Prescribed burns resume in Fox Valley area

Beginning Nov. 1, the Fox Valley Park District will resume its program of prescribed burns at selected park sites and natural areas.

For decades, the park district has conducted these specialized burns for their ecological benefits. Fire plays an essential role in creating healthy ecosystems by reducing the abundance of invasive, non-native plant species.

Prescribed burns create a setting for beneficial native plants and wildflowers to flourish. Burning also releases nutrients into the soil, encourages new seed growth and opens woodland floors to allow increased sunlight that spurs vibrant growth and promotes plant diversity.

"Fire has occurred naturally for thousands of years and plays an essential role in healthy, native ecosystems," said Monkia Kastle, natural areas specialist. "Burning creates greater biodiversity and the positive effects are beneficial to woodlands, prairies, wetlands and the wildlife that inhabit these areas."

Prior to conducting a prescribed burn, trained staff survey the burn area to create a detailed plan of action.

Sites are burned according to dryness of vegetation, wind direction/speed and other variables, so exact dates and times for specific burns are dependent upon conditions. Most times, it is a day-of decision.

Potential sites targeted for burning between Nov. 1, 2016, and May 15, 2017, include:

• First Priority: Aurora Prairie, Blackberry Trail Park, Cheshire Lake Park, Church Road Park, Eola Hill, Orchard and Prairie (VG Trail), South Broadway, Stuart Sports Complex and Waubonsie Lake.

• Second Priority: Arrowood Park, Galena Blvd. bridge (VG Trail), Hoscheit Park, New Haven, Propernick Park, Simmons Park, Stonegate Park, Willow Lake and Wingfoot Park.

• Third Priority: Barnes Road, Blackberry Farm, Chesterfield Park, Golfview Park, Lippold Park, Meadow Lake Park, South Island Park, Splash Country Water Park, Tanner Trails Park and Turnstone Park.