Frisco Commons Park Wildflower Meadow To Undergo Prescribed Burn

Press release from the City of Frisco:

October 9, 2020

FRISCO FIRE'S WILDLAND FIREFIGHTING TEAM ONSITE;'BURN' PART OF PARKS & RECREATION'S BLACKLAND PRAIRIE RESTORATION PROJECT

Frisco firefighters will conduct a prescribed burn at Frisco Commons Park, 8000 McKinney Road, during a five-day window beginning October 12. The prescribed burn, also known as a controlled burn, will last less than four hours once it starts. The Frisco Fire Department’s Wildland Firefighting Team, as well as multiple engines, will be onsite monitoring the prescribed burn of the seven-acre site on the north side of the park. The five-day window will end October 16.

“The exact day and time of the prescribed burn is not known at this time. We need the five-day window to ensure we’re burning during weather conditions that safely support the prescribed burn operation,” said Battalion Chief Jake Leeper, Frisco Fire Department. “The prescribed burn also provides a great training opportunity for our firefighters.”

The Natural Resources division of Frisco Parks and Recreation requested the prescribed burn to help restore this patch of Blackland Prairie ecosystem.

“Prescribed burns are part of our plan to preserve Frisco's valuable natural areas. It's one of the most cost-effective methods to rejuvenate an ecosystem and bring back the native vegetation that once thrived, allowing beautiful wildflowers to make a comeback and rejuvenating animal habitat,” said Shannon Coates, Director of Parks & Recreation. “Our last prescribed burn at Warren Sports Complex's Freedom Meadow was a success, and we are excited to use this practice to improve more natural areas for Frisco residents to enjoy.”

Other prescribed burn benefits include restoring soil nutrients and increase shelter, space and food for local wildlife. The prescribed burn also promotes safety by reducing high grasses, which could fuel an uncontrolled fire.

Smoke should be light during the burn operation. Once the burn is over, native plants may regenerate as quickly as a week, depending on rainfall.

Prescribed burns must be approved by the Frisco Fire Marshal. Section 307.2.1 of the adopted fire code allows for the use of prescribed burning to eliminate underbrush and combustible fuel loads. Burning leaves, trees and other vegetation is not allowed for single family residences and businesses. Outdoor grills, fireplaces and some outdoor pits are allowed at single family homes as long as used in accordance with Fire Code.

Follow @FriscoFFD @PlayFrisco or @CityofFriscoTX on twitter to learn more about the specific burn day and time once determined by the fire department’s Wildland Firefighting Team. Updates will also be posted on facebook at @FriscoFire @PlayFrisco or @CityofFriscoTX .

This press release was produced by the City of Frisco. The views expressed are the author's own.