Prescribed burning is the planned application of fire to a forest stand with the intent of keeping the fire within a confined area. This silvicultural tool allows forest managers manipulate the stand to achieve a desired outcome. One of the primary reasons to use controlled fire it to limit the amount of fuel build up on the ground and lessen the potential impact of wildfire. The widespread use of prescribed fire is one of the reasons the southeastern United States does not experience catastrophic fires seen in other regions of the country. Another benefit of prescribed burning is that it helps control competition and allow your crop trees to flourish. It is also necessary for some species, like longleaf pine to become established.
Of course, the use of fire, even a controlled fire, can be dangerous. Landowners are cautioned to take all necessary precautions to make sure the fire does not escape. This includes the use of professionals to conduct the burn.
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