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MDC offers prescribed fire workshop for landowners in Vichy
VICHY, Mo. - 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) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 14 at the Vichy Volunteer Fire Protection firehouse. The workshop is free, but space is limited and you must preregister by March 12.
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 the MDC across the state.
MDC staff will discuss the history of fire on the landscape, benefits from prescribed fire, proper methods and techniques for implementing controlled burns, equipment and how to use resources from MDC and other agencies. Additionally, other topics that will be covered include creating a burn plan and timing the burn based on your management objectives and landscape, safety considerations, and proper weather conditions for conducting a burn. Plus, tips on how to organize burn teams and cooperatives will be offered.
“This workshop is great for new or current landowners who would like to learn about using prescribed fire as a tool to improve wildlife habitat on their property,” said MDC Private Land Conservationist Seth Barrioz. “While uncontrolled wildfires can harm habitat and property, controlled use of prescribed fire can actually improve the health of natural ecosystems.”
The workshop will begin with a classroom session. Weather permitting, a small demonstration burn on a nearby glade will be held to give participants hands-on experience. A brown bag lunch will be provided for registered participants.
The Vichy Volunteer Fire Protection firehouse is located at 16812 U.S. Highway 63 South, Vichy.
For more information or to register for the workshop, contact Barrioz at 573-897-3797, ext. 116.