News Release
You are viewing ARCHIVED content published online before January 20, 2025.
Please note that this content is NOT UPDATED, and links may not work. For current information,
visit https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/news/index.htm.
Subscribe
 |
What is RSS
|
Contact: Robin Barker, 912-882-4336 x 254
St. Marys, GA - Cumberland Island National Seashore is looking to carry out a prescribed burn in the coming weeks of a debris pile located on the southern end of the island at a location known locally as Raccoon Key. The operation will be conducted weather permitting. Impacts are expected to be minimal though visitors may see and smell some smoke when near the area.
The pile covers approximately two acres and consists of dried vegetation cleared from the island landscape as part of landscape maintenance and fuel thinning operations, in accordance with Cumberland Island’s Fire Management Plan. A carefully developed prescribed fire plan has been approved for this project. The National Park Service must meet a defined set of conditions before starting the prescribed burn including obtaining burning permits from the Georgia Forestry Commission. Fire managers will also look for acceptable burning conditions including favorable humidity, temperatures, and winds.
Smoke will be monitored to ensure that the Intracoastal Waterway, neighboring communities of St. Marys, Georgia and Fernandina Beach, Florida have minimal impacts. “Overall safety and smoke management are our primary concerns for this operation,” said Cumberland Island National Seashore Superintendent Gary Ingram.
Fire managers anticipate visible smoke for several days after the initial start of the burn. The prescribed fire will be conducted and monitored by trained, experienced National Park Service firefighters. Access to the area will be restricted while the fire is active.
###
Cumberland Island is the largest barrier island off the coast of Georgia, encompassing more than 36,000 acres of maritime forests, salt marsh, and beaches. The island is also home to more than 9,800 acres of congressionally designated wilderness. The island’s natural and cultural resources provide a rich and diverse habitat for wildlife and offer a glimpse into the long history of coastal Georgia. The seashore is accessible by pedestrian-only passenger ferry from the historic community of St. Marys.
About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America's national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Visit us at www.nps.gov, on Facebook www.facebook.com/nationalparkservice.
Last updated: January 12, 2021