You often hear the terms prescribed burn and a controlled burn. Often times, a controlled burn is called a prescribed burn. A prescribed burn is controlled for sure, but there are big differences that I will outline in this post.

The first big difference is a written burn plan. A prescribed burn always has a detailed written plan. A controlled burn may be planned, but there is no formal "prescriptions"

Prescribed burns are conducted under specific weather conditions. Wind, humidity are just a couple of things that are looked at. There is no strict environmental requirements in a controlled burn.

A prescribed burn has a specific ecological or land management objective. The only objective in a controlled burn is to contain the fire.

There is a go/no go checklist, along with a trained crew. The informal nature of a controlled burn is usually managed by landowner.

Prior to a prescribed burn, there will be a briefing of crew members. Burn conditions are discussed, and a plan for conducting the burn is discussed. A controlled burn is any intentional fire that is controlled

Prescribed fires, with all of their actions being controlled by the burn plan, are often managed by landowners who are members of a prescribed burn association. Some are informal groups, some have been structured and organized thru the help of groups like Quail Forever/Pheasants Forever, National Wild Turkey Federation, and other conservation groups. Many landowners also receive help from the NRCS (Natural Resource Conservation Service). The bottom line is planning, preparation, and proper execution, all making for a safe and effective burn that will have a huge impact on your property, and it won't take long for the results to show.