Ft Worth Times

Fort Worth Park & Recreation has been a trailblazer in using prescribed fire as a powerful tool for reducing wildfire risks, enhancing public safety and enriching the local ecosystem since the early 1980s.

Added benefit: The department’s decades-long commitment to prescribed fire serves as a training tool for the Fort Worth Fire Department and neighboring fire agencies. This hands-on experience equips firefighters with skills and knowledge related to wildfire management. As wildfires continue to pose a threat to communities, this practical training is invaluable for ensuring the safety of residents and first responders.

What they’re saying: “Prescribed fire is a very valuable tool for us. Not only does it help us prepare for wildfire events, but it also allows us to collaborate with other agencies and enhance our emergency response capabilities,” said Fire Cpt. Cody Stilwell.

Jared Hall, natural resource specialist in Park & Recreation, added: “By conducting prescribed fires, we’re significantly reducing the accumulation of flammable materials in our parks and green spaces. This means if a wildfire does occur, it’s less likely to become uncontrollable, ensuring the safety of the community.”

What’s involved? Prescribed fire is not a haphazard process; it involves rigorous planning, strict adherence to safety protocols and the acquisition of various permits to guarantee minimal impact on the community.

Fort Worth Park & Recreation collaborates closely with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and City of Fort Worth Bureau of Fire Prevention to develop and execute safe, effective prescribed fire plans.

Park Director Richard Zavala discussed Fort Worth’s commitment to responsible land management: “We understand that Fort Worth's natural beauty is one of our greatest assets. Prescribed fire allows us to protect our parks, reduce the risk of wildfires and promote a healthier ecosystem — all while minimizing any potential impact on our residents.”

Upcoming burns: Prescribed fire permit requests have recently been submitted for Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge, Chisholm Trail Park, Rolling Hills Tree Farm, Casino Beach Park and Fort Worth Botanic Garden, with plans to burn between December and February, when there is appropriate weather. Notifications will be sent to surrounding neighbors as plans to implement a prescribed fire materialize.

Original source can be found here.