Minimizing the Risk of Devastating Wildfires
The week is officially here! Alright, it might not be one you set your calendars updates for, but it is important nonetheless. This week Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson and the Florida Forest Service are recognizing as the state’s annual Prescribed Fire Awareness Week.“By clearing the buildup of underbrush that fuels wildfires, we can safely manage the state’s fire-dependent and fire-prone landscapes,” said Florida Forest Service Director Rick Dolan. “Prescribed fire also supports disease control in young forests, wildlife habitat improvement, range management, and the preservation of endangered plant and animal species.”
Nearly half of Florida is made up of forests, the state’s top agricultural commodity. Prescribed fire allows land managers across the state to choose the conditions and areas that need to be cleared. The busy season for prescribed fires is typically between December and March, featuring cool days and more predictable winds.
For more information on prescribed fire, visit WhyPrescribedFire.org.