Shenandoah
National Park To Keep Big Meadow a Meadow
As part of an ongoing ecological maintenance
project, portions of the Big Meadow were burned in spring
2005 in accordance with the Shenandoah National Park Big Meadows
Management Plan. This year’s burn included the 36-acre
western unit and the sections of the perimeter where the 137
acre meadow meets woodland. The purpose of the burns is to
reduce the amount woody shrubs. This will encourage sun-loving
flowering plants, including many of the park’s rare
species, and help to maintain the historic open vista.
On April 11, National Park Service firefighters
from Shenandoah, Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania
Battlefields, Antietam, and Harpers Ferry were joined
by forces from the George Washington and Jefferson National
Forests. Additionally, park staff worked with local media
to tell the story of prescribed fire in the meadow. Results
included a front page story and a second story being picked
up by the Associated Press for wider distribution.
Contact: Barb Stewart, Regional Fire
Education, Prevention, and Information Specialist
Phone: (434) 977-1375 x3365
