Arbor Lakes controlled burn

Controlled burns of native grasses start May 1

To restore native plantings and wildlife habitat, the parks department has scheduled controlled burns over the next two to three weeks throughout the Arbor Lakes area, including:

• Central Park
• Maple Lakes Park
• Arbor Lake
• North Arbor Lake
• West Arbor Lake

The areas listed above will be targeted on a day-to-day basis taking into consideration weather, wind direction, and humidity. View the Arbor Lakes controlled burn maps (PDF).

If concerned about smoke possibly entering your home, keep windows and doors closed if you see or smell smoke.

Burns are conducted carefully and with consideration for potential impacts on nearby communities and ecosystems. The Maple Grove Parks and Recreation Department is committed to safely and effectively restoring these areas. All necessary permits have been acquired for the affected area. 

Prescribed burning of native plants can improve ecosystem health in several ways:

• Promotes regeneration: Many native plant species require fire to regenerate. Prescribed burns can stimulate the germination of seeds and growth of new plants, particularly in fire-adapted ecosystems. This helps to maintain the diversity of plant species and promote the growth of new vegetation.
• Reduces invasive species: Prescribed burns can also help to reduce invasive plant species that may have established in an area. Many invasive plant species are not adapted to fire and can be killed off by controlled burns. This can create opportunities for native plants to recolonize the area and improve overall biodiversity.
• Mitigates wildfire risk: Prescribed burns can help to reduce the risk of wildfires. By removing accumulated fuel (dead plant material) on the ground, prescribed burns can reduce the likelihood and severity of uncontrolled wildfires.
• Improves wildlife habitat: Many wildlife species depend on specific habitats created by native plants.  Controlled burning can help to create and maintain these habitats by promoting the growth of native plants and reducing the abundance of non-native plants.