This hydrophobic condition is more notable in areas that were affected by higher intensity burns. The faster that water runs over the surface of a watershed without percolating into the soil, the greater the volume of water delivered downstream. Raking the surface of hydrophobic or otherwise severely heat-damaged or burned soils prior to reseeding helps to break up the hydrophobic layer and also helps prepare a seedbed. Mulching with straw after seeding helps protect the seedbed, reduces the impacts of raindrops, enhances water infiltration, and helps conserve soil moisture. Above ground, vegetation serves as a buffer between the soil and the forces of wind and water.
Vegetative cover reduces the impacts of rain that can loosen soil particles to cause erosion.
Bare, fire-scorched soil is more vulnerable to wind and water erosion. Revegetation is often part of a fire rehabilitation strategy. High intensity burns often respond more quickly when reseeded and mulched. Large areas or rugged terrain are often aerially reseeded. Lower intensity burns generally regenerate without special treatment.