Texas A&M Forest Service Awards $951,000 to Landowners for Prescribed Fires

The Texas A&M Forest Service has announced a significant funding initiative to support landowners in conducting prescribed fires across the state. This year, the agency is awarding over $951,000 to 168 landowners, aiming to treat a total of 35,138 acres.

Understanding Prescribed Fires

Prescribed fires, also known as controlled burns, are a land management technique where low-intensity fires are deliberately set under controlled conditions. These fires help achieve specific objectives, such as reducing hazardous fuels, promoting the growth of certain plant species, and maintaining healthy ecosystems. By carefully managing these burns, landowners can mitigate the risk of uncontrolled wildfires and enhance the health of their land.

Details of the Funding Initiative

The funding provided by the Texas A&M Forest Service is designed to assist landowners in offsetting the costs associated with conducting prescribed fires. Each grant reimburses landowners up to $30 per acre, with a maximum of 800 acres per recipient. This financial support enables landowners to implement prescribed burns that might otherwise be financially challenging.

Application Process and Deadlines

Landowners interested in applying for these grants should be aware of the application periods and eligibility criteria. The application period for the Community Protection Program (CPP), State Fire Assistance for Mitigation – Central and East Texas (SFC-ETX), and Neches River and Cypress Basin Watershed Restoration Program – Prescribed Fire (NRCBW) grants has closed and will reopen from September 1 to September 29, 2025. For the State Fire Assistance for Mitigation – Plains Prescribed Fire grant, applications are typically accepted from mid-July through mid-August each year. It’s important to note that Texas A&M Forest Service does not conduct these prescribed burns; grant recipients must utilize a certified and insured prescribed burn manager to be eligible for reimbursement.

Benefits of Prescribed Fires

Implementing prescribed fires offers numerous benefits, including:

• Wildfire Risk Reduction: By removing excess vegetation, prescribed burns decrease the amount of fuel available for potential wildfires, thereby reducing their intensity and spread.
• Ecosystem Health: Certain plant species thrive in environments where periodic fires occur. Prescribed burns help maintain the balance of these ecosystems, promoting biodiversity.
• Habitat Improvement: Many wildlife species depend on specific habitats that are maintained or enhanced through controlled burns.

Additional Resources and Support

For landowners seeking more information on prescribed burning, including safety guidelines, benefits, and best practices, the Texas A&M Forest Service provides comprehensive resources. Their website offers detailed information on prescribed burns, burning safety, and the benefits of controlled fires.

Conclusion

The Texas A&M Forest Service’s funding initiative underscores the importance of prescribed fires in land management and wildfire prevention. By supporting landowners with financial assistance, the agency promotes healthier ecosystems and safer communities. Landowners are encouraged to consider this opportunity to enhance their land’s resilience and ecological health.

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