The upcoming Prescribed Fire Fest, scheduled for next Saturday, will provide an opportunity to explore the practical aspects of ecological management. The event will feature educational sessions and hands-on activities focused on the role of fire in land conservation. According to a recent press release from Hillsborough County, attendees will have the chance to observe how professionals use fire as a tool to prevent wildfires.
The festival, taking place at Edward Medard Conservation Park, is open to both professionals and families, featuring a range of activities for all ages. Young participants can earn the title of Junior Wildland Firefighter for the day by completing various stations, collecting stamps in their Prescribed Fire Fest passports, and engaging with firefighting tools. These activities and equipment demonstrations will run throughout the day, concluding at 12:30 p.m., as noted in the information provided by Hillsborough County.
Interactive games will provide kids with the opportunity to test their skills using a fire hose in a hands-on setting. A display will also explain the differences between a brush truck and a regular fire truck, showcasing the specialized equipment used in managing prescribed fires. In addition, attendees will have the chance to view these trucks and learn about the protective clothing worn by firefighters.
Conservation will be a central focus at the festival, with partner agencies providing exhibits on local wildlife and environmental stewardship. A Florida Forest Service helicopter will be on site, with a scheduled landing offering a view of the aerial component of wildland firefighting. For those interested in learning more about prescribed fires in the ecosystem, three guided hikes along the Singing Bluffs Trail will be offered at 9:30, 10:30, and 11:30 a.m., as noted by Hillsborough County. These hikes will provide educational information and contribute to attendees' Hiking Spree achievements.
The event centerpiece at 1 p.m. is a live demonstration of a prescribed fire, showing the careful planning and execution needed to manage these controlled burns. This segment is contingent on favorable weather conditions, so attendees are encouraged to hope for clear skies. The Prescribed Fire Fest spans from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is free to the public, with a nominal $2 park entry fee. Edward Medard Conservation Park is located at 6140 Turkey Creek Rd. in Plant City. For an engaging day filled with learning and lively activities, the Prescribed Fire Fest is shaping up to be the hot ticket for the weekend.
