Prescribed Fires

Prescribed fires are intentionally set, carefully planned fires used to manage and restore natural landscapes. They help reduce excess vegetation, like dead plants and small trees, which can fuel larger, uncontrollable wildfires. These controlled burns also promote healthy ecosystems by releasing nutrients into the soil, encouraging new growth, and maintaining the health of fire-adapted plant and animal species. Experts carefully select the timing, weather conditions, and areas to ensure safety and effectiveness. Prescribed fires are an important land management tool that balances the benefits of fire with the need to protect communities and ecosystems.