Soil Binder Use During Fire Suppression Operations
Summary
SCH Number
2010038079
Public Agency
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
(CAL FIRE)
Document Title
Soil Binder Use During Fire Suppression Operations
Document Type
NOE - Notice of Exemption
Received
Posted
3/8/2010
Document Description
Helicopters are often employed in controlling wildland fires to deliver suppression chemicals and to transport personnel and materials. Ideally, airports and large areas of concrete and pavement are the first choice to set up the helibases from which these aircraft operate. However, large fields and open wildland areas are often used due to their proximity to the fire. A helicopter's rotor wash causes a downdraft, producing large amounts of dust. Dust, if not abated, produces a hazardous condition called "brown out" wherein a pilot's vision may be impaired, potentially resulting in damage to the helicopter or a castastrophic crash.
Contact Information
Name
Dan Reese
Agency Name
Forestry and Fire Protection, Board of
Contact Types
Lead/Public Agency
Phone
Location
Regions
Statewide
Notice of Exemption
Exempt Status
Categorical Exemption
Type, Section or Code
15330 - Class 30
Reasons for Exemption
Cal Fire's use of soil binders will stabilize soils, thereby providing increased safety and efficiency during fire fighting operations while protecting other natural resources from airborne dust.
Disclaimer: The document was originally posted before CEQAnet had the capability to host attachments for the public. To obtain the original attachments for this document, please contact the lead agency at the contact information listed above. You may also contact the OPR via email at state.clearinghouse@opr.ca.gov or via phone at (916) 445-0613.