Fire is a natural component in how an ecosystem functions and evolves. In the absence of humans, wildfires can be ignited by lightening strikes when vegetation is dry and the temperature and humidity are at levels that support burning. Following a fire, many native plants rebound, some by the germination of seed stock stored in the soil and others by sprouting from roots that have stored energy. Other native plants do not regrow and their return to the burned area is from nearby populations.

Native Americans were known to use fire for a variety of reasons, from clearing an area for agriculture to the improved habitat for animals to hunt. As our country has become more settled and more urban, fire has become feared by the public due to the threat it poses to life and property. Though wildfires are certainly dangerous, their affects can be mitigated by land managers and homeowners.

Moreover, the use of fire can be controlled through careful pre-planning, training, monitoring of fuels, and staging of resources to maximize its benefits as a land management tool. Many land managers across the country have gradually begun to reincorporate prescribed fire into their activities because it can be one of the most effective and cost-efficient methods for habitat management.

In 2006, the Wildland Conservation Division hired a Fire Management Specialist to address the two facets of the fire issue for the City's wildlands: prescribed fire and wildfire.

Many of the City-owned wildlands are conserved alongside urban and suburban development. It is vital that communication and partnership exist on “both sides of the fence” to address concerns about fire. City-owned wildlands exist due to community-based directives that must be included as part of the discussion. The Wildland Conservation Division staff is working towards better communication and partnership through cooperation and planning with local fire departments, employing innovative land management techniques, and reaching out to educate citizens.” To request a presentation about fire topics and homeowner preparedness, submit a request form or contact the Division's fire management specialist for more information via email or at (512) 972-1683.