News Release

Big Cypress National Preserve Begins 2026 Prescribed Fire Season

NPS Maps

News Release Date: January 8, 2026
Contact: Riki Hoopes

OCHOPEE, FL - National Park Service South Florida Fire & Aviation will conduct a series of prescribed fire operations across Big Cypress National Preserve over the coming months, as weather conditions and other parameters permit. The planned treatment areas cover approximately 81,002 acres in 4 separate burn treatment units, strategically placed throughout the preserve as part of a multi-year fuels treatment plan.

Fires are a natural and important ecosystem function for Florida’s environment. Using prescribed fire as a land management tool helps reduce the risk of wildfires to communities and developed areas. Fire benefits the ecosystem by renewing wildlife habitats and promoting ecological diversity.

As prescribed fire operations are implemented, some visitor impacts are anticipated. Temporary closures are expected to ensure visitor and firefighter safety during operations. The public will be advised of specific area closures by press release, web alert, and posting of signs in appropriate areas. Visitors are encouraged to check the website daily in order to ensure roads, trails and access areas are open to the public.

Please utilize the provided map of 2026 planned treatment areas when planning activities, including hunting, within the preserve. 

For information regarding fire management and the impacts on turkey populations please refer to the following links.

https://southernfireexchange.org/wp-content/uploads/2018-8.pdf
https://wildturkeylab.com/wild-turkeys-and-prescribed-fire-part-1-southern-fire-exchange/
https://wildturkeylab.com/wild-turkeys-and-prescribed-fire-part-2-southern-fire-exchange/

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