Overview
Overview
Prescribed fire (or controlled burning) is the application of fire to a predetermined area of land. It is a tool used by natural resource managers and others to accomplish specific management objectives. These objectives can include wildfire hazard reduction, ecosystem restoration, wildlife habitat improvement, site preparation and reducing plant competition. Fire helps manage weeds and other vegetation and thus helps to reduce the risk of wildfires, but it also can help restore nutrients and help lead to more desirable plant growth in the future. Woodlands, prairies, and wetlands are all natural communities where prescribed fire is used.
Almost all state and federal natural resource agencies across the Southern region use prescribed burning as a land management tool. A plethora of information is available from these agencies. A few of their prescribed burning websites are included below, where you can go for more information:
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USDA Forest Service Prescribed Fire
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NRCS Prescribed Burning
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U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Fire Management
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National Park Service Wildfires, Prescribed Fires, and Fuels
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Check your state forestry, wildlife, or natural resource agency website for more information
