Abstract
Describes a model for predicting moisture content of fine fuels for use with the BEHAVE fire behavior and fuel modeling system. The model is intended to meet the need for more accurate predictions of fine fuel moisture, particularly in northern conifer stands and on days following rain. The model is based on the Canadian Fine Fuel Moisture Code (FFMC), modified to account for solar heating of fuels and to predict diurnal trends in fine fuel moisture. The model may be initiated without extensive data on prior weather. When compared to the FFMC and the fire behavior officers' procedures, the new model gave consistently better predictions over the complete range of fuel conditions.
Keywords
fuel moisture,
fine fuels,
model,
fire behavior,
diurnal,
solar,
shade
Citation
Rothermel, Richard C.; Wilson, Ralph A.; Morris, Glen A.; Sackett, Stephen S. 1986. Modeling moisture content of fine dead wildland fuels: Input to the BEHAVE fire prediction system. Research Paper INT-359. Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Intermountain Research Station. 61 p.
