The most critical period for recovery
is the first two years following
a fire; however, the sooner steps
are taken to reduce runoff and the
potential for erosion, the better. A
number of measures can lower the
soil erosion hazard and protect the
land’s productivity and water quality.
A combination of measures is
often recommended when appropriate
or feasible. BAER (Burned-Area
Emergency Rehabilitation) treatments
that provide immediate ground cover
are the most effective in reducing
post-fire runoff and erosion rates.