Used as a land management tool, prescribed burning can help woody plants from overtaking grasslands and wildflowers while also maintaining a natural cycle of nutrients, said Wes Buchheit. He is a Missouri Prescribed Fire Coordinating Wildlife Biologist and works with nonprofit organizations like Pheasants Forever, which helps with habitat improvements, access and conservation.
People will often tell Buchheit that they're afraid of fire when asking about the importance of controlled burns.
"'That's good. It's a tool to be respected,'" Buchheit said. "That's why we offer trainings and demonstrations for folks to be able to gain that knowledge and experience and be able to safely conduct prescribed burns.