Greenbelt Land Trust in cooperation with the Oregon Department of Forestry, local fire departments and various other organizations is preparing to conduct a controlled ecological burn at Bald Hill Farm in Corvallis.
The operation will target up to 25 acres of restored grasslands. The timing of the burn will depend on weather conditions, officials said, but as of Wednesday was planned for Sunday, Sept. 28.
Trained personnel from Philomath Fire and Rescue and the Corvallis Fire Department will join ODF and Greenbelt Land Trust staff for the operation.
Unlike wildfires, prescribed burns operate under strict conditions set by fire professionals. The “prescription” for Sunday’s burn accounts for wind direction and speed, temperature, humidity levels, fuel moisture and smoke management.
Operations will only proceed if all predetermined conditions are met, officials noted.
The target area consists of restored prairie featuring native grasses and wildflowers. According to Greenbelt Land Trust, ecological burning provides multiple benefits for prairie habitats and enhances restoration effectiveness.
Experienced ODF staff will manage the burn under required legal permits. The operation serves dual purposes — advancing Greenbelt Land Trust’s ecological goals for the property while giving local firefighters hands-on experience with grass fuel fire behavior.
Because of the burn, officials said that there will be a closure of the Mulkey Ridge Trail at Wynoochee Drive on the east side and the Greenbelt property boundary on the west side. Lower Bald Hill Farm trails will be open. Access to Fitton Green will be possible using Wynoochee Drive, officials noted.