SWFWMD to conduct prescribed fires, Citrus/Marion counties, Jan.-Mar., to reduce risk of willdfires
Aerial view by SWFWMD of prescribed fire in near Dunnellon, FL, Oct. 13, 2021.
Setting prescribed fires in controlled settings can reduce the risk of wildfires burning out of control, as many Floridians witnessed during the state’s wildfire emergency in 2017. That’s why the Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) will be conducting prescribed burns January through March in Marion and Citrus counties in Florida.
Some of the major benefits of prescribed fire include:
Reducing overgrown plants, which decreases the risk of catastrophic wildfires.
Promoting the growth of new, diverse plants.
Maintaining the character and condition of wildlife habitat.
Maintaining access for public recreation.
The District conducts prescribed fires on approximately 30,000 acres each year.
MARION COUNTY, FLORIDA
During January through March, 2022, SWFWMD will be conducting prescribed fire on the Hálpata Tastanaki Preserve
Hálpata Tastanaki Preserve
The Hálpata Tastanaki Preserve is located 2 miles east of Dunnellon, Florida and 7 miles northeast of Hernando, Florida, bounded by County Road 484 on the north, State Road 200 on the southeast and the Withlacoochee River on the southwest. Approximately 800 acres will be burned in small, manageable units.
CITRUS COUNTY, FLORIDA
During January through March, 2022, SWFWMD will be conducting prescribed fire on Potts Preserve, the Flying Eagle Preserve and the Chassahowitzka River and Coastal Swamps in Citrus County.
Potts Preserve
Potts Preserve is located approximately 2 miles east of Hernando, Florida and three and a half miles north-northeast of Inverness, Florida. The property is east and southeast of State Road 200 and north of Turner Camp Road, andbordered by the Withlacoochee River on the east. Approximately 1,000 acres will be burned in small, manageable units.
Flying Eagle Preserve
Flying Eagle Preserve is located southeast of Inverness, Florida and approximately 8 miles west of the Interstate 75 and Highway 44 interchange. Approximately 700 acres will be burned in small, manageable units.
Chassahowitzka River and Coastal Swamps
Chassahowitzka River and Coastal Swamps is located south of Homosassa, Florida, approximately 1.5 miles west of U.S. Highway 19. Approximately 50 acres will be burned.