A prescribed burn is planned at Gulf State Park as part of a forest management plan associated with longleaf pine restoration, fuel reduction and invasive species control. The planned burn will take place in the Eagle Loop section of the park near Lake Shelby sometime between November 11-30, 2019, weather permitting.
Every effort is being made to ensure safety and proper smoke management during this burn. However, park guests staying in the lakeside cabins can expect to experience some smoke from the fire. During the active burn period, access to the Eagle Loop area will be limited to only lakeside cabin guests. Additionally, Alabama Highway 135 (State Park Road) is closed due to construction and will remain closed during the burn.
This prescribed burn complies with a permit from the Alabama Forestry Commission.
Prescribed fire is an effective way to reduce wildfire risk, reduce fuel loads, enhance wildlife habitat and maintain a healthy forest ecosystem. This is especially important in the south Alabama coastal region due to vegetation type and a longer growing season.
For more information about the benefits of prescribed fire, visit www.outdooralabama.com/prescribed-fire-alabama.
The Alabama State Parks Division relies on visitor fees and the support of other partners like local communities to fund the majority of their operations. To learn more about Alabama State Parks, visit www.alapark.com.
###
