FUEL MODEL:

Either Fuel Model 8 or Fuel Model 9 could represent the fire behavior of this stage.  As Fuel Model 8, fire burns slowly along the surface with low flame lengths.  Only under conditions of severe weather and high concentrations of fuel do the fuels pose fire hazards.  As Fuel Model 9, fire spreads quickly primarily through the surface litter such as in concentrations of dead, dry leaves.  Torching, crowning and spotting are possible when strong winds and high concentrations of dead-down woody materials are encountered (Anderson, 1982).  Fire intensity in this community would be low to moderate, depending on drought conditions.  The fire severity would be low.

TYPICAL FIRE BEHAVIOR:

[Using FBPS: FM 8/9, FFM 8, LFM 100, MFW 5 - 10]
(Refer to page 32)

DESIRED STAGE:

This single stage community is in the condition at which basin swamp communities are to be maintained.

RESTORATION/MANAGEMENT PROTOCOL

• Restoration Phase:
  • No restoration required.
• Maintenance/Management Phase:
  • Low intensity, infrequent prescribed burns should be conducted.
• Special Management Concerns:
  • Keep fire out of this community during extreme drought to avoid muck fires.

EEL SITES WHERE BASIN SWAMP COMMUNITY OCCURS

• Pine Island Conservation Area
• Valkaria Scrub
• Malabar Scrub Sanctuary