How House Bill 2162 targets Red Cedar Trees to reduce wildfires in Oklahoma

Q: What is House Bill 2162?

A: House Bill 2162 is a proposed law making its way through the Oklahoma state legislature. Its goal is to reduce the growing threat of wildfires by tackling the overpopulation of red cedar trees — a major fuel source for fires across the state. After passing the House, the bill now heads to the Senate for approval.

Q: Why are red cedar trees such a problem for wildfires?

A: Over the past 30 years, the red cedar population in Oklahoma has exploded. These trees are highly flammable because they are packed with oils that allow them to ignite and even explode during fires. According to John Weir, Senior Extension Specialist for Oklahoma State University (OSU), "Cedar trees are definitely one of the fuels, and they make those fires very difficult to control and contain."

Q: How do red cedars make wildfires more dangerous?

A: Red cedars contribute to extreme fire behavior. As John Weir explains, "You may have a handle on a fire right here at this moment, then all of a sudden a bunch of cedars crown out and spit a bunch of embers downwind." This makes fires unpredictable and fast-moving, especially when combined with Oklahoma’s strong winds — a key driver of wildfires.

Q: What solutions does House Bill 2162 propose?

A: The bill aims to:

1. Expand a pilot program that uses heavy machinery to mulch red cedar trees and clear dangerous brush.
2. Reduce wildlife habitat and reduce water flow into waterways and water basins
3. Create up to 300-acre perimeters brush-free zones around communities to slow or stop the spread of wildfires.
4. Provide training and support for rural fire departments to better handle wildfire risks.

Q: How much funding is needed for this program?

A: The Oklahoma Conservation Commission estimates it would take $10 million to fully fund the program statewide, enabling more communities to be protected from wildfires.