Prescribed Burning at Wildlife Refuge Scheduled for April

COURT HOUSE – Middle Township officials have been informed that a prescribed burn will occur in the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge in April, 2014. Nine acres of the forest on a portion of the Refuge located in Middle Township will be burned before the end of April.
Brian Braudis, the Wildlife Refuge Manager, informed the Township that qualified wildland firefighters will be conducting one prescribed burn on the refuge this year. It will include a nine-acre section of forest on the north end of the clamshell road off Tick Neck Road in Middle Township.
Prescribed burns benefit wildlife and their habitat in a variety of ways. Fire releases nitrogen and other nutrients into the soil, which encourages growth of a variety of beneficial plants. It also creates diversity for wildlife, enhances plant growth and reduces natural fuel buildup that accumulates in the soil.
Prescribed Burn Plans are written, reviewed, and approved by trained wildlife firefighters for each planned burn. These plans dictate the conditions that will permit burn activity. Requirements for air temperature, wind speed, wind direction, and humidity are determined. Additionally, the number of firefighters and pieces of fire equipment needed to oversee the burn are stated. A prescribed burn will only take place if all conditions of the plan are met. Safety of the firefighters and protection of nearby property are the top priorities.
Middle Township officials will continue to be updated on the date, time and duration of the prescribed burn through the month of April. Updates will be available on the Township’s website, www.middletownship.com.