Which type of fuel is ground duff?

Ground duff consists of a layer of decomposing organic material, typically found on the forest floor, that contributes to the fuel load in wildland fire scenarios. This layer includes leaves, small twigs, and decomposing plant matter, which are often low in weight and compactness. The term "fine" in this context refers to the characteristics of the particles that make up ground duff.

Fine fuels ignite easily and burn quickly, which makes them particularly significant in fire behavior. Their small size allows them to catch fire rapidly, which can promote fire spread and intensity. Understanding that ground duff is classified as a fine fuel helps firefighters anticipate its impact during fire situations, and it emphasizes the need for effective management practices in forested areas.