Wheaton, IL – A prescribed burn is being conducted today at St. James Farm Forest Preserve in DuPage County, according to the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. The planned burn is managed by trained crews as part of an ongoing ecological effort to restore native habitats and control invasive plant species.
According to the district, prescribed burns are a key land management tool used in late fall and early spring to recycle nutrients, clear out dead vegetation, and create space for native plants to thrive. By turning dried vegetation into ash, the process helps release nutrients back into the soil and improves growing conditions for native species.
Ecologists from the Forest Preserve District determine burn sites based on environmental conditions, plant growth patterns, and safety factors such as wind speed and humidity. Today’s burn is being carried out under monitored conditions to ensure public safety, and the district advises visitors to be aware of visible smoke in the area.
Prescribed burns also help prevent the buildup of plant litter that can suppress new growth and contribute to uncontrolled wildfires later in the season. The district emphasizes that all burns are conducted only when weather and site conditions meet strict safety standards.
Residents can learn more about the program and view scheduled burns at dupageforest.org.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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