(New Harmony, UT) - The BLM, Color Country District began work this past week to rehabilitate areas burned by wildfire near New Harmony, Utah on June 27, 2012. Rehabilitation efforts will ensure continued wildfire protection to communities in addition to restore important wildlife habitat. Desired grasses and forbs are applied to the site by a helicopter. A “chain harrow,” provided by the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR) then incorporates the seed into the soil. Also, a “bullhog” mechanically mulches burned trees in more critical areas that are susceptible to erosion and increased water runoff. Communities at risk of wildfire are always at the top of the priority list when rehabilitating Southern Utah’s wildfire areas. Wildlife benefits are also very important to BLM’s strategy.Most rehabilitation and treatments are designed to be used by big game animals, birds, and other sensitive species like sage grouse.This year BLM is working on implementing Emergency Stabilization and Rehabilitation plans for approximately 30,000 acres of land impacted by various wildfires throughout Southern Utah.