Why are controlled burns used in park management?

Why are controlled burns used in park management?

• A. To attract more visitors
• B. To enable construction projects
• C. To manage invasive species
• D. To reduce park staff workload

Answer: (C)

Controlled burns, also known as prescribed burns, are an important management tool in park management primarily focused on ecological health. They are used to manage invasive species because many invasive plants can be highly flammable and outcompete native vegetation, disrupting local ecosystems. By carefully planning and executing controlled burns, park managers can effectively reduce the prevalence of these invasive species. This allows native plants to thrive and helps maintain biodiversity within the park. In addition to managing invasive species, controlled burns can also help with nutrient recycling within the ecosystem, as fire can break down organic material and promote the growth of new plants that are more suited to the environment. Therefore, utilizing controlled burns is a strategic method for ensuring the long-term health and stability of park ecosystems.

Controlled burns, also known as prescribed burns, are an important management tool in park management primarily focused on ecological health. They are used to manage invasive species because many invasive plants can be highly flammable and outcompete native vegetation, disrupting local ecosystems. By carefully planning and executing controlled burns, park managers can effectively reduce the prevalence of these invasive species. This allows native plants to thrive and helps maintain biodiversity within the park.

In addition to managing invasive species, controlled burns can also help with nutrient recycling within the ecosystem, as fire can break down organic material and promote the growth of new plants that are more suited to the environment. Therefore, utilizing controlled burns is a strategic method for ensuring the long-term health and stability of park ecosystems.