NWF is leveraging this powerful tool to achieve three primary goals: promoting fire adapted natural communities, reducing the threat of uncontrolled wildfires, and providing proper training for wildfire fighting. The prescribed burn will be conducted under strict safety guidelines by trained professionals who will closely monitor weather conditions to ensure a safe and effective operation. While some smoke is expected, multiple measures will take place to mitigate and minimize any potential impacts on our community. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed by following official updates on our website and social media channels.
The controlled application of fire is a well-established land management practice that mimics natural fire cycles, fostering ecosystem health, enhancing biodiversity and mitigating wildfire risks. According to the National Association of State Foresters (NASF) and the Coalition of Prescribed Fire Councils (CPFC), the use of prescribed fire to restore native ecosystems has increased significantly over the past decade, contributing to the recovery of approximately 8,000 to 10,000 acres of land annually.
“Through prescribed burns, we can safely and effectively restore balance to these unique ecosystems; this intervention will help rejuvenate a fire-adapted habitat, reduce invasive species, and mitigate the risk of uncontrolled wildfires in the region by reducing fuel load” said Dan Wilder, Director of Applied Ecology at NWF.
This prescribed burn will take place in an historically fire-adapted barrens ecosystem of glacially shaped sand hills and woodland communities of pitch pine and oak. This habitat is highly valuable for wildlife and supports the promotion of rare plant species, including the wild Lupine (Lupinus perennis), a perennial herb that has been absent from the landscape for the past 20 years. Years of planning and preparation have gone into this important event. Key actions including the active management of invasive species, extensive logging work completed during the winter of 2021/2022, and comprehensive wildfire training NWF professionals and local fire departments, providing them with invaluable real-life experience.
NWF is dedicated to preserving and managing ecologically significant habitats in the region, with a mission to protect, enhance and expand biodiversity and wildlife populations. We invite you to explore our public trails, which will reopen on April 18.
