Video: Waterways on Fire Damaged Landscapes

Steep burned hillsides can be unstable in heavy rains, increasing the risk of landsides. To avoid this outcome, use wattles as described above to keep soil from moving downhill and entering storm drains, culverts and creeks.

Other tips for keeping sediment out of waterways include: clear storm drains and culverts of debris to prevent flooding, redirecting sheet water into storm drains (and away from waterways); clear out gutters and ditches; repair fire breaks so they do not channel runoff but blend evenly with the slope of the land; minimize foot and equipment traffic as much as possible.