Residents and visitors near Savannas Preserve State Park in Port St. Lucie should expect to see smoke Friday, July 31, as state crews plan to carry out a prescribed burn covering roughly 170 acres. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection announced the burn is contingent on suitable weather conditions.
The targeted area is a stretch of mesic flatwoods located north of Walton Road and west of Sandhill Crane Park. Before crews light up, they'll review the day's fire weather forecast and secure final authorization from the Florida Forest Service. The St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office also shared an advisory to keep the surrounding community in the loop.
Prescribed burns are a routine and important tool in Florida land management. They mimic the natural fire cycle that Florida's ecosystems evolved with, clearing out accumulated undergrowth that could otherwise feed a much more destructive wildfire. Officials note that recently burned areas often see a boost in native wildflowers, birds, and other wildlife as the habitat recovers.
If Friday's weather doesn't cooperate, the burn will be postponed to a more suitable day. No road closures or evacuations were mentioned in connection with the planned activity.
This story was reported by CBS12.
