The City of Webster Groves has announced plans for a prescribed burn of prairie land, aimed at ecological maintenance and restoration. The burn will encompass areas within Lockwood Park and Lorraine Davis Park, possibly commencing as soon as February 5, and could extend to April 14, based on the mercy of weather and soil conditions.
In a recent social media post, city officials detailed that a professional Prairie Burner will supervise the controlled fires, with additional support from the Webster Groves Parks & Recreation department. The Webster Groves Fire Department is expected to contribute additional trucks and personnel—ensuring the burn is managed safely and effectively. However, as decided by the city, both parks will be off-limits to the community during the burn operation, which is typically scheduled to start in the morning and wrap up by 4 p.m. on the same day.
According to a post on the City of Webster Groves' official Facebook page, the goal of the prescribed burn is multifaceted. By emulating natural fire cycles, it is designed to strengthen parklands, making them better able to support diverse wildlife and vegetation. The benefits range from promoting the growth of native flora and fauna to limiting the spread of invasive species. Additionally, the burn plays a crucial role in recycling essential nutrients back into the soil, supporting a more biodiverse and sustainable ecosystem within these urban green spaces.
Residents can track updates on the prescribed burn—such as specific dates and impacted park areas—through the city's social media platforms or direct inquiries to Webster Groves Parks & Recreation.
