Army planning to burn 1,200 acres at Schofield
By William Cole
Advertiser Military Writer
A "prescribed burn" of 1,200 to 1,500 acres will be conducted at the Schofield Barracks West Range starting as early as June 7 as the Army continues to plan for a Stryker Brigade Combat Team.
The five- to six-day burn at McCarthy Flats could start as late as June 11 depending on weather conditions. It is part of work being done to clear the land of unexploded ordnance and to allow archaeological surveys as part of an environmental impact statement for the fast-strike unit.
Additionally, the burn will help minimize the risk of wildfires by reducing the vegetation in the range impact area, the Army said.
A herbicide is expected to be used to kill the vegetation and make for more combustible fuel for the fires.
The $1.5 billion planned Stryker Brigade would include more than 300 eight-wheeled armored vehicles that can be delivered to the battlefield faster and can provide 25th Infantry Division (Light) soldiers greater protection and firepower.
The House Armed Services Committee recently voted to include $8.7 million in the fiscal 2004 national defense authoriza-tion bill for a "qualification and training range" at Schofield that will replace five existing ranges.
The Army also is planning to acquire 1,500 to 2,100 acres next to Schofield for a motor pool, artillery "firing points" that would fire into the existing impact area, a pistol and rifle qualification training range, roadway easements, and to provide greater control over aircraft "accident prevention zones" west of Wheeler Army Airfield.
The Army said there could be unexploded mortar, artillery and rocket-propelled grenades in the impact area, which has been used for decades.
The service also said it has developed a comprehensive safety plan for the burn.
The Army had at one time considered condemning up to 40 percent of the 3,700-acre Honouliuli Preserve, but shifted the proposed acquisition after concern was raised by the Nature Conservancy of Hawai'i. About 80 acres of the preserve still may be used, but in an area not actively managed by the group.
"We've been talking to them (the Army) quite a bit regarding our concerns, and they've listened," said Pauline Sato, the conservation group's O'ahu director.
Honouliuli Preserve, extending across the southern end of the Wai'anae range, was designated critical habitat for the 'elepaio, an endangered forest bird, and is home to more than 70 rare and endangered species.
Reach William Cole at wcole@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-5459.
