Iowa Department of Natural Resources Announces Prescribed Burns Near the Great Lakes

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has revealed plans for prescribed burns near the Great Lakes region, set to commence in March.

These controlled burns are scheduled to take place in Dickinson, O'Brien, Lyon, and Sioux counties starting on March 1 and expected to continue until May 20.

The primary objective of these annual burns, as outlined by the DNR, is to enhance wildlife habitats, manage invasive plant species, and preserve native plant communities. Of particular benefit are the ground nesting birds that thrive on the aftermath of these burns.

The DNR employs a rotational burn strategy, varying the areas burnt every one to five years. Depending on the specific location, the burn areas can range from a few acres up to several hundred, catering to the specific needs of the ecosystems involved.

Among the areas earmarked for burns in Dickinson County are Spring Run, Cayler Prairie, Center Lake, Christopherson Slough, Diamond Lake, Dugout Creek, Garlock Slough, Hales Slough, Jemmerson Slough, Kettleson Hogsback, Welch Lake, and West Okoboji.

In O’Brien County, the burns are planned within the Waterman Prairie wildlife complex, positioned to the north of Highway 10, five miles east of Peterson, and four miles east and south of Sutherland.

Lyon and Sioux counties will also see prescribed burns along the Big Sioux River as part of the conservation efforts outlined by the DNR.

For any inquiries related to the prescribed burns, individuals are urged to contact 712-330-4543 or 712-336-1485.