Restored coastal prairie at WARC in Lafayette, LA post controlled burn

Restored coastal prairie at WARC in Lafayette, LA following a controlled burn. USGS WARC coordinates with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry to safely perform semi-annual burning to maintain the diversity and vigor of the restored prairie. Many prairie species depend on fire for seed production because it removes accumulated plant litter, allowing the seeds to make contact with the soil. Burning is the natural mechanism by which the coastal prairie renews itself. Fire prevents woody plants from establishing, stimulates seed germination, replenishes nutrients, and allows light to reach young leaves. The deep roots of coastal prairie plants allow these species to survive frequent (every 1 to 3 years) and necessary burns.