Cool-season burns can help manage forage, increase native vegetation and improve quail habitat.

Fire is a fearsome force that can destroy everything in its path. When carefully managed, it also can be a friend to wildlife habitat and agriculture. Prescribed burns — fires that are planned, set and managed — are an effective, efficient and inexpensive land management tool used by many public and private landowners.

Preparation is key to a successful prescribed burn. When properly planned and executed, prescribed burns can remove unwanted vegetation, making room for crops to feed grazing livestock or native plants that can provide forage and habitat for wildlife. These four steps should be followed for a safe, successful prescribed burn, no matter how small or large.

1. Develop a written plan with:
   • Goals for the burn.
   • Photo or sketch of the property.
   • Description of how the burn will be conducted, including precautions such as adequate firebreaks, necessary equipment, and fire pattern and direction.
   • Assessment of vegetation conditions: types of plants and their moisture content and susceptibility to fire.
   • Schedule of activities and assignments from start to finish.
   • What to do and who to call in an emergency.
2. Notify neighbors, local law enforcement and fire departments beforehand. Check for specific local regulations. Identify and address potentially adverse conditions, such as limited visibility on roads and health and safety of neighboring residents, businesses and livestock.
3. Check weather conditions before and during the burn. The National Weather Service provides local weather data and forecasts for prescribed burns on request. Ideally, air temperature is between 40 and 60 degrees, humidity is 40 to 60 percent, and winds are eight to 23 miles an hour.
4. Don't work alone, use the right equipment and know your limits. Provide cell phones or two-way radios to everyone involved. Have water on hand. Wear protective clothing and gloves and avoid synthetic fabrics that aren't flame retardant. If you have little or no experience, consider hiring a professional to assist you. Contact your local office of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service for prescribed burn classes and planning assistance.

Ted Reiley is a natural resources conservation coordinator for LCRA. He can be reached at 1-800-776-5272, Ext. 2794, or ted.reiley@lcra.org.

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