Sent on behalf of Forest Park Forever. We have officially entered prescribed burn season in Forest Park, from October 15, 2026, to April 15, 2027. The priority burn locations for the 2026-2027 burn season are listed on the map below.
Forest Park Forever, in partnership with the City of St. Louis, is happy to report 16 years of successful prescribed burns. Our data from several past burns indicates that the ability to repeatedly and consistently burn in a habitat directly correlates to the habitat’s diversity and overall health. Each time we complete a prescribed burn, we continue to support and advance the natural communities in Forest Park.
Prescribed Burn Process
- A contractor will perform the prescribed burns, potentially for up to 5 days, with guidance from Forest Park Forever.
- A St. Louis Fire Department representative will be present or in close contact throughout the entire process. In addition to the Fire Department’s support, Forest Park Forever and the contractor will also coordinate with the Parks Department, Health Department and local aldermen.
- Trails and small sections of Forest Park roads may be closed for short durations within or directly adjacent to burn sites. We will reopen impacted trails, sidewalks and roads as soon as safely possible.
- When conditions are favorable for burning, we will send you a notice. Notice may be less than 24 hours in advance because of strict weather parameters.
- Amy Witt, Forest Park Forever Ecologist, is the primary contact for prescribed burns in Forest Park. Questions or concerns may be sent to forestparkburnteam@forestparkforever.org
Why Controlled Burns?
As a management tool, controlled burning provides several benefits to our natural systems within the Park. Want to learn more? Visit this page of our website: https://www.forestparkforever.org/conservation/controlled-burning.
Stay updated on the latest controlled burns in the Park on this page of our website: https://www.forestparkforever.org/burn-alert.