Prescribed Fire

Developed with contributions by Alexander "Sandy" Smart, former SDSU Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Program Director.

SDSU Extension works collaboratively with state and federal partners to educate landowners about the use of fire as a grassland management tool.

SDSU Extension, in collaboration with state and federal agencies and non-government organizations across South Dakota, has developed a comprehensive prescribed fire education and outreach platform. Our prescribed fire program is focused on five primary delivery mechanisms:

• Introductory education about prescribed fire planning and safety through classroom instruction
• Reinforcement of classroom information through hands-on, skills-oriented live fire training in a controlled setting that focuses on situational awareness, safety and teamwork.
• Evaluation of pre-fire planning and fire effects during site visits and tours.
• Research on fire effects
• Coordination with an extensive Great Plains team from North Dakota to Texas to ensure consistent outreach to landowners on the latest tools, techniques and knowledge. 

Seek professional assistance or guidance from individuals with authority when considering the use of fire for grassland management.