Articles, Season Reports

Controlled Burn on Switchgrass Field

using controlled fire to improve wildlife habitat

I prepped my switchgrass field over the weekend for a controlled burn sometime this week, then when I checked the forecast this morning, I realized today might be my best chance to burn. So I made the call to obtain my burn permit, then called both my adjacent neighbors, and out the door I went! Two hours later, the burn went great and I have a great foundation for my switchgrass to thrive this summer!

switchgrass field before controlled burn

Before.

switchgrass field controlled burn

…and we have fire…

fire to improve wildlife habitat

Coming along nicely. I started from the NE side since we have SW winds today.

burning switcgrass field to enhance deer habitat

About half-way there…

using controlled fire to improve wildlife habitat

With enough of a burned area on the downwind side, I lit the upwind side and they met in the middle. Almost done!

switchgrass controlled burn fire, southwest Michigan

Done!

I do this on my field about every 3 years, and it really enhances the growth.

 

 

 

 

One thought on “Controlled Burn on Switchgrass Field

  1. Jim says:

    Fire is such a great tool. Nice job! I wish more people would take this on and improve habitat.

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