A review team ultimately indicated that the BLM inadequately evaluated fire weather, fire behavior, and smoke impacts. The BLM did not light a test fire as prescribed in the burn plan and a plan of protection for houses was never discussed. Adequate protection resources were not available in case of the fire's escape. Heads rolled.
The Lowden Ranch prescribed fire has had major impacts on the federal govenment's use of prescribed fire - until Los Alamos.
BLM Case Study: Lowden Ranch Prescribed Fire
NPS Case Study: The Los Alamos Prescribed Fire
