The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) will conduct prescribed burns, also known as prescribed fires, in controlled settings, now through the month of June on the Starkey Wilderness Preserve and the Cypress Creek Preserve. Setting fires in this manner can reduce the risk of wildfires burning out of control by mimicking “the natural process and benefits of fires in Florida’s ecosystems,” according to the District’s website.
The Starkey preserve is about 7 miles east of New Port Richey. The District will burn about 300 acres in small, manageable units.
Cypress Creek is east of Ehren Cutoff, 1 mile south of State Road 52. The District plans to burn about 100 acres in small, manageable units.
Prescribed fires include these benefits:
- Protects and enhances water resources
- Reduces overgrown plants, vegetative fuel buildup
- Promotes the growth of new diverse plants
- Maintains the character and condition of wildlife habitat
- Maintains access for public recreation.
For more information, visit https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/ and search “prescribed burns.”
Published May 01, 2024
