Fire moving across an open field isheart-stopping sight for most. However, properly managed field fires, called prescribed fires or burns, are beneficial for native habitat areas. The Wetlands Initiative’s Smart Wetlands program and Illinois Pheasants Forever, Inc. & Quail Forever are inviting farmers, landowners, and natural resource professionals to learn more about how fire can improve natural resource areas containing grassland, pollinator, and wetland habitats.

This educational opportunity consists of two parts. The first part is a 1-hour “Native Habitat Management with Prescribed Fire” live Zoom webinar on January 29, 2026, at 10 am. It will provide an overview of why and how fire can be used to manage perennial vegetation. A recording of the program will be available for those who cannot join the live presentation.

Fire in the Field Webinar Registration

The second part is the field demonstration that will take place on a farm in Saunemin, IL. Since specific weather conditions are needed to safely burn the buffer and wetland areas, those registering will need to provide a cell phone or email address so we can contact you when the conditions are right on a date following the January 29 webinar. Space is limited for this event.

Fire in the Field DEMONSTRATION Registration

Due to the nature of this event and concern for everyone’s safety, attendees must review and sign a waiver before entering the event location. Copies of the waiver will be sent to registrants ahead of the event.

These programs are brought to you by Smart Wetlands, a program of the Wetlands Initiative, and Illinois Pheasants Forever, Inc. & Quail Forever