Cary Keeps the Bluffs Wildfire Safe with Annual Prescribed Burn

• Cary will conduct its annual prescribed burn at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve between now and April 2026, weather permitting.
• The burn is a proven wildfire-prevention tool, focused on reducing excess vegetation while prioritizing public safety.
• The preserve will remain open during the burn, with temporary trail closures clearly signed and monitored by staff.

Cary, NC - Cary will conduct its annual prescribed burn at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve sometime between now and April 2026, weather permitting, as part of the Town's long-term fire management plan for the preserve. North Carolina State Parks will carry out and supervise the burn, with Cary staff providing logistical support and a Cary fire truck on site throughout the operation. While short sections of select trails may be temporarily closed, the preserve will remain open, and visitors are encouraged to enjoy the area as usual.

"Public safety is always our priority," said Andrew Marsden, Community and Recreation Services Manager. "Trails will be clearly signed and patrolled by preserve staff as needed during and after the burn."

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve is a registered State Natural Area, and Cary continues to invest in the expertise and resources needed to maintain a prescribed fire management program. This program focuses on fuel reduction and wildfire prevention to maintain fire-adapted ecosystems and improve wildlife habitats.

Wildfires are a common threat to structures across many parts of North Carolina, particularly during droughts and high winds. Prescribed burns are a proven and widely used tool for reducing excess fuel and lowering the risk of more severe wildfires. The public notification window for the burn may be limited to just a few hours, depending on weather conditions.

Prescribed burns conducted at Hemlock Bluffs in prior years have been completed safely and without incident and are part of Cary's broader commitment to responsible environmental stewardship of our shared natural resources. To learn more about this year's prescribed burn, visit What's New At Hemlock Bluffs or contact Cary 311.

Primary Contacts

If you have specific questions, visit carync.gov/311, dial 311 anywhere in Cary, (919) 469-4000 outside Town limits, or email [email protected].

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