As a retired Rangeland Management Specialist with Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), I stress the significance of prescribed burning; however, I also understand the hesitation about the use of fire as a management strategy. I now work with Kansas Grazing Lands Coalition (KGLC) to educate the public about the realities of fire and its importance in the management of our lands. Part of my role with KGLC also encompasses writing detailed prescribed burning and grazing plans. It is my hope that through this article, I can help you to understand the goals of prescribed burning and how to get in contact with a prescribed burn specialist.
The Natural Ecosystem
The natural process of evolution for a native plant community is affected by three primary drivers: fire, grazing, and weather. Fire is an important management tool for controlling woody invasive species, reducing grazing distribution problems, improve grazing animal performance, and regenerating forage. Prairie landscapes have diminished over time through fragmentation, urban build up, farming practices, invasive species, and woody encroachment. It is our job as stewards of the land to care for our native areas and encourage effective and safe management practices.
Native prairie is not meant to have many trees, and it is easy to underestimate the impact that invasive woody species can have on the environment. Too large of tree canopies can shade the grasses which can then lead to major effects on the natural ecosystem, including the plant community, hydrology, soil, and increased erosion. These woody species can eventually dominate a plant community if not controlled.
