition
of employment or determined by their supervisor where no employment
condition exists.
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appears physically incapable of performing without risk of physical injury
due to work demands.
Task books should not be certified with only one incident evaluation record
unless the length of the assignment and the complexity of the assignment
were able to provide the trainee a firm grasp of the position
responsibilities. Evaluation records that are labeled Misc. ABC Fires or
Misc. ABC Rx Fires should have accompanying documentation on the
specific incidents the trainee completed.
The certifier should verify that all required course work has been
completed prior to certification. The certifier should verify what additional
training that supports position development has been completed. If the
trainee does not have the knowledge and skills contained in the additional
training listed for that position, the certifier should consider recommending
completion of that training prior to certification.
If the final evaluator for a position task book also happens to be the
certifier for the Division, they should forward the task book to the next
higher level for certification.
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positions. The Prairie Biologist can forward task books for certification to
MIFC for verification and certification if he does not feel comfortable
certifying in a position.
Two copies should be made of the task book, one for the Prairie Biologist
or designee and one for MIFC. The original signed and certified position
task book should be returned to the individual.
Any task books for positions not listed above must be forwarded to the
Fire Training Coordinator at Minnesota Interagency Fire Center for
certification.
Fire Team Leaders can forward task books for certification to the Fire
Training Coordinator for verification and certification if they do not feel
comfortable certifying a position. The original signed and certified task
book should be returned to the individual. Two copies should be made of
the task book one for the local Fire Team Leader’s records and one for the
records at MIFC.
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positions. Regional Resource Specialists can forward task books for
certification to the Division of Parks Resource Program Coordinator for
verification and certification if they do not feel comfortable certifying in a
position.
Two copies should be made of the task book, one for the Regional
Resource Specialist or designee and one for MIFC. The original signed
and certified position task book should be returned to the individual.
7. Position Currency
The maximum time allowed for maintaining currency of prescribed burn
positions is 5 years.
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Qualification and Certification Flow Chart
NO
Additional All tasks signed off All tasks completed. Division certifier
performance in Position Task Final evaluator verifies: training,
assignment or Book with multiple recommends prerequisite
NO YES YES
training required. evaluations/burns. certification. positions and Task
Region/Area office Book evaluations.
agrees. Completes agency
certification portion
of Position Task
Book.
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B. NWCG Prescribed Burn Qualifications Track
RxB1
Burn Boss Type 1
Prereq: RxB2 AND ICT3
RxB2 ICT3
Burn Boss Type 2 Incident Commander Type 3
Prereq: RxI2 + ICT4 qualified Prereq: ICT4 + TFLD or
STL + 2SRB + ICT4
FFT1 SRB
Advanced Firefighter/Squad Boss Single Resource Boss
Prereq: FFT2 qualified (Crew, Engine, Firing, Felling, Dozer, Tractor/Plow)
Prereq: FFT1 qualified
FFT2 FFT1
Firefighter Advanced Firefighter/Squad Boss
Prereq: FFT2 qualified
FFT2
Firefighter
** Note Task Force Leader can be reached by being qualified as an ICT4 AND any two Single Resource Bosses
OR by being a Strike Team Leader. Since ICT4 is required for RXB2 certification and since Minnesota does not
use the Strike Team Leader position as much as the Task Force Leader position, it is recommended that
personnel take the route shown above.
Shaded boxes indicate positions already attained through the RXB2 arm of the qualification chart.
Firefighter (FFT2)
A firefighter is the basic resource used in the control and extinguishment of
wildfires and in the preparing, firing and holding of lines for prescribed burns.
They work either as an individual or as a member of a crew under the
supervision of a higher qualified individual.
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Required training
• S-130 Firefighter Training
• S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior
Physical fitness
• Arduous
Physical fitness
• Arduous
Single Resource Boss (Crew Boss CRWB, Engine Boss ENGB, Dozer Boss
DOZB, Firing Boss FIRB, Tractor Plow Boss TRPB)
A single resource boss is responsible for supervising and directing a fire
suppression module such as a hand crew, an engine, a dozer, a helicopter, a
firing team or a tractor plow.
Required training
• S-130 Firefighter Training
• S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior
• S-131 Advanced Firefighter Training
• S-230 Crew Boss
• S-290 Intermediate Fire Behavior
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Recommended training to support knowledge and skills
• I-100 Introduction to ICS
• I-200 Basic ICS
• S-211 Portable Pumps and Water Use
• S-212 Wildfire Power Saws
• S-231 Engine Boss
• S-234 Ignition Operations
• S-260 Interagency Incident Business Management
• S-270 Basic Air Operations
• L-280 Followership to Leadership
Physical fitness
• Arduous
Required training
• S-130 Firefighter Training
• S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior
• S-131 Advanced Firefighter Training
• S-215 Fire Operations in the Urban Interface
• S-230 Crew Boss
• S-290 Intermediate Fire Behavior
Physical fitness
• Arduous
Required training
• S-130 Firefighter Training
• S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior
• S-131 Advanced Firefighter Training
• S-230 Crew Boss
• S-290 Intermediate Fire Behavior
Physical fitness
• Agency determined (usually moderate)
Physical fitness
• Arduous
Required training
• S-130 Firefighter Training
• S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior
• S-131 Advanced Firefighter Training
• S-215 Fire Operations in the Urban Interface
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• S-230 Crew Boss
• S-290 Intermediate Fire Behavior
• S-390 Wildland Fire Behavior Calculations
Physical fitness
• Agency established (usually moderate)
Required training
• S-130 Firefighter Training
• S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior
• S-131 Advanced Firefighter Training
• S-215 Fire Operations in the Urban Interface
• S-230 Crew Boss
• S-290 Intermediate Fire Behavior
• S-330 Task Force/Strike Team Leader
• S-390 Fire Behavior Calculations
30
Recommended training to support knowledge and skills
• I-100 Introduction to ICS
• I-200 Basic ICS
• S-200 Initial Attack Incident Commander
• S-211 Portable Pumps and Water Use
• S-212 Wildfire Power Saws
• S-231 Engine Boss
• S-234 Ignition Operations
• S-260 Interagency Incident Business Management
• S-270 Basic Air Operations
• S-300 Extended Attack Incident Commander
• L-280 Followership to Leadership
Physical fitness
• Arduous
Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 1’s (RXB1) are qualified to direct a prescribed
burn of high or lower complexity (based on the NIIMS Complexity Rating
Guide) on all lands. They have demonstrated proficiency in the fuel type(s)
they are burning. Typically they would handle large grass/brush, oak
woods/savanna, hardwood under story, large slash and medium to large pine
under story burns. RXB1 must meet the prerequisite qualifications of both an
RXB2 and an NWCG Extended Attack Incident Commander (ICT3).
