Wildfires can leave producers wondering how to manage burned pastures, but the good news is that perennial grasses are resilient and will recover.
How wildfires affect grasslands
- Dormant season fires (winter/early spring): If a wildfire occurs when grasses are dormant (like in late February), the grass buds that sprout in spring should be unharmed.
- Growing season fires (May–August): If a wildfire burns during the growing season, grasses suffer more damage because they are actively growing.
- Drought conditions: If pastures experienced drought last year and dry conditions continue this spring and summer, recovery will be harder. May and June rainfall is critical for regrowth and should guide range management decisions. More conservative measures may need to be taken if wildfire is coupled with drought.
- Increase in annual weeds: Following a fire, an increase in annual weeds is common. This is normal and temporary.
Grazing strategies after wildfire
“Recommendations for grazing after a wildfire used to be a lot more conservative,” says Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension Range Specialist. Recent research suggests that grazing restrictions do not need to be as strict as previously thought. However, these key strategies should be followed:
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