Why Parts Of Windsor Will Be Set On Fire This Spring

WINDSOR, CT — State environmental officials plan to set controlled fires at two Windsor sites this spring as part of an effort to help wildlife, protect rare habitats and lower the risk of more dangerous wildfires.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection said Windsor’s Matianuck Natural Area Preserve and Windsor Wildlife Management Area are both included in this year’s prescribed burn plan. Seven other locations across the state are also on the list.

A prescribed burn is a fire that is set on purpose and closely managed. DEEP said the burns follow safety plans and will only happen when weather and ground conditions are right.

Why Windsor Was Chosen

In Windsor, DEEP plans a 3.5-acre burn at Matianuck Natural Area Preserve and a 45-acre burn at Windsor Wildlife Management Area.

At Matianuck, the goal is to help preserve a rare sandy habitat that is disappearing in Connecticut. DEEP said some insects and other small animals rely on that kind of open, sandy land. The fire helps clear out overgrowth and creates room for native grasses and bare sand.

At Windsor Wildlife Management Area, the burn is meant to improve rare grassland habitat. DEEP said the fire should help native grasses grow, open up patches of soil and reduce brush and woody plants.

Why The State Uses Controlled Burns

DEEP said controlled burns are one of the tools it uses to keep certain habitats healthy. Without them, some grasslands and sandy areas can become overgrown and stop supporting the plants and animals that depend on them.

The agency also said prescribed burns help remove dry plant material and other fuel that could feed a wildfire later.

State officials said the burns also give wildfire crews hands-on training.

What Residents Should Know

DEEP said local officials and fire departments will be notified before any burn takes place. Burn areas will be closed that day, and warning signs will be posted.

People nearby may see or smell smoke during the work.

The exact dates have not been announced. DEEP said the final decision will depend on weather and site conditions on the day of the burn.

DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said the burns help wildlife, reduce fire risk and give crews training for future wildfire response.

Residents with questions can contact DEEP Forestry at DEEP.Forestry@ct.gov or 860-424-3630.