Required training
• S-130 Firefighter Training
• S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior
• S-131 Advanced Firefighter Training
• S-215 Fire Operations in the Urban Interface
• S-230 Crew Boss
• S-290 Intermediate Fire Behavior
• S-330 Task Force/Strike Team Leader
• S-390 Fire Behavior Calculations
• S-490 Advanced Fire Behavior Calculations
Physical fitness
• Agency determined (usually moderate)
Becoming qualified for most positions requires completing a task book. Task books
are a means of evaluating the performance of an individual who is in training for a
new position or for recertifying individuals whose currency in the position has lapsed.
They contain critical tasks that are required to perform the job. The task book can
be used as a teaching and/or mentoring tool for trainees to learn job skills under the
guidance of qualified individuals. The trainee must perform each task while being
observed by an evaluator or person who is already qualified in that position. It is
strongly recommended that each task book have more than one evaluator and more
than one assignment. See the Wildland and Prescribed Fire Qualifications System
Guide PMS 310-1 for more detailed information.
Trainees must complete all required training and prerequisite experience for a
particular qualification prior to obtaining and initiating a position task book.
Completion of a DNR Position Task Book does not qualify a person for an NWCG
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position. NWCG Task Books are available from MIFC or they can be downloaded
from the Internet at http://www.nwcg.gov/pms/taskbook/taskbook.htm
3. Training
Each prescribed burn position has identified required training and identified
recommended training to support knowledge and skills. Required training must be
completed prior to issuance of the task book for that position. Training that is
recommended to support knowledge and skills is not required; however, if the
training is not completed the employee must be able to demonstrate they have the
knowledge and skills contained in the recommended coursework.
4. Physical Fitness
Nationally, physical fitness standards for NWCG prescribed burn positions are
established at the agency level. Minnesota DNR physical fitness standards for
prescribed burn positions are specified by an individual’s condition of employment or
determined by their supervisor where no employment condition exists.
6. Position Currency
The maximum time allowed for maintaining currency of prescribed burn positions is
5 years.
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V. Obtaining Prescribed Burn Supplies and Equipment
A. Private Vendors
DNR Divisions can also acquire prescribed burning supplies and equipment from
the Northeast Interagency Fire Cache located in Grand Rapids Minnesota. The
USDA Forest Service and the DNR jointly operate the cache. It services state
and federal firefighting agencies in the 20 Northeastern United States. The
cache stocks over 1000 items related to wildland fire and prescribed burning. A
complete listing what is available is listed in the NWCG National Fire Equipment
System Catalog. Catalogs can be borrowed from a local Forestry Area Office or
purchased from the fire cache.
DNR Divisions have two methods for acquiring specialized prescribed burning
supplies and equipment from the Northeast Interagency Fire Cache.
1. Purchasing
DNR Divisions may purchase supplies by sending a Department Purchase
Order directly to the Northeast Interagency Fire Cache in Grand Rapids.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as: fire clothing, fire shelters,
hard hats, gloves, military web gear, safety glasses, headlamps, first aid
kits, and canteens can be purchased from the cache. Consumable items
such as earplugs, canteens and gloves must be purchased. A complete
listing what is available is listed in the NWCG National Fire Equipment
System Catalog. Catalogs can be borrowed from a local Forestry Area
Office or purchased from the fire cache. Orders can be mailed to the
Northeast Interagency Fire Cache, 402 S.E. 11th Street Grand Rapids MN
55744 or faxed to the cache at 218-327-4581. Questions on specific
orders can be answered by calling the cache at 218-327-4579.
2. Borrowing
Supplies and equipment can also be acquired on a short-term loan basis
by sending a resource order to the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center
(MIFC). These materials should be ordered two weeks before they are
needed, and returned immediately after their last use. Since the main
emphasis of the cache is suppression, limits may be placed on what what
can be borrowed and for how long. There will be a charge for the radio
use to cover fleet costs. There may also be a refurbishment charge for
some of the equipment. Gloves and canteens are not returnable and must
be purchased.
34
Use a supply resource order when borrowing personal protective gear,
hose, batteries, pumps, etc. Some things to keep in mind when filling out
a resource order include:
o Use a street address instead of a box number.
o Use a date needed, not “as soon as possible”.
o Use the correct unit of issue for the item you are ordering. For
example, enter “ea” for each, or “bx” for box. This is listed under
“order by unit of issue” in the cache catalog.
o Use the 4digit National Fire Equipment System (NFES) number.
This is necessary for the order to be filled.
o Do not assume the item comes with everything needed to operate.
Headlamps need batteries. Tents need to have poles and stakes
ordered as well.
o Chainsaw, pump and generator kits are considered supplies. Tags
are included in these kits. If the chainsaw, pump or generator
breaks down, or does not operate in a satisfactory manner, note the
problem on the tag.
Prescribed burners can also check with the local Forestry office to see if there
might be some local availability of equipment and supplies. The Division of
Forestry will continue to use the ordering procedures spelled out in the cache
catalog.
Just as Divisions may need to borrow supplies and equipment to accomplish their burn
objectives, a need may also be present for additional trained and qualified prescribed
burn personnel. Burn bosses and managers have several options available to them.
Burn bosses may ask for the assistance of qualified personnel from the local vicinity,
from within their own division or from another division within the DNR. Regional
Prescribed Burn Committees have the responsibility of maintaining a regional list of
prescribed burn resources that can be shared within the region. Resources may also
be borrowed from other agencies such as U.S.D.I. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S.D.A.
35
Forest Service, and The Nature Conservancy. If resources need to come from outside
the local area they may need to be resource ordered through the Minnesota Interagency
Fire Center. Also burn bosses need to be aware that if federal personnel are used on a
burn, NWCG training and qualification guidelines will need to be adhered to.
On large complex burns resources may be needed from multiple regions and from other
agencies. For this reason, the MNICS Prescribed Fire Working Team holds an annual
meeting in the spring of each year to review any large, complex burns that are planned
by federal and state agencies. Since many of the burns in this category may be
competing for the same resources, the working team looks at the timing of each burn
and develops a priority listing of burns to be accomplished based on the resources
available.
VII. Safety
The safety of firefighters and the public is the number one priority when planning and
implementing a prescribed burn project. Every person involved in a prescribed burn
project is responsible for identifying safety issues and concerns. It is the responsibility
of each individual participating in prescribed burn activities to let the burn boss know if
they do not understand their assignment or have a safety concern related to the
assignment.
A. Burn Plans
Actions to provide for safety must be identified on every burn plan and followed in
the operations of the burn.
It is recommended that another qualified person, other than the one writing the
plan, review it. This will help ensure that safety is planned for. The reviewer
should be a Burn Boss 1 or 2 that is qualified for the complexity level and fuel
type of the burn.
Burn plans written by a Minnesota Burn Boss Type 3 (MRXB3) are required to be
reviewed with a Minnesota Burn Boss Type 2 prior to execution.
36
Burn plans must include a contingency plan which states actions that will be
taken if the unforeseen happens (e.g. the burn exceeds the prescription or
equipment fails).
