VIDEO/PHOTOS: Biologists are using a new technique to increase their efficiency in mitigating wildfire risk at Red Cliffs Desert Reserve: invasive-plant-killing aerial drones. The drones are designed to spray herbicide in key fuel breaks, which are areas designated to slow fires before they can spread. Officials say these breaks could make a significant difference when fire conditions intensify.
“The idea is if we can really bolster these areas as fuel breaks when those fuels do dry out, wildfires are going to be much less likely to spread,” said Mike Schijf, biologist and recreation specialist. The area’s main target is cheatgrass, a weed that can quickly turn the desert floor into tinder. Schijf told ABC4 that this invasive, dry species paves the way for fires to burn hundreds or thousands of acres.
KTVX-TV ABC 4 Salt Lake City
date: 2026-02-10 15:16:00
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