UNCW is planning a prescribed burn of a select tract within the longleaf pine forest on the main campus over Winter Break (Dec. 17–Jan. 7), weather permitting. The burn will be conducted over the course of one day. The final date is dependent on weather and safety considerations. 
  
The planned burn area is approximately 40 acres and bordered by Rose Avenue to the east and Carleton Place to the west. Most of the area is central to the forest area, with the UNCW forest and parking areas to the north and south, respectively. 
  
The burn will be low in intensity, occurring only on the ground (not in the trees) and it is expected to last less than a day. UNCW Environmental Health and Safety and facilities personnel will be on site at all times. The sight and odor of smoke will be detectable on campus and in nearby neighborhoods. Safety controls will be in place to minimize smoke exposure. 
  
A prescribed burn decreases the chances of a more intense and hazardous wildfire by destroying the fuel load of the accumulated layer of leaf litter and improves the health of the longleaf pine forest, which is a fire-dependent ecosystem.   
  
For questions or further information: 
UNCW Environmental Health and Safety 910.962.3057 
UNCW Project Management 910.215.1167