Burn plans will also include a medical plan that states actions that will be taken if
someone is injured. The ICS Form 206 Medical Plan is a form that can be used
or the information can be entered directly into the burn plan.
B. Personnel Safety
All fireline personnel are responsible for safety during the course of a prescribed
burn. The Burn Boss is responsible to supervise safety on all burns. Use of a
Safety Officer whose sole responsibility is fire line safety is encouraged. The
need for a Safety Officer increases with the complexity of the fire operations and
the number of fire line personnel. It is recommended that the person in charge of
safety complete an analysis of risk and mitigation, and conduct a briefing on
safety issues. Incident Safety Analysis (ICS 215A / NFES 2221) is a form that
can be used for risk analysis. The Burn Boss or delegate will conduct a briefing
before each burn to communicate safety issues. The briefing will include
communications, predicted weather and fire behavior, planned operations, and
other safety concerns.
The following items will be worn on any prescribed burning done by MN DNR
personnel, or by anyone working on Department prescribed burns. Personal
protective equipment and proper use is further described in Personal Protective
Equipment – A Short Guide for Wildland Firefighters.
37
With the exception of boots and cotton clothing, all the equipment is available
from the Northeast Interagency Fire Cache in Grand Rapids. (See ordering
instructions in Section V. of this handbook.)
Prescribed burns that occur along road right of ways or adjacent to roads should
have signs posted to alert drivers either to potential smoke on the highway or that
there are personnel working along the roadway.
1. Clothing
All clothing worn on roadways shall be in accordance with Minnesota
OSHA Rules and Minnesota DNR policies. Specifically, all employees
must wear FR ANSI Class II high visibility vests under the following
circumstances:
a. All employees working on the ground on any wildfire or
prescribed fire assignments within road right-of-ways which
would include: loading or unloading of fire equipment,
suppression, prescribed burning, mop-up or traffic control
activities.
b. Employees working on the ground around any mobile earth
moving equipment (bulldozers, road graders, backhoes, front-
end loaders).
Vests must be worn during the above situations for daytime or night
operations. For full 360-degree visibility of the wearer, the vest must be
secured in front by a Velcro attachment and not left open. Vests should
have a tear away feature in the event that the vest becomes entangled in
hose reels/machinery etc.
All advance warning signs will be a minimum of 48” X 48” on all State
(MNDOT) highways and all high speed roadways (speed limit is 45 mph or
greater). Advanced warning signs on low speed roadways (speed limit is
40 mph or less) must be a minimum of 36” X 36”.
Signs should be placed on the right hand side of a two-way roadway and
on both the right and left sides of a multi-land roadway. If the location of
the smoke or the work along the roadway changes, signs should be
adjusted accordingly.
Event: Enter the date and time of the event. Indicate if there were injuries
or damage. List the location of the event such as Mille Lacs Wildlife
Management Area.
39
Narrative: Describe what happened using as much detail as possible.
Lessons Learned: Describe the steps needed to prevent the problem from
occurring again. If you are unsure of this, the Regional Safety Specialist
will be able to assist.
2. Distribution of Copies
An escaped burn is when there is fire outside the prescribed burn perimeter that
requires additional resources beyond those planned to be on-site in the
Prescribed Burn Unit Plan, or which causes significant property damage. Fire
that crosses the fire line and is contained with resources on-site is not an
escaped prescribed burn.
All escaped prescribed burns will have an administrative review completed. The
Regional Prescribed Burn Committee is responsible for assembling a review
team and appointing a chair. The team is responsible for: ensuring proper
documentation and analysis of facts, developing recommendations, and
disseminating recommendations or findings. The level and scope of the review
will be determined by the injuries, damage, and cost associated with the escape.
The objective of the review is to recommend actions to avoid future escapes.
In the event of an escape, the following actions should take place to properly
document, analyze, and report the escape:
1. Documentation of Events
The burn boss will document all relevant information and events using the
Escaped Prescribed Burn Report form including:
a. Background (description of planned burn, the Prescribed
Burn Unit Report, actions leading up to the burn)
b. Burn events (what happened during the burn and the
escape)
c. Cause of the escape (what factor(s) led to escape;
equipment, personnel action, fire behavior, weather change,
drought conditions etc.)
40
Other documentation should be completed as needed. For example, A
DNR Employee/Equipment Injury/Accident Investigation form should be
completed if an injury occurred or if damage occurred to a vehicle.
Additional information may be requested by the review team from
personnel who would have first hand knowledge of the events of the
escape.
All escaped prescribed burns must have an Individual Fire Report (NA-
01985-4) completed by the Area Forestry Office in conjunction with the
incident commander of the escaped fire.
The review team should analyze all relevant information to identify the
factor(s) causing the escape. This may include analysis of:
a. Direct causes, such as, equipment failure, weather changes,
personnel actions, etc.
b. Prescribed Burn Unit Plan to determine if it was adequate for
the project and if procedures in the plan were followed
c. Experience and training levels of personnel involved
d. Overall policy, guidance, and procedures relating to prescribed
burning
41
5. Dissemination of Findings
The review team will use a variety of methods to disseminate the findings
of the review. Recommendations for improving safety or operations that
would apply to others can be made using a SafeCom (refer to Section VII
Safety, Part D Safety Communication). Other findings or lessons learned
should be circulated to other prescribed burners around the state. Again,
the goal of the review process is to learn from it and reduce the
occurrence of escapes.
IX. Documentation
A. MNICS Daily Prescribed Burn Notice
The Division of Forestry Area Forestry Offices complete the MNICS Daily
Prescribed Burn Notice when they are contacted to activate a burning permit for
a prescribed burn. A copy of the form is located in the forms section of the
appendix. The following information is collected:
• Planned date of the burn
• Agency and Unit – For agency enter MNS for Minnesota State. For the
unit enter WLF, PKS, FOR, TAW, ECO or PVT for the Section of Wildlife,
Division of Parks, Forestry, Trails and Waterways, Ecological Services
and private contractors.
• Burn name and Burn ID number – Enter the name of the burn and its
identification number if your Division has a numbering system.
• Fuel Type(s) – Enter the primary fuel model or models of the fuel that will
be carrying the fire. This should be one of the 13 Fire Behavior Prediction
System fuel models.
• Planned acres
• Legal description – Section, township and range of the burn. If the forty is
available it can also be included.
• Latitude and longitude of the burn.
• Planned duration – enter number of operational periods the burn is
expected to take.
The MNICS Daily Prescribed Burn Notice is faxed, called or e-mailed to the MIFC
Intelligence Desk by 1200 noon.
The following only needs to be reported by the burn boss on an as needed basis.
Areas may choose to report this by faxing in a second notice and highlighting the
corrected information.
• Actual acres completed – this field only needs to be completed if the
actual acres completed are significantly different than the planned acres
(e.g. 40 acres were planned and only 4 acres were accomplished).
