MDC workshop shows prescribed fire as land, wildlife management tool

Landowners can learn to use prescribed fire as a land management tool at a Prescribed Fire Workshop presented by the Missouri Department of Conservation, Tuesday, Aug. 11, at Mineral Area College in Park Hills. (Photo by Erin Tuttle)

CAPE GIRARDEAU -- Landowners can learn to use prescribed fire as a land management tool at a Prescribed Fire Workshop presented by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Tuesday, Aug. 11, at Mineral Area College in Park Hills. This workshop will be given two different times to provide landowners a better opportunity to attend. The first will be from 1 to 4:30 p.m. and the second from 6 to 9:30 p.m.

Prescribed fire is an ancient technique used to manage grasslands, CRP and old fields for forage production and improvement of wildlife habitat. Used first by Native Americans, the technique is now taught by MDC across the state.

"Prescribed fire is a low cost method for landowners to use," said Julie Norris, one of MDC's Private Lands Conservationists.

Norris said the workshop will include classroom discussions on methods, equipment, safety, and why and when to use fire as a management tool. Emphasis will include how to conduct a safe and effective burn to control sprouts, encourage beneficial plants and create better quality quail habitat. Norris said participation in this workshop will qualify landowners to have a prescribed burn plan prepared for their fields and use available loan equipment.

Attendees will also be invited to optional demonstration burns held later to demonstrate the use of tools and techniques.

To register for one of the workshops, please contact MDC at (573) 290-5730. For more information about prescribed fire, go online to www.mdc.mo.gov/your-property.