Pea Ridge National Military Park is set to conduct prescribed burns on up to 1,284 acres of fields and forest between November 20 and December 31, contingent on favorable weather. Park Superintendent Shelley Todd announced that the controlled burns aim to preserve the historic landscape of the battlefield while reducing fire fuel loads and invasive plant species.
“Fire is a natural process, and it has been a part of the Arkansas landscape for thousands of years,” said Todd. “Prescribed fire is a way for land managers to utilize fire as a tool in a carefully planned manner, while following very specific weather and personnel guidelines to protect public safety and achieve our resource management objectives.”
To ensure visitor safety, certain park roads and trails may be temporarily closed during and shortly after the burns. While efforts are being made to reduce smoke impact on surrounding communities, individuals sensitive to smoke are advised to limit outdoor activities on burn days.
For updates on scheduled burns, visitors can contact the park’s Visitor Center at (479) 451-8122.
