Prescribed Burn

The North Carolina Forest Service is scheduled to conduct a prescribed burn covering 50 acres of the Whitehall property off Pee Dee Road soon. The Southern Pines Fire & Rescue Department, along with other local departments, will be present to ensure the controlled burn prevents unintended spread and effectively manages the area.

Prescribed burns play a crucial role in maintaining the long-term health and sustainability of Longleaf forests. By eliminating debris, these burns mitigate the risk of catastrophic fires caused by lightning or other sources. Furthermore, they create optimal conditions for pine seeds to germinate in the soil. The controlled burn also serves to eradicate invasive plant species and prevent other trees from encroaching on Longleaf stands, ensuring sunlight reaches the beloved trees. Healthy, open Longleaf stands are vital habitats for the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker and other native animals in the regionThe prescribed burn will be conducted during optimal weather conditions to help minimize smoke impacts to surrounding neighbors.

Visit https://sopinesnc.info/Whitehall for more information about the park and why prescribed burns are necessary to restore the forest and maintain a healthy ecosystem.