Free field day at Goose Pond Natural Area in Western Linn County, Iowa. Weather permitting we will conduct a six acre prescribed burn.

This field day (rain or shine) has been planned for individuals who would like to learn more about fire as a tool for natural resource management or as a management tool for an upcoming or existing project.

Many Conservation Reserve Program practices offer prescribed burning as an option for mid-contract management. Prescribed fire is used as a management practice by the Linn County Conservation Department on more than a dozen natural areas throughout the county. The Linn County Secondary Road Department will again plant more than 150 acres of public road rights-of-way with native species in 2013. Prescribed fire is periodically used to emphasize the establishment of these native plantings, as well as control invasive woody plants.

Frequency and timing of burning can affect the sustainability and species composition of both resource plantings and remnants. Safety, smoke management and habitat ecology all need to be considered when writing a burn plan.

If you are not comfortable conducting a prescribed burn yourself, contractors that offer this service may be available to discuss the services they offer. If weather conditions allow, we will conclude our program with a prescribed burn on a six acre native prairie reconstruction planted in 1993.

There is no charge for this program. Bring a box lunch if you wish; bottled water will be provided. Please make reservations before 4:30 PM Thursday April 18th at the Linn County Soil and Water Conservation District; (319)377-5960, ext. 3. This program made possible with funding from Iowa's Living Roadway Trust Fund (www.iowalivingroadway.com).