Source: NCDA&CS, 4/4/22


Many people associate fire with destruction, devastation and loss. Large clouds of smoke, burly orange blazes, tree limbs snapping and ash falling like snow are some of the images we’ve all seen that contribute to the “fire is bad” perception. While wildfires can reach a dangerous and destructive level quickly, not all fire is bad. In fact, one of the most effective tools in reducing the risk of devastating wildfires is fire itself. Good fires are planned prescribed fires to help improve wildlife habitat and promote healthier forests while reducing the risks and impacts of wildfire. Prescribed fires are set intentionally in a defined area for specific management objectives. The N.C. Forest Service is committed to its efforts to increase the use of prescribed fire, while continuing to educate the public of its many benefits.

Fire is a natural part of the environment and frequently occurs throughout North Carolina. Many forests require fire to remain healthy, and prescribed fire is an important, low-cost tool used to achieve that. Prescribed fire helps consume surface fuels and undesired vegetation while minimizing fire impacts to trees. Many plants and animals easily survive the low intensity burns. There are a variety of prescribed burns, known as understory or in-stand burns, including hazard reduction burning, wildlife and silvicultural and site preparation burning.

Hazard reduction burning diminishes understory shrubs, vines, leaves and woody debris that act as fuel for wildfires. This burning method usually takes place in the fall or winter when conditions are favorable for reducing potential damage to the trees and making fire intensity manageable.

Wildlife and silvicultural burning helps manage forestlands by allowing many species to grow and thrive. This burning practice increases sunlight reaching the ground, promoting fresh growth of low-growing shrubs, native grasses and herbaceous plants for wildlife food and habitat. It also controls the spread of some tree diseases, providing more growing space for healthier trees and prepares seedbed for natural regeneration of native trees. It’s also been proven to be an effective and cheap method for controlling tick populations and reducing the risk of tick-borne disease.

Site preparation burning, known as “site prep,” clears the way for reforestation activities by removing excessive woody debris and undesirable vegetation. This allows for new planting or the natural regeneration of tree seedlings. The practice of using fire, supported by science-driven recommendations, has become an established management tool that benefits all walks of life.