The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources will conduct prescribed burning operations at Lakeshore State Park in Milwaukee County between November 1 and December 15, 2026, the agency said. The park will close for a single day during this window for the burn, with the exact date to be posted on the DNR website and social media before the operation.
Prescribed burns support healthy ecosystems by removing dead vegetation and stimulating native plant growth, according to the DNR. The controlled fires also reduce hazardous fuels and improve foraging and nesting habitat for wildlife.
"Conducting a prescribed burn will enhance the prairie habitat treasured by a number of bird and insect species, along with reducing runoff with improved native prairie success," said Elaine Zautke, Lakeshore State Park manager.
Following the burn, additional native seeding and plant installations will occur, the DNR said.
The DNR will post signs near roads and recreational trails to notify the public during the burn and asks visitors to avoid these areas while operations are underway. The agency notifies local law enforcement and fire officials in advance about the timing and location of prescribed burns.
More information about DNR prescribed fire operations is available on the agency's website, and visitors can track current and planned burns on the DNR's Prescribed Burn Dashboard.