Prescribed fire season is now in place at the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve as part of a collaborative effort involving the National Park Service and The Nature Conservancy.
Fire has been used for years as a way to “promote a healthy prairie and maintain the cultural landscape of the preserve.” Officials also say it helps to control unwanted woody vegetation while promoting native animal and plant diversity.
There is a narrow set of weather conditions sought because the preserve has different things to consider, including ecological impacts and smoke dispersal, with every prescribed fire. The preserve says advance notice is often minimal, meaning some trails and areas may be closed on short notice.
The season runs through April. Preserve visitors are asked not to cross any fire lines or to go beyond signs and barricades.
Residents wanting more information on conditions and related closures can go online to nps.gov/tapr, find the preserve on Facebook, email tapr_interpretation@nps.gov or call 620-273-8494.
