26
Apr

Fire Mitigation Landscaping

Fire mitigation landscaping has becoming more relevant as more people are building their homes in natural brushlands and forests. It’s essential that the forestry areas are removed safely with care taking for fire mitigation. Drought conditions and changing extremities in the weather are causing a bigger fire risk than in previous decades.
Fire mitigation landscaping doesn’t stop homes from being built. It just encourages the creation of defensible space, creating breaks from the fire and allowing firefighters room to

do their jobs safely.

Fire Mitigation Landscaping Creates Defensible Space Without Affecting the Beauty

The important thing about defensible space is that the area will still look good. The property value is increased when the space is created properly, as it’s barely noticeable yet has a major effect. Strategic trees are removed, creating a buffer that prevents the spread of the fire. Since there isn’t the fuel to keep the fire going, it has a wall that gives firefighters time to put the fire out.
While plants can be placed near the home, the amount isn’t so large to create a fire risk. The plants also grow lower to make them less likely to be affected by forest fires. Small, irregular islands of plants are important to look good but avoid too much risk.

Decorative Rocks and Stone Pathways

There is now a move to remove the trees and grassy areas to create a path. More focus is on the use of decorative rock and stone features, including rock gardens and pathways. These decorative steps help to create the barrier without making the area look odd or bare. Some plants can still be added, but the greenery is minimal. It’s possible to set up bird baths and gardens within the area to encourage wildlife and create a serene feeling around the home. You get a garden of art.

If you need help creating defensible space around your property, give Colorado Mastication a call.