The Town of Cary, North Carolina, is planning its annual prescribed burn at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, scheduled to take place between now and April 2026, depending on weather conditions. This controlled burn is part of Cary’s ongoing fire management efforts to reduce wildfire risks and support ecological health within the preserve.
The controlled burn will be conducted by North Carolina State Parks, with Cary personnel on site and a fire truck available throughout the operation. Some trail sections may be temporarily closed during the burn, but the preserve will remain open to visitors. Trails will be clearly marked and monitored by preserve staff as needed during and after the burn to ensure safety, according to the Town of Cary.
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve is designated as a registered State Natural Area, with Cary actively maintaining the landscape through practices such as prescribed burning. These controlled fires reduce flammable materials, or fuel loads, support ecosystems adapted to periodic burns, and improve habitats for local wildlife.
Residents or others interested in prescribed burns or fire management can find more information on “What’s New at Hemlock Bluffs” or by contacting Cary 311 regarding this year’s burn schedule, as per the town's announcement.
