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	Burning Irrigation Ditches
	Publication #: B-1351 Date Published: 09/01/2019 Publication Author(s): John Derek Scasta Catherine Elizabeth Estep Timothy Thomas Barret Caleb Gray, et al.

Description:
Burning irrigation ditches and canals is an agricultural practice that dates back centuries and continues today to aid the delivery of water in the American West. A major challenge to effectively deliver water down natural irrigation ditches is the vegetation growth that fills ditches. The vegetation that accumulates in irrigation ditches slows the flow rate of the water and can reduce the total capacity of the ditch. In addition, this vegetation can also provide harbor insects and disease. If irrigation ditches are left uncleared, it is possible that gates and grates could clog and cause flooding (i.e., a blowout) in unintended locations – problems that burning can alleviate. Burning any natural vegetation is a complex task that comes with a certain level of risk. This factsheet provides an overview of burning irrigation ditches and includes a review of fire as a management tool, equipment needs and operations, safety considerations, weather considerations, timing of burning, relevant state and federal policies and regulations. The factsheet includes color photos, figures, and tables to illustrate how to safely and effectively burn irrigation ditches in Wyoming.

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