Workshops are being held in May and June across central Nebraska focusing on making properties ‘fire smart’. Sponsored by Nebraska Extension, each workshop will detail for attendees how they can create a fire-smart landscape to reduce the risk of damage to their property if fires happen.
Fire Smart Landscaping Program dates:
- May 13 in Burwell at the Garfield County Courthouse, 6 PM. RSVP by May 10 by calling 308-346-4200
- May 19 in Kearney at the Buffalo County Extension Office, 6:30 PM. RSVP by calling 308-236-1235
- June 9 in Long Pine, 6:30 PM (details TBA)
Elizabeth Exstrom, a horticulture, landscape, and environmental systems educator with Nebraska Extension will lead the workshops.
Each workshop points to defensible spaces, fire-conscious planning, and thoughtful landscape management as playing crucial roles in helping protect homes from wildfire.
Practical advice that will be expanded on at the workshops include:
- Maintaining a fire smart landscape. Regularly remove any dead, dry plants, branches, or leaves before fire season starts. Make sure to clear combustible debris from around decks and under eaves, and be mindful of equipment use in dry conditions as sparks can be a hazard.
- Understanding wildfire behavior. Wildfires behave according to three key factors: fuels, weather, and topography. Of these, fuel is the only one humans can influence.
- Choosing fire-resistant plants. Certain plant traits can increase their flammability, including tall or open growth forms, low moisture levels, and high oil or resin content. Consider how and where each plant is placed and how it will be managed, rather than focusing on its flammability alone.
