The planned burn will be conducted between now and April 10, as weather conditions permit.
The planned burn will be conducted between now and April 10, as weather conditions permit.
The ecological management of the wetland area by the Prospect Heights Natural Resources Commission (NRC) includes a two-hour controlled burn.
Historically, the natural fires that once occurred in the wetlands burnt off dead vegetation, which allowed new growth to appear and thrive.
The prescribed burn will be held on a dry, windless day between now and April 10. The vegetation must be dry in order to burn off quickly with the least amount of smoke. Generally, such a burn lasts less than two hours. The 0.6-acre area is located on the east side of Maple Street, between Marion Avenue and Willow Road. The burn crew members are experienced at setting and monitoring prescribed burns. The burn has been approved by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency and Prospect Heights Fire Department.
Residents who see or smell the smoke should not be concerned; the burn crew will be monitoring the fire closely. After the burn is complete, the area will be blackened, but native plants will appear quickly to cover the burnt remnants of the old growth. Questions regarding the prescribed burn should be directed to City Hall at 847-398-6070.
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