• Smoke complaint on Burn – The Minnesota Smoke Management Plan
requires that all smoke complaints from prescribed burns be tracked and
reported to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. If you receive a
42
smoke complaint, note it on the form and either fax or call the information
to MIFC.
The Prescribed Burn Unit Report is described in detail in section III B. of this
handbook. This report contains the burn day forecast and observed weather, fire
behavior observations as well as post burn observations and recommendations.
C. Accomplishment Reporting
The Divisions of Forestry, Ecological Services and Parks and the Section of
Wildlife will participate in the biweekly MNICS conference calls during the
prescribed burn season. During these calls, all participants will discuss burning
conditions and whether or not there is a need for prescribed burning restrictions.
If conditions warrant, they will attempt to reach consensus on when and where
the restrictions will take place, and how all burning will be treated with respect to
these restrictions.
If consensus is reached, the Forestry Fire Section Manager will finalize the
restrictions and implement them.
If consensus is not reached by any DNR member of the conference call, the
member(s) will confer with his/her section chief or division director regarding the
proposed restrictions. The Forestry Fire Section Manager will also confer with
the respective section chief or division director to reach agreement and then
implement the decision. If no agreement is reached, resolution will be sought at
the next level.
43
B. Information Dissemination
The same decision making process will be used for lifting the restrictions, or
making changes to the original restrictions.
Most restrictions on prescribed burning are short term and are implemented only
during periods of very high to extreme fire danger. During periods of restrictions
on prescribed burning, divisions with burn crew staff may make them available
for wildfire suppression when Forestry Division staff and contract personnel
resources are insufficient to manage wildfire activity. Other qualified resources
may also be made available depending upon workload and the severity of the
situation. Resources can be made available locally, regionally or for statewide
use. Regular and overtime spent on suppression by non-Forestry personnel is
fully reimbursable. More detailed information is available in the Wildfire
Protection Business Manual.
44
Appendix
Examples
• Completed MN DNR Prescribed Burn Unit Plan
• Completed Prescribed Fire Complexity Rating System Guide Worksheet
• Completed SafeCom
• Completed Resource Order/Purchase Order
• Crew Briefing Form Example
Blank Forms
• MN DNR Prescribed Unit Plan
• Prescribed Fire Complexity Rating System Guide Worksheet
• SafeCom
• Grant Of Permission To Burn Lands Not Administered By The Department Of
Natural Resources
• MN DNR Annual Prescribed Burn Accomplishment Report
• Resource Order
45
MN DNR Prescribed Burn Unit Plan NA-01990-04
Burn Unit Name and ID: Buffalo River F2003-107-01 EXAMPLE
County Management Unit Name
Name Lat/Long Sec Township Range Forty and Number Administrator
Clay 46 52 34.0 10 139 46 Buffalo River SP – Unit 12 Parks
96 28 41.5
Additional Burn Unit Descriptors (e.g. land management goals, overstory/understory, soil, water, other ownerships/administration
within burn area, other descriptors (power lines, roads etc))
Burn unit is a native northern mesic tall grass prairie within the bluestem prairie complex (type 3 fuels) and includes
pockets of wet mesic prairie and willow swales. A portion of the unit along the Buffalo River gallery forest is oak
woodland, moderately invaded by European buckthorn. The prairie is a nesting site for various grassland bird species
and may be utilized by several listed prairie obligate Lepidoptera species. Landscape mgmt goal is to maintain the
prairie to pre-settlement flora and fauna and this is one unit of 12 burn units within Buffalo River State Park. The site
has been invaded by box elder, buckthorn and other woody-stemmed species, which have been felled and stump
treated. It is bounded by mowed breaks on all sides, the Buffalo River to the northeast, native prairie (TNC) to the
south and a 3-foot ditch, power line and private land to the west with several houses. Turkey barns and Federal Hwy
10 are located north of unit across the river. The unit also has been heavily invaded with sweet clover, which is
stimulated by fire to germinate. Soils are clay silt.
Objectives (General Goals/Specific Prescription)
Site goals: maintain fire dependent prairie and oak woodland species and reduce exotic competitors.
Purpose of burn (measurable treatment objectives): Reduce fine dead fuels by 90% to stimulate prairie plant vigor and seed
production by 50% more than non-burn year, top kill 75% of buckthorn sprouts less than 0.5 inch in diameter, reduce
100 hr and 1000 hr cut wood by 25%.
Long term resource objectives: eliminate buckthorn, box elder from open prairie areas and buckthorn from woodland.
Reduce sweet clover cover by 75% by timing and sequence of burns (burn 2 years in a row, late fall/early spring
followed by late spring). Maintain historic burn regime of prairie (see unit plan).
Range of acceptable results: Fine fuel reduction 75%-100%, Sprout reduction 30-100%, and any reduction in 100/1000
cut fuels.
Timing of treatment (in calendar terms and phenological terms): For sweet clover reduction in prairie, 2003 late fall or
2004 early spring burn, 2005 late spring when sweet clover has sprouted and after green up. Repeat after two years if
needed for sweet clover control. For buckthorn control in oak woodland, fall burn or spring burn when enough fine
fuels are present to carry a ground fire and kill woody sprouts.
46
MN DNR Prescribed Burn Unit Plan NA-01990-04
Burn Unit Name and ID: Buffalo River F2003-107-01 EXAMPLE
Additional Considerations
Consideration Mitigation
Cultural site(s): unknown No digging into the ground
Natural Heritage Elements: Yes Prairie habitat for obligate insects and grassland birds has been divided into
units to avoid burning all nesting habitat at one time.
Adjacent Land Concerns: Yes Prescription keeps smoke from residences, HWY 10 and turkey barns. Contact
turkey barn operator prior to burn so he can adjust ventilation in barns. Notify
residents and TNC prior to burn.
Peat Soils or Wet Soils: Yes Flag and avoid driving in wet areas on unit and fire line. Rehab any ruts
Other: Park Users Trails restricted during burn, public information provided for by park
Personnel Needs
Burn Boss Level (Note: tied to the burn complexity level): MRXB2
Number Needed Position Names(Optional)
MRXB2 1 Chris Weir-Koetter
MRXB2(T) 1 Cindy Lueth
MRXI2 1 Corryn Trask
MFFT2 7
Equipment Needs
Number needed Equipment Type Source
Ignition/Firing Plan: (Include provisions for a test fire, firing pattern, firing device, preferred wind direction, hazards/special considerations):
1. Lighting method: drip torches
a) radio communications between ignition specialist and ignitors
b) all ignitors know where escape routes and safety zones are throughout the fire
c) all ignition only by direction of ignition specialist.
d) ignitors need to watch for sudden wind shifts and flare ups in these volatile fuels where 6’ flame upon ignition
are not uncommon. Be especially watchful in areas of tall native grass and sweet clover next to firing line.
Sweet clover may produce flare ups with 20’ flame.
e) Because wind will change direction unexpectedly here (counter to the prevailing winds) due to the topography,
headfires can change direction unexpectedly for short duration. Ignitors watch for this.
f) Ignitors will keep sleeves buttoned and shrouds and goggles on to protect from flames and heat.
