TheImprovement ofTropical and Subtropical Rangelands

REHABILn'ATlON TEOHNIQUES 149
years (Pase and Lindenmuth, 1971). Establishing a good grUII cover
early and subsequent conservative management virtually usure soil
stability and low sediment yields on moderate slopes.
Effects on Wildlife
Well-planned prescribed burns may benefit wildlife. By maintaining
a variety ofvegetation, including brush islands ofvarious sizes
and ages, a highly diverse habitat can be provided. Habitat diversity
encourages species diversity. Leaving shrubby areas of adequate size
as escape cover and providing a number of serial stages of post-burn
vegetation generally benefit both game and nongame wildlife (Bock
et al., 1976).
Aesthetics
People with a limited understanding of the role of fire in the
development of natural communities see a newly burned forest or
range area as land management at its wont. They find the bare,
blackened soil with occasional burned stubs of shrubs profoundly
disturbing (figures 7-3a and 7-3b). However, like a plowed field
or a homesite under construction, the disturbance does not last
long. From a positive point of view, many serial plant communities,
including some of the most colorful, exist only during the brief postfire
recovery period; without fire, these communities would disappear
forever (Arizona Interagency Range Committee, 1977).
Planning for Burning
The steps taken to develop a prescribed burn are planning, preparation,
burning, and post-burn management. Technically qualified
help must be available. Participation and cooperation of technical
help with all interested persons adds to adequate planning. Planning
provides for adequate preparation, which in turn promotes a successful
burn. Burning should not be done unless planning indicates
it is the most practical method in comparison with other management
objectives or brush treatment methods. The area must have
the potential to be improved. The costs of burning, such as labor,
equipment use, supplies, and short-term loss of forage, should be
considered. The size and shape of the area should be such that burning
can be completed within the allotted time. In the United States,