Weather permitting, burns will be conducted at CCSFS starting tomorrow, Thursday, March 27, to Sunday, March 30, across roughly 800 acres of land. Smoke may be visible from surrounding areas, but the controlled burns are being conducted safely and residents do not need to be concerned. 

Prescribed burns, also known as controlled burns, are intentional fires conducted by trained professionals under specific environmental conditions to manage and restore natural ecosystems. Occasional fires in the Florida scrublands is a natural part of the ecosystem lifecycle.

In Florida, these burns play a crucial role in maintaining the health and diversity of fire-dependent habitats, such as pine flatwoods and prairies. By carefully applying fire, land managers can mimic natural fire cycles that many of Florida’s plant and animal species have adapted to over time.

The ecological benefits of prescribed burns are extensive. They help reduce the accumulation of flammable vegetation, thereby decreasing the risk and severity of uncontrolled wildfires. Additionally, these burns promote the growth of native vegetation by recycling nutrients back into the soil and opening up space for sunlight to reach the forest floor.

Sand Pines, Longleaf pines, sandplain gerardia and wood lily also benefit from fire, as it helps them outcompete invasive species and promotes their growth. The fire cycle also supports a variety of wildlife species, including the gopher tortoise and the Florida scrub-jay, which rely on fire-maintained habitats for survival.

During the burn, trained personnel continuously monitor fire behavior and weather conditions to maintain control and address any unforeseen developments promptly. Additionally, contingency plans are in place to manage potential escape fires or changes in weather conditions that could affect fire behavior.

Should smoke affect visibility on roadways, drivers should follow these common-sense guidelines: