DNR To Conduct Prescribed Burn Operations At Lakeshore State Park
Burn Window Of March 31 Through April 9

The DNR will be conducting prescribed burning operations at Lakeshore State Park in Milwaukee County. / Photo Credit: Wisconsin DNR
MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is conducting prescribed burning operations at Lakeshore State Park in Milwaukee County with an anticipated burn window of Monday, March 31 through Wednesday, April 9, 2025.
Prescribed burns support healthy ecosystems for a variety of plants and animals in Wisconsin. These burns mimic the benefits historic fire once provided but occur under a safer “prescription” range of weather and fuel conditions (compared to most wildfires). Historically, periodic fires (either lightning or through management by Indigenous communities) would remove the dead vegetation while stimulating native plant growth.
Following the burn, hazardous fuels are reduced, foraging and nesting improve in the revitalized vegetation and the stimulated growth of their root systems enhances their ability to store more carbon. Prescribed burns can also reduce the prevalence of non-native or invasive plant species.
“The prescribed burn will enhance the prairie habitat utilized by a number of bird and insect species, along with reducing runoff and improving native prairie success,” said Elaine Zautke, Lakeshore State Park property manager. “Following the burn, additional native seeding and plant installations will occur this summer, further improving the prairie.”
When conducting prescribed burns near roads or recreational trails, the DNR will post signs to notify the public. For your safety, we ask you to please avoid these areas while the burn is being conducted. The DNR also notifies local law enforcement and fire officials in advance about when and where DNR prescribed burns will occur.
To learn more about the benefits of prescribed burns and take a guided tour of the project, attend an informative hike on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at Lakeshore State Park. Information about the hike will be posted on the DNR’s Events Calendar.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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