2. Ignition specialist check burn unit perimeter for potential problem areas, fuel changes, weak line spots etc.
3. Anchor ignition in burn unit (usually corner) opposite current prevailing wind
4. Burn out secure line by igniting parallel to fire break in strips. This may take some time in fuel model 3 fuels. A
minimum of 35’ of black is necessary before allowing a head fire to run at the line. Black line needs to hold against
head fire flame lengths (which can be 20’+ under this prescription on this unit). General rule of thumb for grass models,
strip line only as thick as the black next to the strip (if there is 2’ of black, strip in 2’).
5. Strip across (side to side) frequently to minimize head fire intensity in order to
accomplish burn objectives.
47
MN DNR Prescribed Burn Unit Plan NA-01990-04
Burn Unit Name and ID: Buffalo River F2003-107-01 EXAMPLE
6. Cease lighting if spot fires occur and are under control. Cease lighting until burn boss gives the signal if escape.
7. Holding crews will pre-treat signs, power poles, etc, before running fire through them.
Holding Plan: (Staging area, holding lines, resources and positions): Staging area is in TNC parking lot south of the burn unit. One engine
and one gator will be staged for contingency and water supply there. Two engines will be used on the prevailing downwind side.
Engine 1 will lay wet line, wet down signs and supply ignition. Engine 2 will monitor and hold line after ignition and black lining.
Engine 3 will lay wet line on other line and supply ignition, gator will monitor and hold line after ignition. Gator will also pretreat
power poles before burning them out. Wet lines will be adjusted for changes in fuels. Heavier wet lines will be needed adjacent to
sweet clover as flame lengths and fire intensity will be more. Engines will pre treat 100 and 1000 hour fuels within 20 feet of fire
line prior to ignition. Resources may be adjusted in response to actual fire behavior.
Patrol/Mop-up Plan: (Mopup instructions, safety concerns, weather, contingency, rehab, patrol instructions): Mop up
all flaming and smoldering materials within 100 feet of the fire line. In woodland put out any flaming or smoldering
wood above ground in trees within 200 feet of fire line. Avoid cutting trees if possible, if not, consult with burn boss
prior to felling. Patrol until released by burn boss. Monitor weather and smoke conditions from fire line for smoke
dispersal. Watch out for falling snags when working in woodlands. Report any significant weather changes, smoke
dispersal changes or fire behavior to burn boss.
Contingency Plans
(Include secondary control lines, termination of ignition procedures, list of contingency resources and approximate response times, trigger points,
backup plan for equipment failure etc.): ): Secondary control lines are Buffalo River, township road and ag fields to the west, park trails
around burn units to the east, and county road to the south. If fire goes across the line, ignition will end, holding forces will take
action under direction of burn boss to anchor, flank and pinch escape while containing existing burn unit. If fire is not contained
by that action, holding forces will fall back to secondary lines and burn out under direction of burn boss. Contingency resources
may be drawn from: other park staff and engine (1/2 hr) TNC (1/2 hr) Detroit Lakes Forestry (1 hr) and Hawley Rural Fire (3/4 hr)
If conditions trigger continuing spot fires over the fire line, prescribed fire will be put out and mopped up. If fire line equipment
fails, rotate out with engine and gator in staging area and have one person work on the failing equipment if fixable in the field.
1
Distance and Direction from Smoke Sensitive Area(s) : Turkey barn ¼ mile north, residences 1/8 mile west, HWY 10 ¼ mile north, Fargo/Moorhead
and airport 10 miles west.
Smoke Management Plan (Describe how you intend to mitigate the effects of smoke on roads, firefighters, neighbors and other sensitive receptors.
Include safety considerations) : : Avoid smoke downwind to receptors by prescribed wind direction. Rotate firefighters out of smoke,
1
have good firebreaks and wet line so firefighters do not have to be in heavy smoke to hold, igniters use goggles, neck shrouds
when igniting. Monitor smoke over twp road and put “smoke over road” signs out or road control personnel (from park staff) if
needed (road is ½ mile south of unit). Burning under good dispersion conditions will minimize potential problems for neighboring
towns and airport. Duration of smoke is estimated at 5 hours.
Safety Plan
Safety zones and escape routes will change as the burn progresses and this will be
Identify safety zones, escape routes, communications plan:
monitored and communicated during the burn. In general, the 12’ wide mowed green breaks and park trails provide good escape
routes. Black areas are safety zones. Lights on for all engines. If backing up engines, have someone help back you up. Monitor
and communicate any whirlwind or fire devil activity. These have been observed in past burns in this unit and can possibly carry
fire across the line. Radio communication on the burn will be the parks channel 1. The park office will also monitor this channel.
1
Required for MN Pollution Control Agency reporting requirements
48
MN DNR Prescribed Burn Unit Plan NA-01990-04
Burn Unit Name and ID: Buffalo River F2003-107-01 EXAMPLE
Medical Plan
(In addition to notification of 9-1-1 dispatcher, identify nearest ground and air ambulance service, availability of paramedics, location of nearest
hospital, and list what first aid supplies are available at the burn site and what person or equipment they are assigned to): Nearest ground and
air
ambulance are located in Fargo, nearest hospital is Meritcare, Fargo, number is on contact list. First aid kits are located in Engines
1 and 3. Chris Weir-Koetter has a cell phone 218-766-9140. Cindy Lueth is trained Advanced First Aid/CPR and Outdoor
Emergency Care.
List of Attachments
Project Map X Fire Behavior Calculations Complexity Rating X
(optional)
Permission to Burn on non-DNR Land Road Control Plan (optional)
Risk/Safety Assessment (optional) Organization Chart (optional)
Signatures
Prepared by: Cindy Lueth Title: MRXB2T Date: 8/22/03
Reviewed by2: Chris Weir-Koetter Title: RXB2 Date: 9/10/03
Reviewed by3: Chris Weir-Koetter Title: NW Region Resource Specialist Sr. Date: 9/10/03
Approved by3: Title: Date:
2
All burn plans must be review and signed by a qualified Burn Boss 1 or 2 as specified in Commissioner’s Operational
Order 47
3
As per Division policy
49
MN DNR Prescribed Burn Unit Plan NA-01990-04
Burn Unit Name and ID: Buffalo River F2003-107-01 EXAMPLE
Go/No Go Checklist
x ALL burn prescription elements met. x ALL personnel have the required PPE with them.
ALL smoke management specifications met. ALL pre-burn considerations (line preparation)
x x
identified in the plan addressed.
ALL current and projected fire weather forecasts ALL the required notifications been made.
x x
have been obtained and are favorable. (landowners, media, cooperators, sheriff etc)
ALL planned operations personnel and equipment ALL permits and approvals been obtained.
x x
on-site, available and operational. (open burning permit, Non-DNR land permission)
APPROPRIATE contingency resources have been ALL on-site holding forces adequate for
x x
confirmed and are available containment under the expected conditions.
