Fire
Wildfire
The Florida Division of Forestry provides useful updates on wildfire danger across the state. Check the FL DOF Web site for the latest update on wildfire danger.
Additional
Resources
University of Florida Extension Website
University of Florida Extension Service Publications
Prescribed Fire
Prescribed fire is controlled application of fire to vegetative fuels, under specified environmental conditions and following appropriate precautionary measures, to achieve specific objectives, including:
- Hazard reduction
- Control of undesirable species
- Wildlife habitat improvement
- Improved access and visibility
- Disease control
- Enhancement of appearance and aesthetics
- Manipulation of depth, chemistry and decomposition of the site
In areas of light brush you may need only burn off the area in late summer or early fall before planting. In other areas of more dense conditions, fire may be used in conjunction with other chemical or mechanical methods.
Although fire is a very effective and inexpensive land management tool, it can be disastrous under adverse conditions. Seek the assistance of a professional if you are not confident about your knowledge of prescribed fire. See our Prescribed Burning Regulations page for more information.
Fire is very useful to forest managers in many ways and must be applied at the time of year when there is a good chance of reaching the given objectives. The distinction between managed fire and wildfire must be made clear to the public so that land management policy will support the safety, health, and economic viability of Florida's public and private forests.
The Alabama Private Forest Management Team has developed an excellent prescribed fire section on their Web site which provides basic information needed to help you become technically proficient in the proper use of prescribed fire. This section is likely the most complete source of prescribed fire information on the Web: A Guide For Prescribed Fire in Southern Forests.
Additional Resources
University of Florida Extension Website
University of Florida Extension Service Publications
- Benefits of Prescribed Burning
- Designing A Prescribed Fire Demonstration Area
- Developing Land In Florida With Fire In Mind
- Effects of Fire on Florida's Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat
- Prescribed Burning Regulations in Florida
State & Federal Agencies
- Florida
Division of Forestry Field Operations Offices
(must contact your District Office before you burn for an authorization)