55 



land witli sand and debris, the loss of irrigation water 

 at a season when it is most needed, and the decrease of 

 timber and forage producing capacity due to loss of sofl. 

 from the upper slopes. When slopes are denuded the loss 

 of water for power and irrigeition is very evident. Foj*- 

 est cover on steep slopes control^i the surface fun-off 

 and tends to delay the melting of, snow. Jhe main factor 

 in regulating the run-off is the litter and humus layer 

 which acts as a sponge in retaining the precipitation, 

 Frequent fires will destroy this layer and erosion will 

 take place. At .high elevations where the soil is direct- 

 ly exposed, wind may be an important factor along with 

 water in transporting the soil. 



Cost of Light Burning ^ 



Even though Light Burning afforded the protection 

 that the Light Burning advocates elaim, the excessive 

 costs necessary to practice it, would prevent its ap- 

 plicant ion over extensive areas. To burn the area but 

 once does not elimina^ie the fire hazard on most areas. 

 This is due to the fact that lower branches and needles 

 of reproduction, and shrubs are killed. By. the next 

 season, this dead material has to a large extent, fallen 

 to the ground, new shoots spring up profusely from the 

 shrubs, and the debris upon the ground is of sufficient 

 quantity to form a damaging fire if ignited. Therefor^ 

 on an area to ,be protected by Light Burning, it is prol> 



