We have taken every precaution to make sure the prescribed burn is as safe as possible. The burn will be lead by a certified Burn Boss, who has been expertly trained in fire management. They have developed a clear plan, which has been peer-reviewed by other fire experts, that includes a detailed outline of safety protocols, qualifying weather conditions, equipment needs, and emergency procedures.

We have secured necessary permits, prepared equipment and staff, and are waiting for the right weather conditions to ensure safety. Firebreaks have been determined and will be established to keep flames contained to the planned burn perimeter. Personnel will be present and closely monitoring the fire for the entirety of the burn, ensuring the area is secure until all flames and embers are completely out.

On the day of the burn, the Certified Burn Boss and additional staff members trained in fire management will be present to implement the plan. Personnel from local fire departments and trained representatives from Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources will also be present. Their expertise allows us to apply fire as a precise tool — restoring habitats while protecting surrounding landscapes and our community.

There will be temporary trail and road closures before, during, and after the burn. The area is expected to be closed for one day and will reopen promptly the next morning. These closures will be announced here at theparklands.org/alerts and on our social media channels.

Visitors may notice some smoke, staff vehicles, as well as fire trucks in the area. Local fire authorities are already informed and will be on-site. The fire will be strategically started and put out as quickly as possible to reduce the amount of smoke and keep the closure time to a minimum.

After the burn, you may notice some blackened fields in the affected area—this temporary cosmetic change is a powerful step toward healthier, more vibrant meadows filled with native plants and pollinators next season.

Fire helps create a healthy, diverse landscape by clearing out thick underbrush, opening space for native plants to grow, supporting richer habitats and food sources for pollinators, birds, and other animals.

Prescribed burns are carefully planned and conducted under specific conditions to minimize harm to wildlife. Animals will instinctively run, fly, or burrow to safety when fire approaches, and the burns will be small in scale, slow-moving, and timed to avoid sensitive nesting or breeding seasons.

A controlled burn is unlikely to cause harm to wildlife, and the long-term benefits far outweigh the minimal risk. Recently burned areas support biodiversity while helping us maintain and improve habitats, so our local flora and fauna can thrive.

On the day of the burn, some sections of Turkey Run Park will be CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC, including:

• The northern (Seatonville Road) entrance to Turkey Run Park
• A section of the main park road (Turkey Run Parkway) between Boulder Pond and the northern park entrance
• A section of the Louisville Loop (approximately mile marker 62.2–61.0)
• Seaton Valley Trail

The area is expected to be closed for one day and will reopen promptly the next morning. The rest of the park will remain open, but visitors may notice some smoke in the surrounding areas on the day of the burn.

See detailed maps of the closures here.

• Brighter wildflower displays: By removing invasive plants and woody growth, native wildflowers and grasses have room to flourish, creating more colorful and diverse plant life.

• Healthier forests and meadows: Trees and plants are better able to grow and thrive in a balanced ecosystem, which contributes to a more resilient landscape.

• Enhanced wildlife viewing: With improved habitat, you may see more birds, pollinators, and animals in the area.

• Reduced wildfire risk: Clearing excess brush and dead plant material helps protect visitors, trails, and park infrastructure from uncontrolled fires.