Sarasota County Prescribed Burns to Reduce Wildfire Risk

The Southwest Florida Water Management District plans controlled burns through December at the Myakka River - Deer Prairie Creek Preserve in Sarasota County. The burns aim to reduce wildfire risk by managing overgrown vegetation.

The preserve is west of North Port and south of Interstate 75. Approximately 400 acres will be burned in smaller sections.

Prescribed fires decrease wildfire potential by reducing fuel, encourage diverse plant growth, and maintain wildlife habitats and public recreational access.

Residents can sign up for email or text alerts on the District’s website for notifications on burn locations, timing, and acreage. The District conducts prescribed fires on an estimated 35,000 acres annually across the region.

The controlled burning process helps maintain ecological balance and public safety. By igniting fires under specific weather conditions, the District manages landscapes, promotes healthy ecosystems, and mitigates wildfire dangers.