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RAC debates 'mop up' definition; many members favor NWCG language with tweaks for prescribed‑fire context
Summary
Committee members reviewed four mop‑up drafts. Several recommended adopting the established NWCG definition to avoid reinventing the term, while flagging language that references wildfire tactics not typical of prescribed burns; group agreed to return with proposed edits.
Members reviewed competing mop‑up definitions and debated the balance between describing intent (extinguish combustion, reduce reignition risk) and listing tactics (applying water, felling snags). Vernita urged starting with the objective—extinguishing combustion and eliminating smoke—then listing methods; Chad said mop up should include making a fire safe or reducing reignition risk. Amanda observed that "make a fire safe" is vague and recommended language that emphasizes extinguishing combustion and reducing residual smoke.
James and several others suggested the committee consider adopting the NWCG (National Wildfire Coordinating Group) definition to preserve consistency with established wildland fire terminology, while noting some NWCG elements are tailored to wildfire operations rather than prescribed burns. The committee agreed to capture the suggestion and return draft language that preserves intent but is appropriate for prescribed‑fire contexts.
