Prairies are defined as open landscapes with a variety of grasses and wildflowers and few if any trees and shrubs. Savannas are similar to prairies with a ground layer of prairie species, but have a higher density of trees (oak or aspen) clumped or scattered throughout. Both of these native plant communities are fire-dependent ecosystems. Prairies and savannas in the Minneapolis park system are typically scheduled for burning once every two to three years.

Safety of Prescribed Burns
Prescribed burns conducted by the MPRB are carefully managed to ensure safety:

• Burns are supervised by staff that has Minnesota Department of Natural Resources burn certification.
• Prescribed burns follow a plan that specifies the minimum number of people in the burn crew, the safety equipment that must be on hand, and proper weather conditions such as temperature, wind speed and direction, and humidity.
• Notification post cards are mailed to property owners near the burn site in advance of the burn.

Prescribed Burns and Animal Inhabitants

What happens to wildlife during prescribed burns? Sites are walked through just prior to conducting the burn to move animals out of the area. Small sections of the restoration site are burned, allowing safe areas for animals to move into. During prescribed burns, most animals find cover by retreating into burrows, flying away or moving to surrounding areas. Many species benefit in the long run from the habitat improvements resulting from a prescribed burn.

More Information

• About Prescribed Burns
• Prairie and savanna areas