BLM plans prescribed burn near Canadian River
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AMARILLO, Texas – The Bureau of Land Management has planned a prescribed burn, of up to 4,300 acres, in the Cross Bar Management Area, approximately 15 miles north of Amarillo, Texas. The burn area is located south of the Canadian River, about two miles west of U.S. Highway 87/287 near the Canadian River Bridge. Ignition operations are planned between Feb. 26 and March 4, weather permitting.
The objectives for this prescribed burn are to maintain the native grass species by reducing decadent mesquite, cholla cactus and tamarisk; lessen wildfire risks by reducing heavy fuel loads; improve ecosystem health; and enhance wildlife habitat.
The federal government purchased the land situated in the Cross Bar in 1931, as part of establishing the strategic helium reserve. The management area encompasses approximately 12,000 acres. The BLM manages the area for its ecological and recreational value.
For information about the prescribed burn, please contact BLM Natural Resource Specialist Adrian Escobar at 806-356-1008.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.