Tuesday, April 2, 2019

Michigan: more prescribed burns on the way this spring

Where there's smoke, there's fire. As spring nears, Michigan residents may occasionally see some smoke, courtesy of prescribed fires, or burns, carried out in different areas of the state by the DNR. They can be conducted any time of year, but most burns are done in the spring and fall.

The DNR works closely with local officials in areas where burns are planned. Weather is carefully monitored, too, and burns will be canceled if conditions are unfavorable.

These carefully staged fires help control invasive species and create critical habitat for wildlife. And, strange as it may sound, these fires also help our forests grow! Want to learn more? Check out the DNR's Prescribed Fire Explained webpage for some history, a map of past burn locations, a link to a prescribed burn story map and the opportunity to sign up for email updates.

Questions? Contact Kathleen Lavey, 517-284-5852.