North Little Rock, Arkansas – Officials with the North Little Rock Parks & Recreation Department have announced a planned prescribed burn over 250 acres at Burns Park, aimed at promoting ecological health and reducing wildfire risk. The burn is scheduled for Monday, with careful consideration given to wind speed and direction to minimize impact on surrounding areas.
The controlled burn will cover three main sections of the park. According to a map provided by officials, 60 acres will be burned in the Pavilion Section, 130 acres in the Green Section, and another 60 acres in the White Oak Overlook Section. While the operation is designed to be safe, residents and visitors across central Arkansas may notice smoke in the air during the day, and glowing embers may be visible at night.
Park officials emphasized that the prescribed burn is part of ongoing efforts to manage vegetation, reduce invasive species, and maintain the park’s natural habitats. By removing excess underbrush and carefully controlled fires, Burns Park can promote the growth of native plants and help prevent unplanned wildfires in the future.
To ensure safety, certain roads within and near the park will be closed or rerouted during the burn. Arlene Laman Drive will be closed at the intersection with Championship Drive, and Joe K Poch Drive will be blocked at the gate just past the youth baseball complex. Traffic at the soccer complex will be one-way in and out via Championship Drive, and the gate at Tournament Drive near Arlene Laman Drive will remain locked. Officials encourage visitors to plan ahead and follow posted signs to avoid any disruptions.
Residents with questions or concerns about the burn are encouraged to contact the North Little Rock Parks & Recreation Department directly at 501-791-8538 for additional information. The department stressed that safety and environmental stewardship are top priorities throughout the operation.
Prescribed burns like the one planned at Burns Park are a common tool in park and forest management. They help maintain healthy ecosystems by reducing accumulated plant material that could fuel uncontrolled fires, improving wildlife habitats, and supporting native plant species. Parks officials said that careful planning, monitoring, and coordination with weather forecasts ensure that such burns are conducted safely and effectively.
While the smell of smoke and sight of flames may be visible to those nearby, officials assure the public that the controlled nature of the burn poses minimal risk to surrounding areas. The operation is expected to be completed by the end of the day, leaving Burns Park better prepared for both ecological health and public enjoyment in the seasons to come.
By conducting these controlled burns, North Little Rock continues to prioritize sustainable park management, environmental safety, and community awareness. Residents are reminded to stay clear of restricted areas during the burn and to enjoy the park once operations are complete.
