Evaluation of standard methods for collecting and processing fuel moisture samples

A variety of techniques for collecting and processing samples to determine moisture content of wildland fuels in support of fire management activities were evaluated. The effects of using a chainsaw or handsaw to collect samples of largediameter wood, containers for storing and transporting collected samples, and quick-response ovens for estimating moisture content were evaluated against the ASTM standard method D4442 to determine the moisture content of wood. Saw type and most sample containers did not influence the moisture content; however, polyethylene bags lost moisture owing to poor seal or perforation, making them unsuitable for storing fuel for processing. Generally, most of the quick-response oven tests indicated that drying fuels at higher temperatures than the ASTM standard method provided comparable results.