Northumberland County is planning two prescribed burns in the Northumberland County Forest on Thursday, September 24, weather conditions permitting.
One burn will take place near the Beagle Club Trailhead in Alnwick/Haldimand Township. That burn was originally scheduled for spring 2026 but was postponed because of environmental conditions.
The second burn is planned at a new location north of Dunbar Road.
The County says the controlled burns are intended to protect and restore rare ecosystems in the forest, including oak savannah, oak woodland and tallgrass prairie.
Prescribed burning can also help control invasive plants, encourage native species adapted to fire, reduce excess vegetation and lower wildfire fuel loads.
Visitors should expect the possibility of smoke in the surrounding area while the burns are underway. Temporary trail closures may also be required at the Beagle Club Trailhead.
The burns will be managed by Lands and Forests Consulting, whose team developed the prescribed burn plan and will oversee the operations.
The Township of Alnwick/Haldimand Fire Chief has been notified, and County staff will remain in contact with the fire department throughout the day.
The County says the burns will be carefully monitored and conducted under established safety protocols.
Anyone planning to visit the Beagle Club Trailhead on September 24 is encouraged to check the Northumberland County Forest Facebook page for any closure notices before heading out.
