Conservation district to do controlled prairie burn

Fire is a natural and essential ingredient of healthy native ecosystems. Throughout history, lightning sparked natural fires, performing a "house cleaning" function for nature.

Fires release nutrients from burned plants, help seeds to grow and open the woodland floor to sunlight so that native wildflowers can flourish.

Local oak woodlands and prairies are adapted to fire and depend on it to maintain their unique character. In pre-settlement times, wildfires did not simply go out at the end of the day.

McHenry County Conservation District's ecologists and trained burn crew will demonstrate a prescribed prairie and savanna burn from 7 to 9 p.m. March 28 at Glacial Park, 6316 Harts Road in Ringwood.

The evening begins indoors for a discussion on the benefits of fire to ecosystems and how the Conservation District goes about the business of burning. Participants will then watch the fire and the coordinated efforts of the fire crews at work.

"The Conservation District uses controlled burns to restore the health of local natural habitats. Parts of woods and prairies will be burned every few years to clear weedy plants that choke out burr oaks and native wildflowers.

"This process helps bring back diverse communities of plants and animals, and creating dynamic, attractive and safe natural areas for people to enjoy," said Wendy Kummerer, communications manager for the district.

Before each burn, trained personnel survey the burn site and create a detailed plan of action.

They then monitor the weather and wait until conditions are right, minimizing the chance that smoke will blow toward houses and roads.

During the burn seasons in early spring and late fall, staff also take care to inform neighbors of their plans so that people with respiratory problems can avoid the smoke.

"Following a controlled burn, the reinvigorated natural areas provide habitat for wildlife and improve air and water quality in the region," Kummerer said.

Those interested, ages 12 and older, can register for the Night Fire program online at www.MCCDistrict.org or by calling (815) 479-5779.

This event will be held weather permitting. Dress for the weather and be prepared for a short hike.