Wildfire Fire Forest

Pasco County Prescribed Burns Aim To Reduce Wildfire Risk

Wildfire Fire Forest
Wildfire Source: TFP File

PASCO COUNTY, Fla. – The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) is conducting prescribed burns in Pasco County to reduce the risk of uncontrolled wildfires.

These controlled burns will take place from now through March at three locations: Starkey Wilderness Preserve, Conner Preserve, and Cypress Creek Preserve.  

Prescribed Burn Locations:

  • Starkey Wilderness Preserve: Located east of New Port Richey, west of the Suncoast Parkway, north of State Road 54, and south of State Road 52. Approximately 500 acres will be burned.  
  • Conner Preserve: Located south of State Road 52 and west of Ehren Cutoff. Approximately 300 acres will be burned.  
  • Cypress Creek Preserve: Located east of Ehren Cutoff, one mile south of State Road 52. Approximately 400 acres will be burned.

READ: Pasco County Firefighters Extinguish Garage Fire In Dade City

Prescribed fires offer several benefits, including:

  • Reduced wildfire risk: By reducing overgrown vegetation, prescribed burns help prevent uncontrolled wildfires.  
  • Plant diversity: Burning encourages the growth of new and diverse plant life.  
  • Wildlife habitat: Prescribed fires help maintain the health and diversity of wildlife habitats.  
  • Recreation access: Burns help maintain access for public recreation in these natural areas.  

The District conducts prescribed fires on approximately 30,000 acres each year as part of its land management strategy. These controlled burns are a safe and effective way to manage natural resources and reduce the risk of wildfires.  

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