April 25, 2023

Prescribed burns scheduled today in four locations

Prescribed burns are scheduled today to improve wildlife habitat or reduce wildfire risk in Clare, Gratiot, Huron and Ogemaw counties. More information: 

Clare County: A burn in Franklin Township starting in midafternoon will cover 5 acres and benefit a variety of wildlife species.

Gratiot County: Burns in Hamilton, Washington and Elba townships will cover a combined 60 acres. Burns will start around 2 p.m. and benefit multiple wildlife species.

Huron County: A burn in Verona Township covering 200 acres will start at approximately 2 p.m. and benefit wildlife species.

Ogemaw County: A burn in Foster Township starting around 2 p.m. will cover 80 acres and create fuel breaks to reduce wildfire risk. 

Prescribed burns are one way the Michigan Department of Natural Resources keeps lands and forests healthy. The burns are conducted by highly trained DNR personnel in designated state-managed areas during appropriate weather conditions and in cooperation with the proper authorities and local units of government.

Public safety is a top priority during all prescribed burns, which sometimes are canceled at the last minute due to careful monitoring of weather and wind conditions.

The "Prescribed Burns" story map – including stories, photos and videos – takes a detailed look at how prescribed burns work. For more information on the DNR’s fire management activity, visit Michigan.gov/FireManagement.