St. Pete Standard

The City of St. Petersburg's Parks & Recreation Department, in collaboration with the Kissimmee Valley Foresters, is conducting a prescribed burn at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve on Tuesday, August 20. The operation will commence around 10 a.m., provided weather conditions are favorable. Units 9, 10, 11, and 18 within the preserve are slated for the burn, with additional units possibly included if conditions permit. During this time, all trails in the preserve will be closed.

These specific units encompass 84 acres of trail-laden land within the preserve. Prescribed burns are an integral part of land management at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. They offer environmental benefits such as reducing hazardous fuels and protecting communities from severe fires. Additionally, these burns help control pest insects and diseases while enhancing habitats and encouraging growth. The frequency of prescribed burns depends on factors like vegetation type and climate.

For further information about the prescribed burn or Boyd Hill Nature Preserve's activities, interested parties can contact them at 727-893-7326 or visit their website at boydhillpreserve.com.

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is managed by the St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation Department. It spans 245 acres and features attractions like Lake Maggiore Environmental Recreation Center and Pinellas Pioneer Settlement. The preserve provides various educational programs and recreational services suitable for all ages.

The St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation Department is accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies. With numerous facilities including recreation centers, swimming pools, parks, and athletic fields, it aims to enhance parklands while engaging the community in leisure activities.