The City of Fort Worth announced that its Park & Recreation Department will be employing prescribed fires in different sections of the city in an effort to reduce wildfire risks.
A December 9 press release from the city describes the Park & Recreation department as a “trailblazer” in using the method, having used it to reduce wildfire risk since the 1980s.
“Prescribed fire is not a haphazard process; it involves rigorous planning, strict adherence to safety protocols, and the acquisition of various permits to guarantee minimal impact on the community,” reads the release.
Officials will perform these burns at the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, Chisholm Trail Park, Rolling Hills Tree Farm, Casino Beach Park and Fort Worth Botanic Garden. The burns will be conducted between December and February when there is “appropriate weather.”
“By conducting prescribed fires, we’re significantly reducing the accumulation of flammable materials in our parks and green spaces,” said Jared Hall, natural resource specialist for the Park & Recreation Department. “This means if a wildfire does occur, it’s less likely to become uncontrollable, ensuring the safety of the community.”
The city claims that these burns will also aid the Fort Worth Fire Department and other fire departments as they train firefighters to deal with wildfires.
“Prescribed fire is a very valuable tool for us. Not only does it help us prepare for wildfire events, but it also allows us to collaborate with other agencies and enhance our emergency response capabilities,” said Fort Worth Fire Captain Cody Stilwell.
The State of Texas has dealt with numerous wildfires this year. Gov. Greg Abbott declared a disaster situation in August as multiple wildfires ravaged the state, consuming hundreds of acres, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
Unlike destructive wildfires, prescribed fires are controlled burns used to restore and maintain ecosystems, according to the United States Department of Agriculture. These burns have several benefits to the local environment including reducing the amount of harmful fuels in the environment, recycling soil nutrients, enhancing the growth of trees and flora, and more.
