Wildfire mitigation brochure discusses Gyro-Trac's role in controlling fires in Florida

A Gyro-Trac machine clears hazardous undergrowth from a lot in a developing subdivision. Gyro-Tracs can operate near homes without risk to homeowners or the environment.

A brochure published jointly by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Department of Community Affairs discusses the role of the state's Gyro-Trac mulching machines in mitigating Florida wildfires.

The brochure, entitled "Wildfire Mitigation in Florida: Land use planning strategies and best development practices" recommends the use of Gyro-Trac equipment in areas where local ordinances prevent the removal of trees from residential lots, citing environmental concerns posed by the excavation of stumps and root systems.

An excerpt from the brochure:

"Mowing or chopping of vegetation with a tractor-mower, "bush hog" or Gyro-Trac is not the same as removing vegetation (roots and all) with a bulldozer or root rake...In practice, careful wildfire mitigation should be compatible with even the most stringent tree protection ordinance. For example, mechanical clearing of understory vegetation by mowing or chopping is generally not in violation of tree protection ordinances as long as trees and tree roots are not damaged in the process."

The brochure's glossary mentions Gyro-Trac as an example of a "mechanical clearing method":

"A Gyro-Trac mower is often used by the Florida Division of Forestry for mechanical treatments on lands determined to have hazardous fuel levels."

In addition, Gyro-Trac machines are displayed or mentioned in several pictures and captions demonstrating the state's wildfire prevention methods. The brochure can be downloaded in PDF format from the Florida Department of Community Affairs website.