Prescribed fires ahead in Kentucky: Why Fish and Wildlife says controlled burning is a good thing
KENTUCKY, Ky. (FOX 56) — Spring cleaning can be an important part of any Kentucky resident's annual routine, and it's just as important for plants and wildlife in fields, valleys, and forests across the Bluegrass.
Throughout March and April, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KYFWR) announced that fire experts will be carrying out prescribed fires to manage habitats in various Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs).
The department said in a news release that the controlled burns across the state are done for the health of local ecosystems dependent on fire.
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'Signs will be posted and gates will be closed at all access points to project locations and adjacent landowners will be notified of the burns,' KYFWR wrote. 'The prescribed fire areas will be monitored until all fire, embers and smoke are extinguished before reopening to the public.'
Fish and Wildlife officials said the prescribed fire method cordons off portions of Wildlife Management properties to increase the production of nuts and soft fruits and to help oak trees regenerate. The fires also clear leaf litter, helping control the invasive plant population while giving native grass and wildflowers a better chance to thrive.
'Prescribed fire is a safe way to apply a natural process, ensure ecosystem health and reduce wildfire risk,' KYFWR officials said.
Department staff said if you see smoke in the air, follow the Environmental Protection Agency's AirNow fire and smoke safety tips, such as paying attention to local air quality reports.
Read more of the latest Kentucky news
State officials said the fires will be scheduled when weather conditions are optimal, as well as wind, air temperature, relative humidity, soil moisture, and other factors. An outdoor burn ban is in place for Kentucky during the spring fire season, making it illegal to burn anything within 150 feet of woodland or brushland from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Feb. 15 through April 30, per state law.
To find more information about controlled burns in Kentucky, as well as a list of WMAs by county, visit the Kentucky Fish & Wildlife website.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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