[March 31, 2021]      

The first burn off of 2021 was accomplished on March 22, 2021. The igniting of the prairie grasses starts with quite a smoke screen until the heat finally ignites the grasses and the flames take over. At times, due to intermittent winds, the smoke roils up so thick it blocks out the flames.

From what Joe Funk, Park Ranger at Kickapoo Creek Park could remember, 2020 is the only year field burns were cancelled since implementation of the Conservation Review Program (CRP) at the park. That was due to the Covid Pandemic becoming prevalent in March of that year. At that time the effects of the virus were unknown and it was determined that for the protection of the park staff and volunteers, the 2020 burns would be cancelled.

The annual burn offs are part of the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The purpose of the program is to reduce land erosion, improve water quality, and effect wildlife benefits. CRP benefits many native plants, animals, and ecosystems.

The burn offs help keep the prairie grasses, wildflowers, and other vegetation as pristine as possible This also helps keep the undesirable elements from choking out the natural habitat, allows new growth, and enables the increase and propagation of certain wildlife species, all indicative to Illinois.

To start a burn off, a fire line is laid around the perimeter of the designated sections. This allows control of the fire within that area. An ignitor torch with precise mixtures of diesel fuel and gas is used to start fire lines.

Pictures by Beverly Buhrmester

The start of the burn off.

Line of flames. One of many flame pics that show the size, intensity, heat, and mesmerizing qualities

 

Smoke engulfs two volunteers as it permeates upper part of park.

Flames burning inner field area which shows the fire line was doing its job.

 

Close up shots of how intense the fire can get.

 

The Rural Fire Protection District arrives for standby.

Joe Funk, Park Ranger with igniter torch, field smoke in background, giving directions.

 

Flames caught a large grass area and became a full blown burn for several minutes. Mesmerizing to see and heat was almost unbearable.

 

Joe Funk in silhouette with field full of smoke in background.

 

A volunteer walks the perimeter checking for hot spots.