Fire

Welcome to the Flatwoods Shelter. This shelter is in a Pine Flatwoods ecosystem, hence the name. Flatwoods typically have pines as their main tree species with saw palmetto, wiregrass and other low shrubby plants beneath. These ecosystems are fire dependent, requiring fire about every 2-4 years. Fires were historically started by lightning but are now often set my land managers using prescribed burns. The plants and animals found here are adapted to survive fire as they have lived with it for a long time. Without fire, oak trees would grow up and take over, shifting this pine flatwoods ecosystem into an oak hammock. Fire is important and beneficial to the plants and animals found here; it opens the tree canopy to allow more sunlight in and killing off unwanted invasive species. Following a fire, the nutrient rich ashes are absorbed into the soil and become available for new plant growth which the animals love to eat. Fires also clear out densely vegetated areas, allowing for easier movement of wildlife. By doing regular prescribed burns, land managers keep fuel levels down, creating healthier conditions for plants, animals and even us!