MODIS satellite data from 2000 – 2010 was used to generate spatial and temporal statistics describing the characteristics of fire in Nepal. Elevation, moisture, seasonality, and other spatiotemporal characteristics were used to describe the pattern of fires. Areas with human influence, particularly agriculture and grazing, experienced more burned area overall if sufficient fuels were available to burn. Fires occurred more frequently during springs and winters due to the influence of the Asian Monsoon during the hottest summer months. Conservation areas were also particularly susceptible to fires, raising doubts about the effectiveness of resource management strategies. Read More
