From early April through mid-June, as weather conditions safely allow, professional fire crews and specialized equipment from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge in Bloomington, Minn., will conduct prescribed burns to improve wildlife habitat and reduce the threat of wildfire on federally managed Refuge lands and Waterfowl Production Areas (WPA) in nine counties, including the Metro area.
“Prescribed fire is one of the most effective management tools we have to maintain and restore vegetation to its natural state,” said Charlie Blair, Refuge Manager at Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. “In addition to the habitat benefits gained from a carefully planned fire, we also reduce excessive natural fuels to help avoid catastrophic wildfires.”
Last year, Minnesota Valley crews safely burned 1,299 acres in seven counties. This year, burns are planned in nine counties: Hennepin, Scott, Carver, Sibley, Le Sueur, Rice, Blue Earth, Waseca, and Steele. The areas to be burned are open to public recreation, but public use will be restricted during fire operations. These areas will be clearly marked and safety personnel will be on-site during all active burns.
Prescribed fires simulate historic, naturally occurring wildfires, and produce great benefits to native plants and animals. Tallgrass Prairie and oak savanna ecosystems are fire dependant. Without fire these ecosystems would change over time and gradually disappear, along with the bird and animal species that thrive there. Burning the previous year’s plant matter returns nutrients to the soil, encouraging healthier and more productive plant growth. Fire top-kills woody plants such as willow and box elder, as well as invasive buckthorn.
“When people see evidence of prescribed fires on the land this spring, they should remember the benefits this management tool brings to Minnesota,” Blair said. “It removes accumulated flammable materials reducing the risks of uncontrolled wild fires, and enhances habitat for our wildlife and plants.”
For additional information please call the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge, at 952-854-5900, or write MN Valley NWR, 3815 American Blvd East, Bloomington, MN 55425.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit http://www.fws.gov
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