ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Seasonal ecological burns are set to begin on Monday in Treetown parks and nature areas.
Burns will be conducted by staff and volunteers from the City of Ann Arbor Natural Area Preservation (NAP) between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays between Monday, Aug. 5, and Dec. 20.
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Signage will be posted in areas scheduled for burns and city staff will be on site to answer questions on the days when burns are happening.
Anyone living near scheduled burn areas with health concerns about exposure to smoke should contact NAP by Monday, Aug. 5, so that staff can minimize risks.
Burns are anticipated to take place in:
| Argo Nature Area | Barton Nature Area | Bird Hills Nature Area |
| Black Pond Woods Nature Area | Dhu Varren Woods Nature Area/Foxfire South Park | Foster Nature Area |
| Gallup Wet Prairie | Hansen Nature Area | Hollywood Park |
| Leslie Park | Mary Beth Doyle Park | Miller Nature Area |
| Oakwoods Nature Area | Redbud Nature Area | Ruthven Nature Area |
Are these burns necessary?
In short, yes. City officials have said Ann Arbor’s ecosystems depend on fire to remove non-native plant species, enrich the soil and remove dead plant matter.
NAP staff regularly evaluate potential sites and create plans that are reviewed by area fire marshals who then issue burn permits.
Burns are only done if the weather permits.
Learn about Ann Arbor’s controlled burns here.