The first date for 91²Ö¿â's annual prairie burn in the protected prairie near the Beverly J. Warren Student Recreation and Wellness Center was April 13. That date was moved to April 17 because of heavy rain and then to April 24 after the attempts to ignite the rain-soaked vegetation failed.
Contrary to appearances, burning this area is an environmental best practice that helps control the spread of invasive plants, puts nutrients back into the soil and encourages biodiversity of flora and fauna.
After the fire, the blackened ground, free of overgrowth and dead plant material, increases the ability of the sun to warm the soil, stimulating the grasses to grow. This prairie is a living example of smart, forward-thinking sustainability at 91²Ö¿â. It helps maintain a low-maintenance landscape that saves the university from having to spend money on lawn fertilization, weed control and mowing an additional 10 acres.
The City of Kent Fire Department initiates and monitors the burn each year, in partnership with University Facilities Management. The scheduling is dependent on weather and the firefighters being called to an emergency. The next burn is scheduled for April 24.
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