ALL personnel briefed on the burn objectives, their Burn Boss believes the burn can be carried out
x assignment, safety hazards, escape routes, x according to the Prescribed Burn Unit Plan and will
communications and contingency plan. meet the planned objectives.
50
Post Burn Observations
Fine fuels were burned completely. Standing heavy sweet clover burned very hot with 20’ flame length. Oak
woodland burned at 6”-1’ flame length. The backing fire may have been more effective at killing buckthorn sprouts, but
did not burn standing oak, scorch was minimal. All sprouts that the fire ran through looked wilted, however there were
a few patches (< 10 % buckthorn) that did not carry the fire and will need to be treated. Very little of the 1000 hour cut
fuels were burned, and approx 25% of 100 hour fuels were consumed.
The head fire through the oak was observed to be faster than what was predicted by BEHAVE, but was within
prescription.
4 whirlwinds were observed in the SW corner of the unit, although they did not carry fire across the line. Along the
east fire break where the sweet clover was heavy along the break, fire intensity was a problem for ignition and holding
and progress was slowed by the fuels. One spot fire occurred when sweet clover ignited and laid flame over the line,
igniting a 4” cut log.
This was a good complexity and size burn for MRXB2 Training.
Recommendations
Objectives were met in this Rx burn. An assessment should be made after greenup on buckthorn kill and effects on
sweet clover regeneration. Plan for the following burn to achieve sweet clover control.
51
52
Prescribed Fire Complexity Rating System Guide Worksheet
Instructions: This worksheet is designed to used with the Prescribed Fire Complexity Rating descriptors on
Page 6.
Complexity elements:
53
Potential Rationale
Consequences
Preliminary Rating: A good level of coordination is needed to avoid running fire at
opposite holding line.
Low Moderate High
Final Rating: No change.
3. Off-Site Values
Risk Rationale
Preliminary Rating: Park visitors are likely to be present in the state park.
54
4. On-Site Values
Risk Rationale
Preliminary Rating: Power line runs through the unit.
5. Fire Behavior
Risk Rationale
Preliminary Rating: Fuels are flashy and vary in loading and arrangement along the
fireline. Whirlwinds are likely in this unit.
Low Moderate High
Final Rating: No change.
55
Technical Difficulty Rationale
Preliminary Rating: Burn Boss and Ignition Specialist need to assess and respond to
changes in fire behavior
Low Moderate High
Final Rating: No change.
6. Management Organization
Risk Rationale
Preliminary Rating: Burn Boss and Ignition Specialist (plus lighters and holders)
needed to implement the Rx fire.
Low Moderate High
Final Rating: No change.
56
Potential Consequences Rationale
Preliminary Rating: Prescribed burning in this area is an established program of many
years. An unexpected event of small scale would not attract much
Low Moderate High attention.
Final Rating: No change.
57
9. Constraints
Risk Rationale
Preliminary Rating: Few constraints on access, water sources, firelines, etc. No digging
in fireline, but it is not needed.
Low Moderate High
Final Rating: No change.
10. Safety
Risk Rationale
Preliminary Rating: Safety issues are easily identified and mitigated and easily
addressed in briefings.
Low Moderate High
Final Rating: No change.
58
Preliminary Rating: LCES should be adequate.
59
Preliminary Rating: NA
60
14. Smoke Management
Risk Rationale
Preliminary Rating: Smoke into turkey barns could result in loss of high value crop of
birds.
Low Moderate High Smoke over Hwy 10 could cause traffic problems.
Final Rating: Mitigate by following wind direction prescription.
Accept change as per mitigation.
Low Moderate High
Potential Consequences Rationale
Preliminary Rating: Smoke into turkey barns could result in loss of high value crop of
birds. Smoke over Hwy 10 could cause accidents.
Low Moderate High
Final Rating: Mitigate by following wind direction prescription.
61
COMPLEXITY RATING SUMMARY
RATIONALE:
Approved by: Chris Weir-Koetter , NW Region Parks Resource Specialist Sr. Date: 12-12-03
(Agency Administrator)
62
Reported By (Optional)
Firefighter knelt down to adjust drip torch near the right front fender of a Type 6 engine during
lighting and holding operation. Engine operator did not see the firefighter and started to move the
engine forward. Firefighter moved out of the way and was not injured.
LESSONS LEARNED: Please suggest what actions could be taken to prevent this from occurring again.
Be aware of your surroundings. Work on equipment away from traffic. Let engine operators know
where you are. Engine operators – be aware of and in communication with those around you.
This form is used to report any condition, observance, act, maintenance problem, or circumstance which has potential to cause a
safety related mishap.
63
RESOURCE ORDER INITIAL 2. INCIDENT/PROJECT NAME 3. INCIDENT/PROJECT ORDER NUMBER 4. OFFICE REFERENCE NUMBER
DATE/TIME
4/5/2004 Troy Lake Prescribed Burn For non-Forestry Division this
SUPPLIES 1300 EXAMPLE ONLY number is assigned By MIFC
INCIDENT/PROJECT ORDER NUMBER
5. DESCRIPTIVE LOCATION/RESPONSE AREA 6. TWN RNG Base MDM 8. INCIDENT BASE/PHONE NUMBER 9. JURISDICTION/AGENCY
SEC.
MN DNR Wildlife MN-MNS
1200 Minnesota Ave S. 7. MAP REFERENCE
218-927-6915
10. ORDERING OFFICE
Aitkin MN 56431 Attn Dave Dickey
MNS Wildlife
11. AIRCRAFT INFORMATION LAT. LONG.
BEARING DISTANCE BASE OR OMNI AIR CONTACT FREQUENCY Ground Contact FREQUENCY RELOAD BASE OTHER AIRCRAFT/HAZARDS
ICS 259-13
64
RESOURCE ORDER INITIAL 2. INCIDENT/PROJECT NAME 3. INCIDENT/PROJECT ORDER NUMBER 4. OFFICE REFERENCE NUMBER
DATE/TIME
4/5/2004 Troy Lake Prescribed Burn For non-Forestry Division this
EQUIPMENT 1300 EXAMPLE ONLY number is assigned By MIFC
INCIDENT/PROJECT ORDER NUMBER
5. DESCRIPTIVE LOCATION/RESPONSE AREA 6. TWN RNG Base MDM 8. INCIDENT BASE/PHONE NUMBER 9. JURISDICTION/AGENCY
SEC.
