Where There’s Smoke … FVPD Prescribed Burns Start Nov. 1
Beginning Nov. 1, the Fox Valley Park District will resume its program of prescribed burns at selected park sites and natural areas.
For decades, the FVPD has conducted these specialized burns for their ecological benefits. Fire plays an essential role in creating healthy ecosystems by reducing the abundance of invasive, non-native plant species.
Prescribed burns create a setting for beneficial native plants and wildflowers to flourish. Burning also releases nutrients into the soil, encourages new seed growth and opens woodland floors to allow increased sunlight that spurs vibrant growth and promotes plant diversity.
“Fire has occurred naturally for thousands of years, and plays an essential role in healthy, native ecosystems,” said Monkia Kastle, Natural Areas Specialist. “Burning creates greater biodiversity and the positive effects are beneficial to woodlands, prairies, wetlands and the wildlife that inhabit these areas.”
Prior to conducting a prescribed burn, trained staff survey the burn area to create a detailed plan of action. Sites are burned according to dryness of vegetation, wind direction/speed and other variables, so exact dates and times for specific burns are dependent upon conditions. Most times, it is a day-of decision.
Following is a list of potential sites targeted for burning between Nov. 1, 2016, and May 15, 2017:
First Priority
- Aurora Prairie
- Blackberry Trail Park
- Cheshire Lake Park
- Church Road Park
- Eola Hill
- Orchard and Prairie (VG Trail)
- South Broadway
- Stuart Sports Complex
- Waubonsie Lake
Second Priority
- Arrowood Park
- Galena Blvd. bridge (VG Trail)
- Hoscheit Park
- New Haven
- Propernick Park
- Simmons Park
- Stonegate Park
- Willow Lake
- Wingfoot Park
Third Priority
- Barnes Road
- Blackberry Farm
- Chesterfield Park
- Golfview Park
- Lippold Park
- Meadow Lake Park
- South Island Park
- Splash Country Water Park
- Tanner Trails Park
- Turnstone Park
View locations for these sites on the FVPD’s interactive parks map. The FVPD makes every effort to notify neighboring residents as to when a prescribed burn will take place. For the latest details and announcements, check the Park District website and Facebook page. For questions, please call 630-897-0516.
SOURCE: Fox Valley Park District news release
About the Fox Valley Park District
The Fox Valley Park District is a dynamic and growing park district that serves a diverse population of more than 233,000 people. Recognized as an Illinois Distinguished Agency, Fox Valley holds the nation’s highest honor as a National Gold Medal Award winner for excellence in park and recreation management. Serving the communities of Aurora, Montgomery and North Aurora, the district maintains 165 parks and 48 miles of inter-connected regional trails amid 2,500 acres of parkland. For more information, visit FoxValleyParkDistrict.org or the Fox Valley Park District Facebook page.
