The Forest Service also expanded its responsibilities to include enhancing habitat for endangered plant and animal species, such as the red-cockaded woodpecker. In 1985, there were four red-cockaded woodpeckers on the site. Because of the research and efforts to understand what the bird needs to grow as a species, there are more than 160 birds on the site today. Other species helped by the endangered habitat program include the bald eagle and the gopher tortoise. Forest Service crews brought the 37-acre blaze under control.
Crews also are responsible for maintaining roads that allow quick travel to and control of fires.
Mr. Bonar said. Another important aspect of the Forest Service's role on the government site is fire management. Allen Nichols, assistant manager for fire, said the keys are planning, preparedness and prevention. In controlled burning, also called prescribed burning, the Forest Service starts fires under close watch to decrease the natural fuels that can cause wildfires to get out of control. Mr. Nichols said planning helps control the smoke during the prescribed burns.