The National Park Service (NPS) will conduct a prescribed fire in Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio, as conditions allow, on Monday, October 24.
The goal of the planned fire is to improve the natural habitat. Specifically, the prescribed fire will burn the invasive plant species, create good soil conditions for native seeds, and maintain grassland bird habitats, according to a news release.
The prescribed fire is planned for approximately 40 acres at the site of the former Richfield Coliseum along Rt. 303 near the I-271 interchange.
The burning will be the first planned fire for the former Richfield Coliseum site. Prescribed burns were conducted in 2012, 2017, and 2021 at other park locations. The use of periodic fires is part of an overall long-term ecosystem management plan.
The prescribed fire program at Cuyahoga Valley National Park is conducted by trained and experienced National Park Service fire personnel.
Smoke dispersal is a primary concern, and park staff will do everything possible to limit smoke in the area by monitoring wind and atmospheric conditions prior to ignition. However, smoke drifting in and around parklands and roadways is possible.
Before burning, a designated set of conditions must exist, including ideal air temperature, wind speed and direction, and relative humidity.
Burning may occur any time on October 24 when the right conditions exist. Weather conditions will be monitored throughout the duration of the burn to ensure safety.
Since the site of the former Richfield Coliseum was added to Cuyahoga Valley National Park, it has become an important bird habitat and popular location for birders.