Prescribed burning is essential on Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. Not only is it needed to manage the volatile fuels, but also to manage the complex system of fire maintained habitats found here. Fire management on the Refuge presents unique challenges. In addition to the restraints to prescribed burning that are common to many prescribed burning programs, Refuge fire managers must also consider the special needs of an operational space port. By using an active program of education, demonstration and negotiation with the Space Center, the Refuge has been able to maintain a prescribed burning program that has reduced the detrimental effects of unwanted wildland fires when they occur.