Did you know nearly every natural community in Florida is shaped by fire? In this episode of the Water Matters podcast, host Michele Sager interviews Felicia Nudo, a land manager with the Southwest Florida Water Management District, to discuss the vital role of prescribed fires in Florida’s unique ecosystems. Learn why Florida’s ecosystems—and the plants, animals and communities within them—depend on controlled burns to thrive and remain healthy.

Some benefits of prescribed fires include:

• Nutrient Recycling: Fires return essential nutrients to the soil, enabling plants to regrow and strengthening the ecosystem’s foundation.
• Wildlife Habitats: By reducing overgrown vegetation, prescribed fires allow animals to move freely and access more food sources, creating a balanced food chain.
• Water Conservation: Removing dense vegetation lowers water absorption and reduces transpiration, allowing more water to remain within the ecosystem.

Prescribed fires are more than a fire management tool; they are essential for preserving Florida's unique ecosystems and safeguarding communities. Through careful planning and strategic implementation, these controlled burns reduce wildfire risks, promote new plant growth and support diverse wildlife habitats. By understanding and supporting prescribed fires, we can help maintain the health of our natural landscapes and ensure that Florida’s ecosystems continue to thrive. Together, we can appreciate the power of fire as a force for renewal and protection in our environment.