Representatives Mike Hanna (D-Clinton) and Gary Haluska (D-Cambria) announced this week they plan to introduce legislation that would regulate prescribed burning practices in Pennsylvania.

Prescribed burning, which is the skilled application of fire to existing vegetative fuels under planned and controlled conditions, is used to reduce hazardous fuel buildups, maintain and provide wildlife habitats, and control forest diseases and pests.

The legislation would establish standards for the safe use of controlled burning and establish a training program for prescribed burn managers and people under their supervision.

"Prescribed burning can benefit public safety, especially when there are hazardous amounts of vegetation that can lead to wildfires," Rep. Hanna said. "This legislation would provide an effective tool for land management and habitat preservation."

The legislation would also provide for limited liability exposure for people performing prescribed burns.

Link: Prescribed Fire Helps Restore Oak and Pitch Pine Forests in PA

7/11/2008