Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the Illinois Prescribed Fire Council (IPFC) are collaborating to urge all prescribed fire practitioners to "map your burn" and contribute to the annual Illinois Prescribed Fires Accomplished Map.

Illinois, known as the Prairie State, has a rich natural history dominated by prairies, which were historically shaped and sustained by fire. From prairies to wetlands, savannas to woodlands, fire has played a crucial role in shaping Illinois' natural communities for thousands of years. Prescribed fire - also referred to as Rx fire or controlled burning - is considered the most effective management practice for maintaining and restoring essential fire-dependent ecosystems.

Prescribed fire not only enhances habitat for flora and fauna but also plays a significant role in reducing fuel loads and mitigating the risk of brushfires and wildfires. Additionally, it serves as a cost-effective tool for combating invasive species and safeguarding the integrity of Illinois' natural areas.

The success of prescribed burns depends on diligent application of fire and adherence to safety measures. The Illinois Prescribed Fire Council is committed to promoting the safe and continued use of prescribed fire across the state. As part of this mission, IPFC encourages practitioners to "Map Your Burn" on the Annual Illinois Prescribed Fires Accomplished Map.

"Our data collection revealed a pressing need for more prescribed burns annually to counteract rapid ecosystem degradation caused by the absence of fire," said John McCabe, president of the Illinois Prescribed Fire Council. "The future health of Illinois' natural areas hinges on the collective efforts of conservation agencies, private and public landowners, managers, and stewards working together to reintroduce fire into the landscape."

Mapping a prescribed burn is a simple process. Participants are required to email ILRXFiresAccomplished@gmail.com with a shapefile or a KMZ file, including the date of the burn or burning season. Multiple burn units can be submitted as a single file or as individual files for each burn.

"The map showcases the fire community across the state and sends the message that we are all working together," said IDNR Assistant Director Todd Strole. "Done correctly in optimal conditions, prescribed fire is an effective and safe tool for fostering plant growth, managing invasive species, reducing wildfires, promoting biodiversity, and many more benefits."