Control of medusahead (Elymus caput-medusae) on rangeland is a major problem on many acres in California and other western states. Where this grass covers large areas and spraying or mowing is not feasible, burning has been extensively used. The purpose of burning is to destroy the seed in the head before it shatters and is deposited on the ground. Because medusahead is an annual plant it depends on the current seed crop to perpetuate itself. In many circumstances, where burning is properly accomplished, the medusahead stand will be reduced to a very low percentage during the next growing season.