Broward County to conduct controlled fire in Coconut Creek nature preserve for ecosystem health
Broward County, Florida – Broward County officials are getting ready for a planned prescribed burn at the Fern Forest Nature Center in Coconut Creek. The burn is set to happen on Monday, June 16, 2025, weather conditions permitting. The Broward County Parks and Recreation Division is working with the Florida Forest Service on this project, which will span around 5.4 acres of prairie land at the nature center.
The center at 201 Lyons Road South will stay available to the public during the operation, but all footpaths will be blocked for the day to keep people safe. This short closure gives the fire personnel time to finish their work without being disturbed and lowers the risks that come with the controlled burn.
People often get an incorrect impression about prescribed fire, but it is an important way to manage ecosystems. Land managers intentionally burn parts of natural regions to help keep and restore native habitats, increase biodiversity, and stop the buildup of dense underbrush that can start dangerous wildfires. Fire is a natural part of South Florida’s sensitive ecosystems that helps keep plant communities healthy and strong.
Prescribed burns are important for taking care of ecosystems over the long run. They help officials protect wildlife habitats and stop uncontrolled, more intense fires from starting in the future.
The Florida Forest Service will send highly trained teams to watch over the fire and make sure it stays contained and is done in a way that meets tight safety and environmental criteria. There are some factors that need to be just ideal for the process to continue ahead, such as temperature, humidity, and wind. If the weather doesn’t cooperate on June 16, the burn will be postponed and rescheduled for a more suitable day.
Broward County manages a larger network of parks and preserves, including Fern Forest Nature Center. The Parks and Recreation Division is in charge of around 6,500 acres of property that are home to more than 50 parks, nature centers, and natural regions. Every space has its own ways to have fun, learn about the environment, and protect it.
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People who want to know more about park hours, fees, or programs for people with disabilities should go to Broward.org/Parks or call the Special Populations Section at 954-357-8170.
