How much rain is enough?

ehunter · 08-18-2008, 11:35 AM

I am curious if some one can explain at what point does fire danger really fall off? I work and live in Hillsboro and we have had some decent showers today but? I went home at lunch and my drive way is lined with arvividas (sp) and they were bone dry underneath coming back to work I noticed a lot of dry dirt under other tree's. So how much moisture does it take to get past the worry state? How much moisture do trees take in though their leaves or needles'?

Rank Amateur · 08-18-2008, 11:45 AM

The state has a fuel moisture index system they use, it is an actual measurement and along with other factors like the winds, temperature, humidity, ect they create the fire level indicators used to regulate forest practices. Unfortunately, this fire level does not seem to be used by the forest land owners in regards to access by the public on their lands. I feel where A&H funds are provided in any form to these landowners that they should be bound to the state fire closure levels. We are simply seeing too much closures at a low level or an unwillingness to recind closures when the levels fall back for a week or two and then go back up. Once the A&H funded programs are active for the year, the landowners should be tied to an independent agency for the closure of the lands. Having access only during the rainy season is not what these funded programs are about.

ehunter · 08-18-2008, 01:28 PM

Well Rank you hit on the head I was wondering how you can have a fire level of 2 or 1 and still be closed to walk in?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rank Amateur

The state has a fuel moisture index system they use, it is an actual measurement and along with other factors like the winds, temperature, humidity, ect they create the fire level indicators used to regulate forest practices. Unfortunately, this fire level does not seem to be used by the forest land owners in regards to access by the public on their lands. I feel where A&H funds are provided in any form to these landowners that they should be bound to the state fire closure levels. We are simply seeing too much closures at a low level or an unwillingness to recind closures when the levels fall back for a week or two and then go back up. Once the A&H funded programs are active for the year, the landowners should be tied to an independent agency for the closure of the lands. Having access only during the rainy season is not what these funded programs are about.

gottafish · 08-18-2008, 02:24 PM

They get enough rain the day before rifle season

Eagleclaw · 08-18-2008, 02:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gottafish

They get enough rain the day before rifle season

amen even if it hasn't rained in months.. funny how that happens every year

ehunter · 08-18-2008, 02:48 PM

Come on guys this was a serious question but have a point

gottafish · 08-18-2008, 03:46 PM

Lloyd, I honestly dont think it has a thing to due with Rain fall. the gal at the forest service office said that they are going to open everything up to wood cutting on sept 30th. Its now a schedualed event.

Dosent have much to do with the moisture. Im sure the save thing goes on in the hunting woods. Its cost effective.

nehalemguy · 08-18-2008, 04:02 PM

ehunter,

The problem is that during the summer months of August/September it is possible to get 1/2-3/4" evaporation rate on a good hot day. The impending storm is predicted to dump up to 2" rain but once things warm up again, which of course they will, we will quickly loose any moisture and be right back to the tinder dry conditions again in a 3-6 day period. I think what many forrest managers look for is a combination moisture, higher humidity, and most importantly, lower average temperatures before they feel comfortable releasing the masses into the woods.

E

ehunter · 08-18-2008, 05:22 PM

Rich I understand what your saying, but nehalemguy answered my question that is what I fear I seen the temps back into the 90's on Saturday crudola but this will help I hope...

Quote:

Originally Posted by nehalemguy

ehunter,

The problem is that during the summer months of August/September it is possible to get 1/2-3/4" evaporation rate on a good hot day. The impending storm is predicted to dump up to 2" rain but once things warm up again, which of course they will, we will quickly loose any moisture and be right back to the tinder dry conditions again in a 3-6 day period. I think what many forrest managers look for is a combination moisture, higher humidity, and most importantly, lower average temperatures before they feel comfortable releasing the masses into the woods.

E

QH's Paw · 08-19-2008, 04:31 AM

Besides the rain and amount, you have to consider the rate. What I mean is, if it rains a lot during a short period there will be more run off (that doesn't help). If it rains a little but over a prolonged period with lower temps it is better. The water has to have time to make a difference before it runs off or evaporates. This weather pattern right now is more promising then one day and 2" of rain. Right now, it is staying overcast and small period of drizzle. If only there were a way to continue this pattern until the opener of bow season.