NORTH ALABAMA-TVA Natural Resources Management has started its prescribed fire program on public lands in Alabama. Counties where burns may be carried out include Colbert, Franklin, Jackson, Lauderdale, Limestone, Marion, and Marshall. All prescribed fire use is subject to favorable weather conditions and the availability of fire personnel. The planned time period for burning is December 2023 to March 2024.
Prescribed burns, sometimes referred to as controlled burns, are valuable tools to protect and improve natural resources. They can help maintain and establish wildlife habitat, and reduce thatch and leaves that help fuel wildfires. Burns also stimulate the growth of desirable vegetation and recycle nutrients back into the soil.
Safety is a top priority. Fire managers from several state agencies, including the Alabama Forestry Commission, are partnering to prepare written prescribed burn plans. A prescription is a set of conditions that considers the safety of the public and fire team members, land management objectives and favorable weather. Proper permits are obtained and landowners within a reasonable distance of the burn are notified of the intent to burn as well as the local volunteer fire departments. The plans are prepared and the safety measures taken are vital to safely meeting the site specific land management objectives. Prior to and during firing operations, all weather conditions are closely monitored to ensure prescription parameters are met. TVA and partners have safely conducted prescribed burns on more than 20,000 acres of public land in recent years.
Media Release/Clarissa McClain/Senior Communications Consultant, South Region TVA
