Setting prescribed fires in controlled settings can reduce the risk of wildfires burning out of control, as many Floridians witnessed during the state's wildfire emergency in early spring. That's why the Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) will be conducting prescribed burns during the next 12 months within the Green Swamp, including the Green Swamp East, Green Swamp West, Hampton and Upper Hillsborough properties. These properties are located in eastern Pasco, southeastern Sumter, southwestern Lake and northern Polk counties.
Approximately 20,000 acres will be burned in manageable units.
Some major benefits of prescribed fire include:
•Reducing overgrown plants, which decreases the risk of catastrophic wildfires
•Promoting the growth of new, diverse plants
•Maintaining the character and condition of wildlife habitat
•Maintaining access for public recreation
The District conducts prescribed fires on approximately 30,000 acres each year. Click here for a quick look at what it's like along the fire line.
