BehavePlus fire modeling system: past, present, and future

The BehavePlus fire modeling system is based on a collection of models that describe fire behavior, fire effects, and fire environment. Although the Rothermel surface fire spread model is an important component of BehavePlus, it is only one of over 30 mathematical models in the system. A list of those models with references is given. Linkages among the models are described.

The BEHAVE fire behavior prediction and fuel modeling system was a set of five DOS programs first available for field application in 1984. The Joint Fire Science Program funded a much needed update from BEHAVE to BehavePlus. Version 1.0, consisting of essentially the same fire models, was released in 2002. Fire models and features were added with versions 2.0 and 3.0 in 2003 and 2005. Version 4.0 is under development. Modeling capabilities, features, and supporting material for version 4.0 are described.

While users have access to a stable, supported BehavePlus, work will focus on another major update. Planning for the next generation is beginning, in conjunction with other planning efforts. The vision is not one large computer program that can do everything, but rather systems with common components (such as graphics tools) and with improved linkages (such as weather data files). Having a common look and feel for BehavePlus and other related systems will make things easier for the busy fire manager. Specific thoughts for the next generation are given.