LAKE WALES, FL — Polk County Parks and Natural Resources staff plan to conduct a 12-acre prescribed burn Wednesday near Masterpiece Road, about four miles northeast of Lake Wales.
The burn site is located just south of Lake Pierce and is not currently open to the public.
County officials said prescribed burns are conducted when wind and weather conditions are favorable to minimize smoke impacts. However, residents and motorists may notice smoke in the surrounding area.
Prescribed burns are used to reduce vegetation and fuel loads, lower the risk of severe wildfires and maintain Florida’s fire-dependent ecosystems. The burns also help improve wildlife habitat, soil health and biodiversity.
The burn may be postponed or canceled if weather or other conditions become unfavorable.
SOURCE: POLK COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS DIVISION
