Under extreme conditions (e.g., high winds), sandy soils will blow, but this is temporary and has not been shown to reduce plant production over the long term. There is limited evidence that prescribed fires cause soil erosion. Under some wildfire conditions, soil erosion may occur.
How do I burn a brush pile?
Brush piles are problematic and can cause many wildfires. This is because they often burn for long periods of time, during which extreme conditions may develop.
Remember that embers can travel great distances from brush piles and create spot fires. The best time to burn a brush pile is when vegetation is actively growing and thus has a high moisture content. Under these conditions, spot fires are less likely to occur. If this is not possible, then fuel needs to be eliminated around the brush pile through mowing, grazing, prescribed fire, etc.