While parts of Iowa are still underwater, prescribed burns are planned this spring in three northwestern Iowa counties. It’s a management tool used to help diversify the landscape and create a stable environment in woodlands and grasslands. Pete Hildreth, wildlife bureau supervisor at the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, says burns are done routinely around the state.
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This round of burning aims to keep exotic grasses under control, while replenishing the ground with nutrients. Hildreth says removing last year’s grasses is an important part of helping some native species thrive.
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The D-N-R is planning prescribed burning in Dickinson, Cherokee and O’Brien counties over the next several weeks. The agency burns an area once every four to five years.