Prescribed Fire in Action: How Fire Benefits Forests, Wildlife and Oak Regeneration

Join forestry professionals, researchers, and land management experts for an engaging field-based workshop exploring the role of prescribed fire in Wisconsin’s forests. Participants will travel by bus to an active management site for a guided outdoor tour featuring discussions on how prescribed fire is planned and implemented. We will discuss fire’s historical and modern uses in forest management, focusing on how it provides oak regeneration, wildlife habitat, native plants, and pollinators.

During the field tour, experts from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, UW-Madison Extension Forestry, UW-Stevens Point, and the American Bird Conservancy will share real-world examples and answer questions about incorporating prescribed fire into sustainable forest management plans. Following the tour, participants will return for a provided lunch and a presentation from the Wisconsin Prescribed Fire Council, along with discussion of key lessons learned and opportunities for future fire management. 

Spaces for this event are limited. Registration will close Aug. 14, 2026 or when full.

Location

Indoor Portion: Black River Falls Library (222 Filmore St, Black River Falls, WI 54615

Field Site 1: Waazija State Natural Area (N7292 Low Cloud Rd, Black River Falls, WI 54615)

Field Site 2: Overmeyer Hills Recreation Area (Shale Rd, Warrens, WI 54666)

You may request an interpreter, materials in an alternative language and/or format, accommodations for hearing or visual impairment, accommodations for physical mobility considerations, and/or other services to make this event more accessible. Contact information is listed at the top of this webpage. Please make requests as early as possible prior to the program so that proper arrangements can be made. There is no added cost to you for these services.