The St. Johns River Water Management District will be conducting a 54-acre controlled burn on Julington-Durbin Preserve in Jacksonville on Thursday. The purpose of this burn is to maintain the health of the sandhill ecosystem and encourage the growth and seed production of wiregrass within the block. Ignition should begin by 10:30 a.m.
Prescribed fire is the use of carefully planned fire purposefully set under stringent conditions to control the fire’s effects. Its benefits include restoring and maintaining natural communities, reducing chances of destructive wildfires, perpetuating fire-adapted plants and animals, cycling nutrients, controlling tree diseases and opening scenic vistas.
Before conducting a burn, the District ensures that wind and other weather conditions are correct for controlling the fire and minimizing the impacts of smoke to residents and traffic.
