BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — The St. Johns River Water Management District is conducting a 8,800-acre prescribed burn on Wednesday at Three Forks Conservation Area in Brevard County.

The burn is taking place on the southern portion of the property, the district stated, west of T.M. Goodwin Waterfowl Management Area.

The goal of the burn is to reduce hazardous fuel loads and maintain the growth of woody shrubs, which helps prevent destructive wildfires.

Before conducting a burn, the district ensures that weather conditions are correct for managing the fire and minimizing the impacts of smoke to residents and traffic.

The district stated fire is nearly as important as rainfall and sunshine in fire-dependent ecosystems.

The benefits of prescribed fire include restoring and maintaining natural communities, reducing chances of destructive wildfires, perpetuating fire-adapted plants and animals, cycling nutrients, managing tree diseases and opening scenic vistas.

Visit here to learn more about the district’s prescribed burn program.