The Nature Conservancy will conduct a burn at the Scott and Norma Matheson Wetlands Preserve during the week of Monday, November 17 through Sunday, November 23.
The burn is part of ongoing habitat restoration efforts to eliminate invasive Russian olive trees that threaten native species. Fire professionals from TNC, working with the Moab Valley Fire Department and Utah Division of Natural Resources, will burn piles of the invasive plants that have already been cleared and stacked across the preserve.
“The most effective way to eliminate this species and prevent its regrowth is by burning these piles,” TNC explained in their announcement. “This method not only eradicates the invasive plants but also reduces the presence of hazardous fuels, helping to lower the risk of future wildfires in and around the preserve.”
Smoke may be visible during the burning day and for one to two days afterward.
The Matheson Preserve, located near the end of 400 North, is a 876-acre wetlands oasis that provides habitat for over 200 bird species, amphibians, and aquatic mammals including beavers, muskrats, and river otters.
For updates on the burn schedule, follow The Nature Conservancy Utah on Facebook.
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