Fighting Fire with Fire: Prescribed Burning in State Parks
At first glance, it seems quite odd to set fires intentionally, but prescribed fires are great management practices to support forest health and prevent wildfires.
Prescribed burns, also known as controlled burns or prescribed fire, refer to the controlled application of fire by experts, and are dependent on weather conditions, such as wind, temperature, and humidity.
Controlled burns reduce hazardous fuels such as sticks, leaves, and pine needles that build up on the forest floor over time and can lead to wildfires. Reducing these fuels at regular intervals is a valuable tool for protecting communities and neighbors around South Carolina State Parks from future wildfires.
Fire is a natural part of the landscape, so wildlife and the habitat benefit from prescribed burns. Fire removes thick undergrowth, making travel and feeding much easier. It also promotes new growth of food for wildlife. In addition to this, fire minimizes the spread of pest insects, recycles nutrients back into the soil, and improves habitat for threatened and endangered species.
“Prescribed burning is one of the many forest management tools SC State Parks uses to create and maintain valuable habitat for our native wildlife species, increase forest health, and manage for resilience to the effects of climate change. Prescribed fire on state parks is only possible through interagency partnerships and allows us to engage with and educate our visitors about the importance of active forest management and conservation,” says SCPRT Forester, Rachel Snuggs.
Prescribed burns in the following parks have either recently been conducted or are planned in 2024
- Cheraw State Park in Chesterfield County
- Devils Fork State Park in Oconee County
- Keowee-Toxaway State Park in Pickens County
- Lee State Park in Lee County
- Oconee State Park in Oconee County
- Poinsett State Park in Sumter County
- Ramsey Grove State Park in Georgetown County
- Table Rock State Park in Pickens County
When a burn is scheduled, park officials make every effort to notify the public of any disruption to the visitor experience. Trails and roads in and around the parks may be temporarily closed during burns, and any closures will be clearly posted. Please check park advisories on our website when planning your trip.
To learn more about prescribed burns in South Carolina and view burn notifications, please visit the South Carolina Forestry Commission’s website.
