3H

These heavily forested counties mostly fall within the southeastern United States in Coastal Plain and Piedmont. There is small federal and state ownership, and extensive private industry. This area is characterized by significant Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) and is more urbanized than the national average.

There is a history of prescribed fire, but conflicts may arise due to the proximity of the human population.

Example of a Typical County — Jones County, North Carolina: This rural county includes longleaf pine in the Croatan National Forest and Hofmann State Forest.

National Priorities

Vegetation and Fuels High
Homes, Communities and Values at Risk High
Human-Caused Ignitions Moderate
Effective and Efficient Response:
There is moderate risk of large wildfires, less potential for resource benefits.

Policy Options and Opportunities

Vegetation and Fuels
These counties have a history of using prescribed fire and could expand or maintain use of this fuel management option. There may be an active forest products industry nearby, which could support fuel treatments. Treatments may be economical as a precursor to prescribed fire.

Homes, Communities and Values at Risk
Individual homeowners can be proactive on home defensive actions. These counties could adjust building and construction codes in non-municipal areas.

Human-Caused Ignitions
Human caused ignitions are a problem in these counties. Reduce human-caused ignitions through enforcement or outreach.

Effective and Efficient Wildfire Response
Protect structures and target prevention of ignitions.

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