WI DNR working on winter prescribed burns

Winter prescribed burns are beginning across Wisconsin, according to the DNR.

The State’s Department of Natural Resources says fire management crews are starting to perform prescribed burns on DNR properties throughout the state, where local conditions can provide a safe and effective burn.

The DNR says crews will be burning cattail marshes and wetlands to clear buildup of dead vegetation and open waterways for waterfowl to feed and nest. By burning in the winter, the DNR can take advantage of wet conditions and frozen ground, which reduces the heat and intensity of cattail marsh burns.

Additional windows of opportunity for prescribed burning will continue through the spring, and open again in late summer and fall.

When conducting prescribed burns near roads or recreational trails, the DNR will post signs to notify the public. For your safety, we ask you to please avoid these areas while the burn is being conducted. The DNR also notifies local law enforcement and fire officials in advance about when and where DNR prescribed burns will take place.

To view the status of where prescribed burns are currently happening across the state, visit the DNR WisBURN page. For a more detailed look at historic, current and planned DNR prescribed burns, visit the DNR Prescribed Fire Dashboard.