Prescribed burning is an accessible, if intimidating, conservation and management tool for farms and private lands. This episode’s guests bring decades of first-hand experience of strategically and safely using fire to help meet their ecological goals.

The benefits of burning can compound: curbed tick or liver fluke populations can reduce herd mortality that would otherwise be a blow to your bottom line, for example. Minnesota rancher Mike Sams notes that parcels that he’s burned have a “faster green-up” and more vigorous growth afterwards.

Implementing a fire regime on a property of course requires careful planning, and there is an increasing amount of resources and support available for farmers and landowners. A network of Prescribed Burn Associations – “neighbors helping neighbors” – and professionals can help you navigate risk management, access proper equipment, and build your skills and confidence alongside peers. Listen to find out how prescribed fire might work on your farm!

If you're interested in learning about additional tools for brush management, check out episode 76: Managing Buckthorn and Brush for the Long Haul.

Speakers

Jennifer Grommes, Southern Minnesota Program Manager, Great River Greening

Jason Andersen, Minnesota Prescribed Fire Coordinator, Pheasants Forever

Bryan Simon, Working Lands Consultant for SFA & owner-operator of Lakeside Prairie Farm

Mike Sams, owner-operator of Y4 Ranch

Resources mentioned in this episode

Pheasants Forever “Find a Biologist”

Minnesota Prescribed Burn Association

This episode was recorded in partnership with Great River Greening. Funding for this project was provided by the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources (LCCMR).

The viewpoints of the speakers expressed within or outside of this episode do not necessarily reflect the goals and mission of SFA.

Dirt Rich is produced by the Sustainable Farming Association of Minnesota.

If you enjoy Dirt Rich, consider supporting our work by becoming a member of SFA or making a gift at www.sfa-mn.org/support.