Wildland Firefighting Practice Exam

Fuel quantities can range significantly; what is the range for grass types?

1. 1 to 50 tons per acre

2. 0.5 to 10 tons per acre

3. 1 to 100 tons per acre

4. 2 to 45 tons per acre

The correct answer is: 1 to 50 tons per acre

The correct range for grass fuel types typically falls between 0.5 to 10 tons per acre. This range takes into account the density and amount of grass fuel available in various ecosystems, allowing for effective fire management and behavior predictions. Grasslands, which are characterized by low shrubs and herbaceous plants, accumulate biomass primarily from grasses. In these ecosystems, the amount of accumulated fuel can vary widely depending on environmental factors such as rainfall, soil quality, and seasonal conditions. While 1 to 50 tons per acre may seem plausible, it is important to understand that this figure is more representative of a broader spectrum that includes heavier fuel types such as shrubs or timber, rather than grasslands specifically. Thus, understanding the distinctions in fuel types is crucial for effective wildland fire suppression planning and execution without overestimating the fuel availability.