The Denton Fire Department (DFD) has scheduled prescribed burns at three locations this week, aiming to promote wildflower re-seeding and manage invasive plant species in native prairie areas.
Prescribed Burn Schedule
- Tuesday, July 29: A 16-acre burn will take place on the north side of the northern lake at North Lakes Park. Trails will be closed from approximately 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Wednesday, July 30: A 13-acre burn is planned at the University of North Texas (UNT) Discovery Park, also from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Update: Tuesday, August 12 – A 46-acre burn is planned at the Burch Property, located at 377/Vintage and owned by the City of Denton, starting around 10:30 a.m. The burn is dependent on weather conditions and whether the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality issues an ozone action day.
This initiative marks the first time these areas have undergone prescribed burns. In partnership with Parks and UNT Environmental Sciences, the DFD is conducting the burns to ensure optimal environmental outcomes. Notices have been distributed door-to-door in the Discovery Park neighborhood, particularly to residents on Nicosia and Crisoforo streets.
The DFD is also collaborating closely with Animal Services to mitigate the impact on local wildlife. Efforts will include timing the burns for late morning and choosing southeasterly wind conditions to direct smoke away from the animal shelter and nearby residents. In addition, signage indicating “Fire Training Ahead” will be posted in impacted areas to notify the public.
