Michigan plants and animals are adapted to co-exist with fire. Some species, like jack pine trees, even need fire to survive – their resinous cones won't open to release seeds unless exposed to heat. Burned areas regrow quickly, providing food and shelter for animals.

Before European settlement in Michigan, fires were ignited by Native Americans or lightning strikes. Today, fires are quickly suppressed for safety reasons, but certain landscapes like pine forests and prairies still benefit from fire. That's where prescribed burns come in.

Prescribed burns also provide an opportunity for firefighter training. DNR fire staff and local fire departments can learn about wildfire and practice tactics and skills.