- Cary will perform its annual prescribed burn at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve sometime between January 2025 and April 2025, weather permitting.
- The North Carolina Forest Service will implement and supervise the burn; Town staff will offer logistical assistance, and a Cary fire truck will be on-site during the burn.
- The burn is necessary as part of Hemlock Bluffs’ long-term management plan.
Cary, N.C. – Cary will perform its annual prescribed burn at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve sometime between January 2025 and April 2025, weather permitting. The prescribed burn is part of the bluff's long-term fire management plan. The North Carolina Forest Service will implement and supervise the burn, measuring two to five acres or the size of a football field. Town Staff will offer logistical assistance, and a Cary fire truck will be on-site during the burn. While certain sections of select trails will close, the preserve will remain open, and visitors are encouraged to enjoy as usual.
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve is a registered State Natural Area, and Cary is bringing the necessary resources and experts to bear on continuing a prescribed fire management program focusing on fuel reduction and wildfire prevention. Burns implemented in prior years were a huge success. “Public safety is always our priority, so trails will be signed and patrolled by preserve staff as needed during and following the burn,” said Andrew Marsden, Community and Recreation Services Manager.
Wildfires are a common threat to structures in many areas of North Carolina, especially during drought and times of high winds. Prescribed burns are a proven and safe way to reduce fuel loads in forests and other areas. Prescribed burns at Hemlock Bluffs will be supervised and implemented by trained individuals with the NC Forest Service with logistical support from Town staff. The notification window of the burn may be only hours, depending on weather conditions. Citizens who wish to obtain more detailed information on the burn can contact Cary 311.
Primary Contacts
If you have specific questions visit, carync.gov/311, dial 311 anywhere in Cary, (919) 469-4000 outside Town limits, or email 311@carync.gov.
Resources
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
Submit a 311 Request
