Restoration Through Fire: Big Thicket National Preserve’s Big Sandy Prescribed Fire

The Big Sandy prescribed fire at Big Thicket National Preserve is a step forward in ecosystem maintenance and community protection. Located in Polk County, Texas, this carefully planned prescribed fire continues restoration efforts of the longleaf pine savanna. It reduces hazardous fuels and protects nearby communities from wildfire threats. This project is part of the National Park Service’s hazardous fuels reduction and longleaf pine restoration efforts.

The Big Sandy project aimed to treat up to 9,275 acres divided into three units. Only parts of these units could be treated due to unfavorable weather conditions. Luckily, the areas that were favorable, were the primary focus. The focus area held plant communities that need frequent fire. These treatments help prevent woody brush accumulation, control invasive plants and insect pests, recycle nutrients into the soil, and encourage new plant growth. Fire managers waited for favorable prescribed burn conditions for several years. In 2021, the area had too much precipitation. From 2022-2023, there was high to extreme fire danger. Finally, in 2024, managers had favorable conditions and burned 4,000 acres.

Frequent, low-intensity fires remove fuels that can lead to catastrophic wildfires. A wildfire can burn intensely hot and fast. This has a negative impact on the longleaf pine savanna ecosystem. The US Fish & Wildlife Service found more than 30 plants and animals associated with longleaf pine ecosystems. These include the red-cockaded woodpecker, Texas trailing phlox, Louisiana pine snake, and gopher tortoises. These species are listed or are candidates for listing as threatened or endangered. This project helps protect and maintain habitat for these species.

The Big Sandy project area lies on the park’s northern boundary. This area is next to private property, Tribal lands, and homes. This area benefits from fuels reduction projects that reduce wildfire risk. The Big Sandy prescribed fire fosters a healthy environment for longleaf pine. It also reduces wildfire risk and benefits the surrounding communities. This project highlights the success of collaborative fire management. It achieves management objectives of a critical forest resource and reduces wildfire risk.