Prairie Burn

The energy that occurs when you drop flame onto a dormant prairie, with a bunch 1hr fuels (quickest fuel to ignite), is madness.

You’re working with a myriad of elements that have the potential to take off, burn thousands of acres, demolish property and kill anything in its pathway; wind, fuel type, temp, relative humidity, and terrain are the elements of a Prairie Burn.

More in depth

Before igniting, think of this:

Humidity will determine whether or not the fuel will ignite quickly or more slowly. Wind will determine which way the fire will carry and how fast the head fire will get. Having a clear day also helps smoke escape into the atmosphere and not get caught in an inversion possibly contributing to local health hazards. Fuel type will also tell the strength and quickness of the burn.

Light It Up

Benefits of Fire

The nutrients from the left over ash adds nutrients back into the soil for the plants to soak in
With the tall vegetation removed, sunlight warms the blackened soil and helps germinate new seedlings and stimulate dormant ones.
It also eliminates invasive plants that are not used to fire. Remember, native prairies for centuries would light on fire from lightning strikes, or from native Americans trying to herd out buffalo.

There’s something very satisfying about completing a burn. Check in with your local DNR during fall and spring, and see if you can drop in on one of their burns.

Any questions, message me.