Queen Anne’s County Parks and Recreation, with approval from the Maryland Forest Service, plans to conduct a prescribed burn at Conquest Preserve this week, weather permitting. The controlled burn will take place in select meadow areas of the preserve as part of an ongoing habitat management and restoration effort.

Prescribed fire is a carefully planned and highly effective land-management tool used to maintain healthy meadow ecosystems. At Conquest Preserve, the primary goals of the burn are to improve wildlife habitat, control invasive trees and plants, and encourage the growth of native vegetation that supports birds and other meadow-dwelling species. Controlled burns also reduce the accumulation of dead plant material and promoting new plant growth.

The burn will be conducted and supervised by trained fire professionals from the Wildlife and Heritage Service of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. All activities will occur under strictly monitored conditions that account for weather, wind, and public safety. Some smoke may be visible for a short period during the burn.

Conquest Preserve is expected to remain open to the public during the prescribed burn; however, visitors are asked to observe posted signage and follow any on-site guidance. Signage will be placed at the preserve entrance and near burn areas along Conquest Road to inform visitors of active operations.

Nearby residents have been notified in advance.

For more information about prescribed fire and habitat restoration efforts, visit www.qac.org or contact Queen Anne’s County Parks and Recreation at 410-758-0835.