Abstract: A fire resistant composition comprises a quantity of cellulosic debris formed to be spread as a ground cover, and an asphalt-containing material mixed with the cellulosic debris. The asphalt-containing material comprises at least 35 wt % of the composition. Preferably, the asphalt-containing material is formed from asphalt roofing shingles. The cellulosic debris may be wood waste or other suitable materials formed into chips or other particles suitable for spreading as a ground cover. A method for forming a fire resistant composition comprised of cellulosic debris and an asphalt-containing material is also disclosed.