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Scientists fly drones to map sagebrush for wildfire strategy

In this photo provided by Jennifer Forbey and taken June 10, 2015, Boise State University Professor Jennifer Forbey examines a drone prior to launch in an area west of Boise, Idaho. Scientists are testing camera-equipped drones in western Idaho to find out if they can identify subspecies of sagebrush as part of a wildfire strategy to help sage grouse and other wildlife across the West. (Chelsea Merriman/Courtesy of Jennifer Forbey via AP) In this photo provided by Jennifer Forbey and taken June 10, 2015, Boise State University Professor Jennifer Forbey examines a drone prior to launch in an area west of Boise, Idaho. Scientists are testing camera-equipped drones in western Idaho to find out if they can identify subspecies of sagebrush as part of a wildfire strategy to help sage grouse and other wildlife across the West. (Chelsea Merriman/Courtesy of Jennifer Forbey via AP)

By Associated Press June 17, 2015 3 min read

BOISE, Idaho (AP) – Scientists have deployed drones over western Idaho to map a little-known landscape as part of an effort to reduce wildfire risks and protect sage grouse and other wildlife across the West.

They say they have to learn more about what grows in the region so that when charred areas are restored, land managers don’t plant a type of sagebrush that sage grouse won’t eat.

The football-sized bird found in 11 states is being considered for federal protections under the Endangered Species Act.

“The lack of maps is a huge, critical problem for conserving sagebrush and any species – like sage grouse – that depend on it,” Matt Germino, a U.S. Geological Survey ecologist, said.

“We have probably replanted the wrong type of sage brush to some habitats,” he said.