Community Corner
West Des Moines Park Areas To Undergo Prairie Burns
Fire is commonly used to control invasive plants and restore native plants to park areas.
WEST DES MOINES, IA — A number of public areas within the city will undergo controlled burns in the coming weeks to kill off invasive weeds and restore natural plantings, the city announced today. Five sites have been determined to be in need of prairie burns.
The Public Services Department will conduct prairie burns along Railroad Avenue and at the following parks:
- Southwoods Park, 350 S. 35th St.
- Jordan Creek Trail Park, 310 50th St.
- Knolls Park, 5150 Aspen Drive
- Valley View Park, 255 81st St.
Parks Maintenance Supervisor Brian Fowler said in a news release the burning of prairie areas enhances the native vegetation that currently exists. “Fire will stimulate the growth of native species, such as big bluestem, compass plant and butterfly milkweed, as well as other pollinator species, and it stunts or eliminates weeds,” he said.
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Since safety is a top priority, prescribed burns will occur as weather and wind conditions allow.
Residents with questions should contact the Public Services Department at 515-222-3450.
Find out what's happening in West Des Moinesfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Image via City of West Des Moines
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