About the 2024 Prescribed Fire Ban

In 2020 a prescribed burn that was being conducted by the WI DNR on the Sauk Prairie State Recreation Area unfortunately entered a drainage area that had accumulated surface contaminants from the former Badger Army Ammunition Plant. Something that was a known hazard of burning the settling pond area. This resulted in a thick, yellowish colored smoke that then had to be left to burn off over a short period of time. Although prescribed burning had been conducted safely, and without incident on all previous prescribed burns, this incident rightfully raised alarms.

Fire dependent ecosystems cannot exist sans flame.

There has been no burning of any kind on the SPSRA parcel of the former BAAP lands for five years, with an official fire ban being put into place in 2024. As you may well imagine, this has resulted in the smothering of the landscape by invasive vegetation. Some areas of the park cannot be walked through due the density of growth, and the effects on wildlife is apparent.

The only acknowledged remnant of the once 14,000 acre ancient Sauk Prairie is down to a tiny patch located on a hillside in the southern portion of the SPSRA. For decades volunteers have worked diligently at protecting the ecological health of this micro-environment. There is also a successful history of the use of prescribed fire on this specific location, and the landscape was seen to be rebounding.

After five years without the touch of flame this rare, unique little biome is now becoming smothered as well. The DNR has helped by securing grants to help with forestry mowing for some sections, but the situation is dire.

We need eco-warriors to come BE THE FIRE! Check the events section of our homepage to sign up! We’re always looking for volunteer land stewards!