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 A majority of the pine-dominated ecosystems of the southeastern U.S. are dependent on frequent, low-intensity
fires. These fires, historically caused by lightning and/or human management, provide a variety of benefits, including:
- Enhanced timber growth — through accelerated nutrient cycling and reduction of understory competition
- Ecological improvement — through induced seeding, promoting browse production, and providing bare soil
necessary for seed germination
- Wildfire risk reduction — through the removal of fuels prior to dangerous buildup
- Recreational opportunity enhancement — through reduced understory conditions, allowing greater visibility
and ease of access
Prescribed fire mimics historic fires, while minimizing associated risk. This is
done by performing prescribed fires under optimal conditions, including timing
(season and time of day), predictable weather conditions (especially wind and
humidity), and the pre-arrangement of staff and equipment. Prescribed fires
are typically done in either winter (dormant season) or summer (growing season).
Winter burns are less severe and easier to manage, making them preferred when
burning under timber, or in areas with significant fuel loads. Summer burns
better mimic the natural timing of fires, making them preferred for meeting
ecological goals in areas with low fuel loads.
ESI Capabilities
 Prescribed burning is typically regulated by the state forestry agency. ESI
staff hold certifications for North Carolina, South Carolina, Louisiana, Georgia,
and Florida. An additional 20 staff have significant support experience with
prescribed fire and/or wildfire. We can provide “turn-key service” – arranging
for firebreak installation, securing necessary permits, and conducting the actual
burn. For parcels larger than 35 acres, burning typically costs $35-65 per acre.
Since there are significant fixed costs for this service, smaller projects are a minimum
of $1,200.
State certification provides some liability coverage. Beyond this, ESI is fully insured and bondable for prescribed
burning, with both general liability and professional liability coverage (documentation available on request).
Value to Clients
Prescribed burning is especially useful to clients in the following circumstances:
- Restoring pine plantation to a more ecological diverse or natural condition (including wetland/upland enhancement, and enhancement of habitat for listed species, per
regulatory permits)
- Enhancing timber growth and potential yields
- Improving recreational opportunities (including improving game species abundance and quality, and
allowing greater access and visibility in dense understory)
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