Description
Wildfire is a natural process that can result in long-term ecological benefits. However, near-term impacts can include soil erosion and landslides, increased sedimentation and reduced water quality in nearby streams, spread of invasive plants, and slow return of carbon-sequestering forests. These impacts require immediate work to ensure the long-term recovery of areas burned by wildfire. King County will work with partners to identify and plan for wildfire mitigation and recovery practices that limit the negative, near-term impacts of wildfire on County-owned forestland. Key tasks include identifying higher risk County-owned forestland, identifying and integrating mitigation practices into County operations and projects, and developing wildfire recovery plan templates. Post-fire response plans will be developed and updated as needed to reflect changing conditions.