Naples Botanical Garden is intentionally burning approximately 2 acres of its Preserve today as a key component of ongoing land management practices. The controlled burn, slated to begin mid-morning and continue for several hours, aims to reduce wildfire risk and bolster the health of the surrounding ecosystem.
This prescribed burn is a proactive public safety measure, diminishing the amount of flammable organic debris like pine needles and leaves. More broadly, fire plays a vital role in maintaining Florida‘s natural landscapes, stimulating new plant growth and encouraging seed germination. The Garden initiated a program to reintroduce fire to its natural areas in 2023, collaborating wiht a certified burn manager, thier team, and conservation partners.
Garden staff will monitor the burn site well into the evening and over subsequent days to ensure complete extinguishment and address any potential hot spots. Safety measures are in place, including firebreaks to contain the blaze, strategically positioned fire hoses, and the clearing of vegetation that could allow fire to climb into tree canopies.
The Garden remains open to the public during its regular hours – 9 a.m.to 5 p.m., or 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for members. Officials anticipate minimal smoke impact to the Garden and nearby communities, aided by current wind conditions.
