DNR Plans Prescribed Burns Across Six North Iowa Counties

Controlled fires aim to improve wildlife habitat and reduce wildfire risk

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Iowa Department of Natural Resources will conduct prescribed burns this spring on several wildlife management areas across six north Iowa counties, including Worth, Winnebago, Wright, Hancock, Cerro Gordo, and Franklin. The burns are intended to improve wildlife habitat, control invasive plants, restore native vegetation, and reduce wildfire risk.

Why it matters

Prescribed burns are an important land management tool used by the DNR to maintain the health and diversity of Iowa's natural areas. By carefully controlling the fires, the DNR can achieve ecological benefits while minimizing risks to nearby communities.

The details

The scheduled areas for the prescribed burns include Hogsback Marsh, Pilot Knob and Rice Lake in Winnebago County; Elk Creek and Grass Lake in Worth County; Union Hills and Wild Goose Marsh in Cerro Gordo County; Lower Morse and Elm Lake in Wright County; Warren E. Fox and Crystal Lake in Hancock County; and Coulter Marsh in Franklin County. The burns are generally conducted between mid-March and mid-May, starting late morning and finishing by early evening, depending on weather conditions.

  • The prescribed burns will take place this spring.
  • The burns are scheduled between mid-March and mid-May.

The players

Iowa Department of Natural Resources

The state agency responsible for managing Iowa's natural resources, including wildlife areas and prescribed burning programs.

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The takeaway

Prescribed burns are a vital tool for maintaining the health and diversity of Iowa's natural areas. By carefully controlling these fires, the DNR can achieve important ecological benefits while minimizing risks to nearby communities.