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News Release Date: March 3, 2021
Contact:
Laura Henning, 321-267-1110 ext. 25
Canaveral National Seashore is planning to implement prescribed burn operations in the Scrub Jay Burn Unit of Playalinda Beach district (Titusville). Weather permitting, ignition operations are expected in March 2021. The target burn window is only an estimate and may change depending on environmental conditions, national preparedness level, Superintendent's approval, and resource availability. The project area includes 2 units for a total area of 1,052 acres There may be short traffic delays during the time of the burn.
The Playalinda Beach Scrub Jay 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 visit www.nps.gov/cana and monitor the park’s Facebook page @CanaveralNatlSeashore.
Last updated: March 3, 2021