MN-MNS
MN DNR Wildlife 218-927-6915
7. MAP REFERENCE 10. ORDERING OFFICE
1200 Minnesota Ave S. Attn Dave Dickey
Aitkin MN 56431 MNS Wildlife
11. AIRCRAFT INFORMATION LAT. LONG.
BEARING DISTANCE BASE OR OMNI AIR CONTACT FREQUENCY Ground Contact FREQUENCY RELOAD BASE OTHER AIRCRAFT/HAZARDS
65
VENDOR SHIP TO
C. NAME NAME
NE Interagency Fire Cache MN DNR Wildlife Attn Dave
ADDRESS ADDRESS STATE OF MINNESOTA
402 S.E. 11th Street 1200 Minnesota Ave S.
Department Purchase Order
CITY, STATE ZIP CITY, STATE ZIP Fund FY Agency Entry Loc Org/Sub Obj
Grand Rapids MN 55744 Aitkin MN 56431
REMIT TO BILL TO Appr. Activity Job/Project Number Rept Cat
D. NAME E. NAME
Same as above Same as above MAPS Purchase Order Number Vendor Number
ADDRESS ADDRESS
Bill To: Ship To:
CITY, STATE ZIP CITY, STATE ZIP
Order Received Date Invoice Received Date Invoice Number
This DPO is issued and accepted with the
understanding that the authorized agency shall call
for bids and otherwise proceed as required in Minn. Price Contract Number:
Stat. 16C
You must provide your Federal Employer Tax ID or Social Security number and your Minnesota Tax ID number as required by
Is the vendor’s Federal Employer Tax ID number or Social Security Yes Minn. Stat. 270.66. This information may be used in the enforcement of federal and state laws. Supplying these numbers could
Number and Minnesota Tax ID number on File? result in action to collect delinquent tax returns and delinquent uncontested tax liabilities from you. Failure to supply these numbers
No could preclude you from being paid for products/services purchased. These numbers will be available to federal and state tax
authorities and personnel involved in the payment of state obligations.
Line # Commodity Code Units Description Unit Unit Price Disc % Env. Total Price
Ordered Code
001 NFES 1295 4 Gloves medium pr 12.04 48 16
002 NFES 1296 5 Gloves large pr 12.04 60 02
003 NFES 1027 10 Earplugs, foam disposable pg 0.11 1 10
004 NFES 0037 10 Canteen, 1 quart disposable w/o cover ea 0.35 3 50
Shipping - will pick up 0 00
Total 112 78
EXAMPLE ONLY !!!!!! Please use a Purchase
Order for consumable items or items that will not be
returned to the cache.
Ordered by: Date Instructions to Vendor: Vendor Notice:
/s/ Your name here 1. Submit invoice to the “Bill To” shown 1. This purchase order incorporates by I certify that sufficient funds are encumbered
on the order. reference all terms conditions and specifications in the appropriation from which this purchase
2. Show the purchase order number on invoice of the contract, the RFP/RFB and vendor’s is to be made.
and all tags, packages and correspondence. response. In event of a conflict in terms, the
3. Invoicing must matc h line items on DPO order of precedence shall be: first, this DPO;
Received by: Date
4. DO NOT CHARGE SALES TAX. The State of
second, the contract; third, the RFP/RFB; and
Minnesota holds a Direct Pay Permit issued July 1,
1995, and pays tax directly to the Dept. of Revenue. fourth, the vendor’s response.
Dept. Authorized Signature Date
5. Discount time commences upon acceptance 2. All deliveries hereunder shall comply with all
applicable State of Minnesota and Federal laws.
66
Prescribed Burn Briefing Outline – EXAMPLE
I. Burn Organization
A. Organizational Chart/Personnel Assignments
B. Equipment Assignments
C. Other Resources
II. Burn Objectives
III. Description of Burn Area
A. Review Map of Burn/Topographical Features/Acreage
B. Values at Risk
C. Problem Areas
D. Fuel Type (Both Inside and Outside the Burn Unit)
E. Roads/Access
F. Water Sources
G. Natural/Manmade Barriers
IV. Expected Weather
A. Wind Direction and Speed
B. Relative Humidity
C. Temperature
D. Fuel Moisture
E. Atmospheric Stability
F. Predicted Changes
V. Communications
A. Procedures
B. Frequencies/Channels
1. Burn Crew
2. Dispatch
3. Cooperators
4. Others
VI. Firing Sequence
A. Test Burn
B. Ignition Equipment (Type, Number, Etc.)
C. Pattern and Sequence of Firing (Map)
VII. Contingency Plan
A. Slop Over vs. Escape
B. Assignments/Organizational Chart
C. Strategy
D. Tactics
VIII.Safety
A. Inspect Personal Protective Equipment
B. Lookouts, Escape Routes and Safety Zones
C. Hazards (Footing, Natural, Man made, Smoke [visibility], etc.)
D. Potential Problems
E. Other (Air Operations, Flammable Fuel Handling, Etc.)
F. Crew physical fitness - expectations
67
MN DNR Prescribed Burn Unit Plan NA-01990-04
Burn Unit Name and ID:
County Management Unit Name
Name Lat/Long Sec Township Range Forty and Number Administrator
Additional Burn Unit Descriptors (e.g. land management goals, overstory/understory, soil, water, other ownerships/administration
within burn area, other descriptors (power lines, roads etc))
Objectives
Purpose of burn (measurable treatment objectives):
Long term resource objectives:
Range of acceptable results:
Timing of treatment (in calendar terms and phenological terms):
Additional Considerations
Consideration Mitigation
Cultural site(s):
Natural Heritage Elements:
Adjacent Land Concerns:
Peat Soils or Wet Soils:
Other:
68
MN DNR Prescribed Burn Unit Plan NA-01990-04
Burn Unit Name and ID:
Personnel Needs
Burn Boss Level (Note: tied to the burn complexity level):
Number Needed Position Names(Optional)
Equipment Needs
Number needed Equipment Type Source
Operations Plans
Pre-burn Site Preparation Plan:
Ignition/Firing Plan: (Include provisions for a test fire, firing pattern, firing device, preferred wind direction, hazards/special
considerations):
Patrol/Mop-up Plan: (Mopup instructions, safety concerns, weather, contingency, rehab, patrol instructions):
Contingency Plans
(Include secondary control lines, termination of ignition procedures, list of contingency resources and approximate response times, trigger points,
backup plan for equipment failure etc.):
1
Distance and Direction from Smoke Sensitive Area(s) :
Smoke Management Plan (Describe how you intend to mitigate the effects of smoke on roads, firefighters, neighbors and other sensitive receptors.
1
Include safety considerations) :
Safety Plan
Identify safety zones, escape routes, communications plan:
Medical Plan
(In addition to notification of 9-1-1 dispatcher, identify nearest ground and air ambulance service, availability of paramedics, location of nearest
hospital, and list what first aid supplies are available at the burn site and what person or equipment they are assigned to):
List of Attachments
Project Map Fire Behavior Calculations
(optional)
Permission to Burn on non-DNR Land Road Control Plan (optional)
Risk/Safety Assessment (optional) Organization Chart (optional)
Signatures
Prepared by: Qualification Title: Date:
Reviewed by2: Qualification Title: Date:
Reviewed by3: Title: Date:
Approved by3: Title: Date:
1
Required for MN Pollution Control Agency reporting requirements
2
All burn plans must be reviewed and signed by a qualified Burn Boss 1 or 2 as specified by Commissioner’s Operational Order 47
3
As per Division policy
69
MN DNR Prescribed Burn Unit Plan NA-01990-04
Burn Unit Name and ID:
Go/No Go Checklist
ALL burn prescription elements met. ALL personnel have the required PPE with them.
