Restoring Fire-Adapted Forests and Barrens
Some forests and barrens depend on periodic disturbance to sustain their distinctive plant and animal communities. At Norcross Wildlife Foundation, we are restoring these habitats by managing invasive species and reintroducing prescribed fire. Our goal is to restore natural processes, strengthen native biodiversity, and improve habitat for wildlife, especially species of conservation concern.
Historic agricultural practices, including tilling and soil enrichment, changed these landscapes. Decades of fire suppression also allowed denser, shadier conditions to develop—a process known as mesophication—making it harder for plants adapted to sunny, dry environments to thrive. Carefully planned prescribed fire can help restore these conditions, support invasive species management, and reduce accumulated fuels that can contribute to wildfire risk.
Chapin: Bringing Fire Back to the Landscape
Chapin received its first restoration burn in March 2025, following invasive species management. The site was selected because of its potential to support existing species of conservation concern and create suitable habitat for additional species. Fire helps reduce the accumulated layer of organic matter, exposing the sandy mineral soils beneath and creating opportunities for seeds in the soil to germinate. Native plants such as lowbush blueberry and sedges can respond to these conditions, providing food and habitat for insects, birds, and other wildlife.
We are planning another prescribed burn at Chapin in 2027, with timing guided by site conditions and monitoring results. A series of burns is intended to help fire-adapted species become established, with longer intervals between burns as restoration progresses.