Two controlled burns will soon be taking place at the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area. Superintendent Cindy Ott-Jones says those burns will take place between January and May, depending on favorable weather conditions. The burn units are located in the Rosita campground area and the Mullinaw crossing area at the southern end of the park.
The purpose for the burns is to reduce hazardous vegetation and restore the park's prairie grasslands to their natural cycle of growth. The reintroduction of fire into the ecosystem promotes historical grasslands and habitat for wildlife. Prescribed fire reduces the dangers associated with catastrophic wildfires that could threaten public and firefighter safety and local communities or ranchlands.
Fire crews will begin preparing the for the controlled burn this month. They will spend several weeks removing brush and other fuels from the perimeter of the burn.
During the prescribed burns some of the area will be closed to the public. Authorized travelers in the area should proceed with caution by reducing vehicle speed and turning on their headlights when smoke is present.
