Soil Erosion Control after Wildfire

The potential for severe soil erosion exists after a wildfire because as a fire burns it destroys plant material and the litter layer. Shrubs, forbs, grasses, trees, and the litter layer break up the intensity of severe rainstorms. Plant roots stabilize the soil, and stems and leaves slow the water to give it time to percolate into the soil profile. Fire can destroy this soil protection. There are several steps to take to reduce the amount of soil erosion. A landowner, using common household tools and materials, can accomplish most of these methods in the aftermath of a wildfire. More specific information on how to implement the soil erosion control techniques that follow can be found by accessing the electronic links found in the NRCS Fire Recovery Tips section at the end of this document.

Revised 12/2011. Originally published: 2002.