Ramsey County Parks and Recreation to conduct prescribed burns this spring
Ramsey County Parks and Recreation will be conducting prescribed burns at several park locations this spring. Prescribed burns are a vital land management tool used annually to promote the growth of native vegetation, including shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers, while controlling invasive weeds and undesirable plants.
When will the burns take place?
The prescribed burn season typically runs from April through the end of June, but the exact dates vary. Since weather conditions such as wind, humidity, and temperature play a major role, the county often determines the specific burn dates just days — or even hours — before they occur. This flexibility ensures the burns are conducted safely and effectively.
Why prescribed burns?
Fire is a natural process that once shaped Minnesota’s prairies and woodlands. By safely replicating this process, prescribed burns help restore and maintain healthy ecosystems. The controlled fires remove dead plant material, enrich the soil with nutrients, and create space for native plants to flourish. This practice also enhances wildlife habitat by promoting biodiversity.
Burn locations
Pocket prairies and rain gardens:
- Owasso Lake County Park
- Rice Creek Regional Trail
- Turtle Lake County Park
- Tamarack Nature Center (garden area)
Vadnais-Snail Lakes Regional Park:
- Snail Lake section wetland buffer
- Grass Lake section prairie
- Winthrop Prairie
- Pavilion Prairies
- West Prairies
- East Oak Savanna
Safety and supervision
All prescribed burns are conducted by trained county staff and professional contractors under strictly controlled conditions. Safety is the top priority, and burns are only carried out when weather and site conditions meet safety standards.
Contact
Email Mike Goodnature or visit our Habitats & Natural Resources page to learn more on the prairie management and prescribed burns.