Public Information Meetings Scheduled for Prescribed Fires

Date: November 8, 2010
Contact: Lauren Gurniewicz, 580-622-7282

 The public is invited to attend meetings to discuss upcoming prescribed burns that will take place this fall and winter at Chickasaw National Recreation Area.  The meetings will be held at the Travertine Nature Center in Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Sulphur, Oklahoma, at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, November 15 and at the Dougherty Town Hall, 14 N. 1^st St., Dougherty, Oklahoma, at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 16. National Park Service fire managers will be available to detail fire plans, discuss smoke possibilities, and answer questions.

The burns are a part of the National Park Service’s prescribed fire program to help protect local communities from the catastrophic effects of uncontrolled wildland fires while promoting the natural ecosystem’s ability to thrive. The dates of the burning will depend on weather conditions.  Fires will be ignited when environmental factors such as temperature, wind direction, relative humidity, and fuel moisture levels are within a very specific range. Qualified personnel will monitor the fires throughout the burn period.

The scientific use of fire is a management tool that benefits animals, plants and people. Well-planned and executed fires promote the healthy growth of native plants, which support the variety and abundance of birds and animals found in these natural areas.

For more information, contact Chief of Resource Management Steve Burrough, 580 622-7261.