Why set Proscribed Fires?
USDA Forest Archives/Bugwood.org The Burn: Fires set within plowed safety lines mimic natural fires and help longleaf pine grasslands thrive. They also reduce the risk of dangerous wildfires. Reduces Wildfire Risks: Pine needles, limbs and other materials build up rapidly in longleaf pine stands becoming fuels for dangerous wildfires. Improves Habitat: Makes it easier for animals to move around and find food, and stimulates plants to bloom and produce food. Manage Competing Trees: Fire clears out oaks that move in and block sunlight from young pines. Prescribed fire also removes trees and shrubs that could send wildfires into longleaf treetops and kill them. Control Insects and Disease:Burns pine needles infected with brown spot disease, which prevents the fungus from spreading. Logging Debris Disposal: Clears the land of unused limbs and debris, making it easier to control wildfires. Prepare for Planting:Restores nutrients to the soil and controls competing plants until young pines be
