News Release

Canaveral National Seashore will implement prescribed burn operations in the Apollo Beach district (New Smyrna Beach) on Sunday, March 1, 2020.

Date: February 28, 2020
Contact: Laura Henning

Canaveral National Seashore will implement prescribed burn operations in the Apollo Beach district (New Smyrna Beach) on Sunday, March 1, 2020. The project area includes seven units for a total area of 1,269 acres. The Apollo district will not open for normal operations on Sunday, the Playalinda Beach district (Titusville) will open as scheduled. There will be no access to the beach or Visitor Center in Apollo for the duration of the burn. The Apollo boat ramp will remain open. Backcountry campsites will remain open.

The Apollo Beach Burn Plan was developed in accordance with Canaveral National Seashore’s Fire Management Plan to support the park’s structural protection plan while allowing fire to play its natural role in the environment.

The burn will employ prescribed fire in order to reduce hazardous fuels in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI), protect structures and cultural resources adjacent to the burn unit, and to promote a healthy fire frequency. This will be a joint operation with Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The purpose is to reduce unnaturally high levels of fuel that could ignite from lightning strikes during the summer. The operation will also improve habitat for the federally protected Florida Scrub Jay and Eastern Indigo Snake.

Public safety is paramount. Canaveral National Seashore staff and its partners are working together to ensure a safe and successful burn event. For up to date information on the prescribed burn monitor the park’s Facebook page @CanaveralNatlSeashore.