[Press Release] : Prescribed burns planned at city parks

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Tammy Miller - (573) 874-7465

Prescribed burns planned at city parks

COLUMBIA, MO (March 11, 2008) - The Columbia Parks and Recreation
Department is planning a series of prescribed burns at parks and nature
areas over the coming weeks. The burns will take place at Stephens Lake
Park, and the Grindstone, Garth, and Forum nature areas. 

The burns could take place at any time between now and April 15. Exact
dates and times are not known, as conditions for a prescribed burn
depend mainly on the weather. 

Before burns are conducted, signs will be posted on the site. Parks and
Recreation will also work with the city’s Joint Communications
Department and the Fire Department to ensure safety.

Prescribed burns are helpful in maintaining natural areas. The
department uses prescribed burning to enhance native grasses, forbs,
legumes and wildlife habitat. Prescribed burns also aid in suppressing
cool season grasses and weeds which can decrease the diversity of the
ecosystem. Left unchecked, these areas would become stagnant with the
wildlife habitat being virtually eliminated. 

For more information, call Parks and Recreation at 874-7460. 

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