Burned Area Emergency Response specialists have released a new soil burn severity map for the Babylon Fire, revealing that over half of the 107,189-acre burn area sustained moderate soil damage. The assessment, released by the U.S. Forest Service, aims to identify high-risk areas for erosion and runoff to help prioritize emergency response actions across the Manti-La Sal National Forest.
Soil Damage Assessment Details
The Soil Burn Severity (SBS) map, produced by specialists following field data collection, characterizes the degree of fire-caused damage to both the soil surface and the ground beneath it. According to the U.S. Forest Service, the mapping shows that approximately 55,220 acres, or 51% of the fire's footprint, experienced moderate soil burn severity. Additionally, 5,094 acres, representing 5% of the total area, sustained high soil burn severity.
Breakdown of Burn Severity
Other portions of the Babylon Fire area showed lower levels of impact. The assessment estimates that 35,473 acres, or 33% of the area, experienced low soil burn severity. An additional 13,088 acres, representing 12% of the total burned area, was classified as having unburned or very low soil burn severity.
Impact on Soil Properties
The U.S. Forest Service noted that moderate and high soil burn severity can significantly alter the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil. These changes can lead to increased runoff and erosion, potentially impacting the soil's ability to support future vegetation. Specific soil properties affected include soil ground cover—specifically effective litter and soil organic matter—as well as hydrophobicity, or water repellency, and soil structure, including aggregate stability.
Risks of Erosion and Runoff
The loss of effective ground cover, particularly on steep slopes, increases the probability of soil erosion and heightened runoff. The BAER team utilizes the SBS map to analyze and predict post-fire erosion, which can lead to increased sediment delivery, stream flows, and debris flows. These findings are critical for identifying areas where post-fire conditions may pose risks to infrastructure, natural resources, cultural sites, and public safety on National Forest System lands.
Fire and Forest Information
The Babylon Fire, located within the Manti-La Sal National Forest, has burned a total of 107,189 acres. The forest is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, with specific incident oversight provided by the Monticello Ranger District. The forest's administrative office is located at 599 West Price River Drive in Price, Utah.
Future Response Actions
Following the completion of the risk assessment portion of their study, the BAER team is currently developing recommendations for emergency response actions. These actions are intended to reduce the risks associated with the identified soil damage. The SBS map and the resulting analysis are being shared with interested partners and cooperating agencies. The data can be accessed via the incident's Facebook page or through the Inciweb platform.
Local Context
The Heber City facilities department maintains records for local municipal assets, though no specific connection to the Babylon Fire incident was detailed in the city's facility listings.
