Kissimmee River Travelers Learn about Prescribed Burns in State Parks

LAKE KISSIMMEE STATE PARK – In a first-of-its-kind wilderness trip entitled, Expedition Headwaters, An Everglades Journey to Remember, two teams of kayakers and hikers are conducting a wilderness expedition of the Shingle Creek to Lake Okeechobee corridor. Traversing 140 miles, the group is traveling by both kayak and on foot along this previously untraveled route. Throughout the 12-day journey, the team is exploring the headwaters of the River of Grass and learning about the efforts to restore the fragile ecosystem.

"Careful and appropriate use of prescribed fire allows the Florida Park Service to effectively manage state park lands as nature intended," said Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Michael W. Sole. "This form of land management maintains the beauty of Florida’s natural habitats while protecting the area from potential wildfires."

A prescribed burning expert will explain the benefits of controlled fires. Prescribed burning is one of the most successful tools used by land managers to improve ecosystems and reduce wildfire danger. Prescribed burning mimics natural fire cycles by restoring natural communities, reducing undergrowth that accumulates over time and decreasing the potential for wildfire. Burned lands experience an increase in native wildflowers, birds and other wildlife.

“Prescribed fire is one of the most effective tools we have in our resource management tool bag. Fire has shaped Florida’s natural communities since the beginning of time when lightning fires would travel across the state unchecked but by nature itself,” said Andy Noland, Lake Kissimmee State Park Manager. “The Florida Park Service and Lake Kissimmee State Park feel it’s very important to foster every opportunity to interpret and educate Floridians and visitors about the benefits of prescribed fire and its importance to managing natural areas.”

The first two-time Gold Medal winner honoring the nation’s best state park service, Florida’s state park system is one of the largest in the country with 159 parks spanning more than 725,000 acres and 100 miles of sandy white beach. From swimming and diving in Florida’s rivers and springs to birding and fishing or hiking and riding on natural scenic trails, Florida’s state parks offer year-around outdoor activities for all ages. Battle reenactments and Native American festivals celebrate Florida’s unique history, while art shows, museums and lighthouses offer a window into Florida’s cultural heritage.

For more information, visit www.floridastateparks.org and http://www.dep.state.fl.us/evergladesforever/eh/default.htm.