Since the inception of organized fire suppression in the early 1900s, wildland fire management has dramatically evolved in operational complexity; ecological significance; social, economic, and political magnitude; areas and timing of application; and recognition of potentially serious consequences. Throughout the past 100 years, fire management has matured from a single-dimensional program focused solely on control and immediate extinguishment to a multidimensional program. Throughout this period, fire managers have adapted their responses to changing conditions, emerging knowledge, and increasing experience. Now, they can utilize the full spectrum of responses to wildland fire to achieve both protection and ecological benefits based on objectives described in the applicable land and resource management plans and fire management plans.