Stop 4: Fire

Welcome to the Flatwoods Shelter, named after the Pine Flatwoods ecosystem it overlooks. Flatwoods are iconic of Florida and once dominated the southeastern United States. These ecosystems consist of pine tree as the main overstory species, and saw palmetto, wiregrass and other low shrubby plants as the understory. Mostly what you see here are a mix of slash and longleaf pines, but we also have sand pines in the higher and drier parts of the Preserve. Pine flatwoods ecosystems are unique as they are considered fire dependent, requiring fire about every 2-4 years to stay healthy. I know that sounds crazy, but we are the lightning capitol of the world. Before Florida became as developed as it is today, lighting would start massive wildfires throughout the state. Over thousands of years, these ecosystems adapted to survive this powerful force of nature. Since Brooker Creek Preserve is completely surrounded by development, wildfires are put out or contained as quickly as possible to ensure public safety, but that comes at the cost of the ecosystems that need it. To combat this issue land managers use a technique called prescribed burns. Prescribed burns required a “prescription” (if you will) and can only be conducted under very specific conditions. If permitted, the land managers will intentionally set fire to a specific section of the land to mimic these historical and natural fires that would normally occur.

See, without fire, oak trees would grow up and take over, shifting this pine flatwoods ecosystem into an oak hammock. Fire is important and beneficial to the plants and animals found here; it opens the tree canopy to allow more sunlight in and kills off unwanted invasive species. Following a fire, the nutrient rich ashes are absorbed into the soil and become available for new plant growth which the animals love to eat. Fires also clear out densely vegetated areas, allowing for easier movement of wildlife. By doing regular prescribed burns, land managers keep fuel levels down, creating healthier conditions for plants, animals and even us!