SWFWMD schedules prescribed fires for Sarasota, Desoto, Charlotte Counties, March–June

The Land Management Section of the Southwest Florida Water Management District will be conducting prescribed burns during the months of March, April, May and June. According to Will VanGelder, the District’s land management manager, burns are implemented to mimic natural fire cycles under a controlled situation. The objective is to avert uncontrolled wildfires and enhance the area’s natural conditions by maintaining the ecological and wildlife habitat values. Prescribed burns are only conducted when weather conditions are optimal to meet the desired objectives and to minimize impacts to the public.

Although every effort will be made to assure that smoke does not affect homes or highways, vehicle operators should exercise caution if smoke reduces visibility on the area’s roads or highways.

SARASOTA COUNTY:Prescribed burns will be performed on Deer Prairie Creek Preserve and neighboring Schewe Tract. Deer Prairie Creek Preserve, which is jointly owned and managed by the District and Sarasota County, is located between Interstate 75 and US Highway 41. The Schewe Tract, which is located south and north of Interstate 75 just north of Deer Prairie Creek, is fully owned and managed by the District. Both of these parcels are located west of North Port. Approximately 1200 acres will be burned in small, manageable units.

DESOTO COUNTY:Prescribed burns will be performed on the Deep Creek Preserve in Desoto County. The Deep Creek Preserve is located northeast of Port Charlotte, west of King’s Highway and north of Deep Creek Estates. Approximately 370 acres will be burned, in small, manageable units.

CHARLOTTE COUNTY:Prescribed burns will be performed on the Prairie/Shell Creek Preserve in Charlotte County. The property is located to the west of US Highway 17, north of Shell Creek. Approximately 140 acres will be burned, in small, manageable units.