ALL smoke management specifications met. ALL pre-burn considerations (line preparation)
identified in the plan addressed.
ALL current and projected fire weather forecasts ALL the required notifications been made.
have been obtained and are favorable. (landowners, media, cooperators, sheriff etc)
ALL planned operations personnel and equipment ALL permits and approvals been obtained.
on-site, available and operational. (open burning permit, Non-DNR land permission)
APPROPRIATE contingency resources have been ALL on-site holding forces adequate for
confirmed and are available containment under the expected conditions.
ALL personnel briefed on the burn objectives, their Burn Boss believes the burn can be carried out
assignment, safety hazards, escape routes, according to the Prescribed Burn Unit Plan and will
communications and contingency plan. meet the planned objectives.
Recommendations
70
Prescribed Fire Complexity Rating System Guide Worksheet
Instructions: This worksheet is designed to used with the Prescribed Fire Complexity Rating descriptors on
Page 6.
Complexity elements:
71
Potential Rationale
Consequences
Preliminary Rating:
3. Off-Site Values
Risk Rationale
Preliminary Rating:
72
4. On-Site Values
Risk Rationale
Preliminary Rating:
5. Fire Behavior
Risk Rationale
Preliminary Rating:
73
Final Rating:
6. Management Organization
Risk Rationale
Preliminary Rating:
74
Final Rating:
10. Safety
Risk Rationale
Preliminary Rating:
76
Preliminary Rating:
77
Preliminary Rating:
78
14. Smoke Management
Risk Rationale
Preliminary Rating:
79
COMPLEXITY RATING SUMMARY
RATIONALE:
80
Reported By (Optional)
LESSONS LEARNED: Please suggest what actions could be taken to prevent this from occurring again.
This form is used to report any condition, observance, act, maintenance problem, or circumstance which has potential to cause a
safety related mishap.
81
NA-1973
GRANT OF PERMISSION TO BURN LANDS
NOT ADMINISTERED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
Name of Owner/Administrating Agency Address (No. & Street, RFD, Box No., City, State, Zip Code)
Name of Owner/Administrating Agency Address (No. & Street, RFD, Box No., City State, Zip Code)
Name of Owner/Administrating Agency Address (No. & Street, RFD, Box No., City, State, Zip Code)
PERMISSION IS HEREBY GRANTED by the landowner or landowners (Owner) whose signature appears below to the State
of Minnesota, Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and its authorized agents, to enter onto the lands as described above and
shown on the attached project map which is made part of this document, and burn the vegetation in order to obtain benefits in the
public interest such as improved wildlife habitat, restoration and maintenance of valued ecosystems, control of pests and diseases,
wildfire hazard reduction and other public-interest benefits.
1. DNR will burn only in accordance with DNR’s prescribed burn plan.
2. DNR shall not charge Owner for the cost of burning Owner’s lands.
3. Owner certifies that Owner has inspected the above-described lands and that there are no building or personal
property on these lands which Owner does not desire to be burned.
4. DNR shall assume all liability to third parties to the extent authorized by the Minnesota Tort Claims Act.
5. Each party agrees that it will be responsible for its own acts and omissions and the results thereof to the extent
authorized by law and shall not be responsible for the acts of the other party and the results thereof. The State’s
liability shall be governed by the provisions of the Minnesota Tort Claims Act, Minn. Stat. Section 3.736, and
other applicable law.
Owner grants permission being fully advised by DNR of the risks of prescribed burning.
Region: _____________
On burns with multiple fuel types, divide out only the significant acreages.
Include burn acres on other agency lands only if the DNR provided the prescribed fire burn boss.
83
RESOURCE ORDER INITIAL 2. INCIDENT/PROJECT NAME 3. INCIDENT/PROJECT ORDER NUMBER 4. OFFICE REFERENCE NUMBER
DATE/TIME
INCIDENT/PROJECT ORDER NUMBER
5. DESCRIPTIVE LOCATION/RESPONSE AREA 6. TWN RNG Base MDM 8. INCIDENT BASE/PHONE NUMBER 9. JURISDICTION/AGENCY
SEC.
85
MNICS DAILY PRESCRIBED BURN NOTICE
For DNR Prescribed Burns: When DNR Forestry Areas are contacted to activate a burning permit for a prescribed fire, the following information should be
collected. This information should be faxed or called into MIFC (attention Intel Desk) by 1200. Fax number is 218-327-4528
Planned Agency Burn Name Fuel Types Planned Legal Lat/Long Planned Actual Smoke
Date and UNIT and (1-13) Acres Description Duration Acres Complaints
(e.g. MNS- Section- Completed on Burn
Burn ID Township- **
WLF) Number ***
Range
** Please note that the column “Actual Acres Completed” only needs to be completed if completed acres are significantly different than planned acres.
*** The Minnesota Smoke Management Plan requires that all smoke complaints from prescribed fires are tracked and reported to the Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency.
87
Escaped Prescribed Burn Report
Background (description of the planned burn, copy of the Prescribed Burn Unit
Plan and Report and firing plan)
Burn Events (list factors leading up to and reason for escape, i.e. equipment
malfunction, lack of engines, personnel action, fire behavior, weather change):
Attach copies of Prescribed Burn Unit Plan, Prescribed Burn Unit Report and map
Description of Fire Behavior Fuel Models
Fuel Model Typical Fuel Fuel Bed Moisture of
Complex Fuel Loading in tons per acre Depth in Extinction
feet Dead Fuels
1 hour 10 hours 100 hours Live
Table from “Aids to Determining Fuel Models for Estimating Fire Behavior” by Hal E.
Anderson. April 1992 National Wildfire Coordinating Group NFES 1574.
89
Minnesota’s Native Plant Community Classification:
System Groups, Systems and Classes as of June 18, 2003
90
B. Wetland Forests
Floodplain Forest System
FFn57 Northern Terrace Forest
FFn67 Northern Floodplain Forest
91
C. Upland Grasslands, Shrublands, and Sparse Vegetation
Cliff/Talus System
CTn11 Northern Dry Cliff
CTn12 Northern Open Talus
CTn24 Northern Scrub Talus
CTn32 Northern Mesic Cliff
CTn42 Northern Wet Cliff
92
D. Wetland Grasslands, Shrublands and Marshes
Acid Peatland System
APn90 Northern Open Bog
APn91 Northern Poor Fen
Marsh System
MRn83 Northern Mixed Cattail Marsh
MRn93 Northern Bulrush-Spikerush Marsh
93
Helpful Internet Addresses
94