A controlled burning in Beatrice

Temperatures may be dropping everywhere else, but in Beatrice, things are heating up.

On Thursday, Oct. 24, the Homestead National Monument had its annual prescribed burn. It helps put nutrients back into the ground and remove unwanted plant life.

But, it’s more complicated then you might think. Before moving forward, officials must first document the number of people needed, outline the area to be burned, and be aware of weather patterns. They even need to prep the land before initiating the burn.

Mark Engler, the Homestead Superintendent, commented, “safety is the most important thing for us. We will not ignite this- ignite the fire until we know we’re 100 percent certain that we can complete it in a successful manner”.

Homestead Park holds a controlled burn every year, but only a third of the land is treated each time, consisting of about 30 acres.

All trails and services were reopened once the prescribed burn was finished. If you would like to see what the Homestead National Monument has to offer, visit nsp.gov.