Sanibel prescribed burns following Hurricane Ian

This year’s fire season may be more active on Sanibel Island due to the damage caused by Hurricane Ian. The increased amount of dead vegetation on the ground and in debris piles across the island, as well as the decreased rainfall this time of year, pose a higher threat for wildfire. Members of the Sanibel Prescribed Fire Task Force are planning to conduct prescribed burning in natural areas to remove dead vegetation and replenish nutrients in the soil. These prescribed burns reduce the risk of wildfire to adjacent communities and increase the health of habitats for recreation and wildlife.