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<br />200 I burns <br /> <br />Page 2 of2 <br /> <br />and 180 acres respectively as outlined in the bum-block plan. "We've already observed an increase in <br />native vegetation as a result oflast year's bum," noted Frank. "This bum will involve redefIned _ <br />management blocks totaling 124 acres." ., <br /> <br />The prescribed burn at Elk Meadows will: <br /> <br />1.) Improve elk habitat - destroy thatch and weeds that have accumulated due to idle usage and <br />increase the nutritional value of grazing; <br /> <br />2.) Preserve the meadow - destroy invasive conifers and rejuvenate the meadow grasses; <br /> <br />3.) Be part of an integrated weed management approach that would result in fewer chemicals <br />being used for treatment; <br /> <br />4.) Reduce fIre hazards by eliminating ladder fuels and accumulated ground fuels. <br /> <br />Prescribed burning is an acceptable part of natural resource management. The Elk Meadow plan <br />provides for a patchwork approach to burning that achieves the resource goals in respect to wildlife. <br />Unburned management blocks provide escape areas for small mammals and assure habitat for ground <br />nesting birds. This plan calls for the rotational burning of grasses and shrubs every three years. The <br />younger the grass, the more nutrient value available for foraging wildlife. <br /> <br />With planned bums, fIre safety is optimal. Fire crews are on site and prescribed burns provide a <br />controlled training opportunity for fIre fIghting. <br /> <br />e <br /> <br />"You might say we're on stand-by for the prescription bum," noted Frank. "When the conditions are <br />right, everything will be a go." <br /> <br />Current information on the prescribed bum plan for Elk Meadow Open Space Park is available <br />through the Prescribed Fire Hotline (303) 271-5914. <br /> <br />-30- <br /> <br />Attached: Elk Meadow Open Space Park map with prescribed burn areas indicated. <br /> <br />Contact: Thea Rock, Jefferson County Open Space, 303-271-5902 or 303-906-0201 <br /> <br />Return to County Home <br /> <br />This page last modified 041091200215:10:23 <br /> <br />Return to News <br /> <br />e <br /> <br />htt....../I")M '1,17 AO ")l/""......-../rl.....t/"'......<:)AmJ.....n....-i.....-tn.f........""c-"...oll'"')O..lhn......".. h+~ <br /> <br />'711 "fn") <br />