Local residents will often see notices about a controlled or prescribed burn which will take place in a particular section of land. The public is given plenty of notice and the local fire department typically coordinates with the Alabama Forestry Commission, to manage the burn. All of this effort is done to prevent fuel for fires to build up.

The recent catastrophe in California has brought attention to the States that have less ground fuel, which can prevent a fire from spreading. Some environmentalist believe that prescribed burns cause damage to the air quality and poses a risk to people, property and animals.

The coastal region of Alabama has adapted a regular schedule to certain land parcels to make sure a controlled/ prescribed burn will be safe for residents and they are only conducted on low wind days.

Controlled burns are generally considered good for the environment as they can help reduce the risk of large, destructive wildfires by removing excess fuel, improve wildlife habitats by mimicking natural fire cycles, and promote the growth of certain native plant species in fire-dependent ecosystems; making them a valuable tool for forest management.

Other Benefits:

• Habitat restoration:
• Many plant and animal species depend on periodic fires to regenerate and thrive, so controlled burns can help maintain healthy ecosystems. 
• Invasive species control:
• Controlled burns can be used to suppress the growth of invasive plants that don't tolerate fire, allowing native species to flourish. 
• Nutrient cycling:
• Fire can release nutrients back into the soil, improving its fertility and promoting new plant growth.

So next time you have to re-route your drive or smell smoke dur to a controlled burn, be thankful for the men and women who coordinate to keep our forest clean and free of fire causing fuels.