To maintain the rich diversity of this large fire-adapted protected area, Big Cypress National Preserve needs to burn thousands of acres each year. The most effective way to burn the pinelands and prairies is from a helicopter. Watch as Big Cypress Fire Management use their skills to create burn patterns that reduce intensity and provide escape routes for wildlife.
Smoke appears like ghosts rising above the dormant cypress and green pines. Small circles of fire grow slowly and join with other fires to gently transform the land. These fires also help reduce the accumulation of flammable vegetation. Skillful burning from a helicopter is a cost effective method to reduce severe dry season wildfire while maintaining natural processes.