National Park Service to oversee “prescribed” fire at Manassas Battlefield Park near Brawner Farm

Manassas National Battlefield Park is preparing for a prescribed fire. The tentative target dates are today, Nov. 18 through Nov. Friday, 22. This window could be extended depending upon weather conditions. The planned fire will be on about 75 acres near the Brawner Farm (north of US-29 between Pageland and Featherbed Lanes).

This will be the park’s third prescribed fire, and it follows successful burns in April 2018 and March 2019. The goals of this burn are to restore historic battlefield viewsheds, maintain wildlife habitat and control woody and invasive species.

“Building off the great success we had with prescribed fires in April 2018 and March 2019, this is another opportunity to continue our efforts to return a significant segment of the battlefield back to its Civil War appearance,” Brandon Bies, Manassas National Battlefield Park Superintendent, was quoted as saying in a news release. “In addition to supporting the park’s goal of landscape restoration, prescribed fire allows native grasses to flourish and improves wildlife habitat. Safety is our top priority and we will only conduct the prescribed fire if conditions are appropriate.”

Many factors must align to conduct a prescribed fire and ensure public and firefighter safety. The timing of the prescribed fire is dependent on weather conditions being within required wind, temperature, and relative humidity parameters. Wildland fire engines, firefighters and mowed lines work in concert to create buffers and fire breaks to ensure the fire is contained. National Park Service staff will monitor air quality and smoke impacts including visibility on nearby roads. Following the active burn, wildland firefighters will continue to patrol the area to ensure the fire is completely out.

Temporary Closures Planned: During the prescribed fire, public areas and trails near the Deep Cut will be closed for up to two days. Additional roads, trails and areas may need to be closed temporarily if smoke conditions reduce visibility.

Text “MNBP” to 888777 for free, real-time updates about the prescribed fire. You can also stay up to date by visiting the park website, http://www.nps.gov/mana or by following us on Facebook, facebook.com/manassasbattlefield.