Spring prescribed burn program starts

Burns of varying sizes and complexities are being prepared across the state, including 26 burns planned in the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges region.

Prescribed burns are a vital fire management tool used to reduce fuel loads across public and private land, helping protect communities, property, infrastructure and the environment by limiting the spread and intensity of bushfires.

New case studies from Wilmington, Ngarkat Conservation Park and the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges show prescribed burns can slow, contain or reduce the intensity of bushfires, helping protect communities, biodiversity, critical assets, and firefighting crews.

NPWS Fire Management and Compliance Director Fiona Gill said prescribed burns were an important part of South Australia's bushfire risk reduction strategy.

"Prescribed burns help reduce fuel in the landscape, making bushfires easier to control and creating safer conditions for firefighters," Ms Gill said.

"Each burn is carefully planned and only carried out when weather, fuel and environmental conditions are suitable,” she said.

"While reducing bushfire risk is a key objective, we also consider environmental outcomes and work to minimise impacts on native plants, animals and their habitats."

Prescribed burns are also undertaken to benefit biodiversity by helping maintain healthy ecosystems, with careful planning and environmental assessments undertaken to protect sensitive species and ecological communities.

It is one of a range of tools used to reduce bushfire risk, complementing other fuel management activities, including slashing, mechanical vegetation management and weed control.

NPWS works closely with ForestrySA, SA Water, Country Fire Service, local councils, First Nations groups, industry groups and private landholders to plan and deliver its prescribed burn program.

Burns that are unable to be completed due to unsuitable weather are rolled over to the following spring or autumn as part of an ongoing, rolling multi-year mitigation program. 

The Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC) spring Seasonal Bushfire Outlook shows warm and dry conditions are expected to elevate South Australia’s bushfire risk.

For the most up-to-date information and to find a list of planned prescribed burns, visit the DEW website. You can also sign up for updates on prescribed burns straight to your inbox.