Prescribed Burns – Man’s Cleansing Tool

Some people panic when they hear news of a prescribed burn in their area. However, these well-planned and highly managed fires replicate the magic of Mother Nature to clean out the debris and unnecessary and in fact, dangerous, build up in our forests.

While it may be alarming to hear of a man-made fire during these dangerous fire times, they are a vital tool in restoring our forests to healthy and safe conditions. Well-managed burns take place during safe, low-wind periods. Rarely do they grow out of control.

Additionally, every forest community and resident must be vigilant in cutting, pruning and cleaning the vegetation on their land. We must emulate Mother Nature by thinning trees and removing debris. We must build structures out of less-flammable exterior materials.

These photos show the difference between a forest that is a threat and one that is healthy. Notice the space between the crowns and the clear boles. Also, in this healthy forest, there is an abundance of grass and forbs on the floor. This healthy, functioning forest creates a biological bonanza for insects, butterflies, songbirds and even some engendered species.