Which fuel group is primarily composed of short, herbaceous plants?

The fuel group that is primarily composed of short, herbaceous plants is the grass group. Grass fuels are characterized by their low stature and quick growth cycles. These fuels include types of vegetation such as grasses, sedges, and forbs, which are generally non-woody plants and typically have low moisture content, allowing them to ignite and burn rapidly.

Understanding this group is essential in wildland fire behavior because the dense arrangement of grass can lead to fast-spreading fires, especially in dry conditions. The ephemeral nature of grass fuels means they can be abundant in certain seasons, creating significant fire risks. Knowing how to identify this group helps fire managers and crews plan and implement effective fire suppression strategies and fuel management practices.