Controlled prairie burns at select parks anticipated for February through March

The Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department will conduct controlled prairie burns at select City parks beginning Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026.

The parks scheduled to undergo controlled prairie burns are:

• Willow Creek Park
• Terry Trueblood Recreation Area
• Scott Park
• City Park
• Hunters Run
• Kickers Soccer Park

Additional controlled burns may occur at Hickory Hill Park and the City's water treatment and waste water facilities.

Due to the highly unpredictable nature of weather, wind, and ground conditions, there are no guaranteed dates for controlled burns for any of the parks. Burns typically occur between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

A comprehensive burn plan was prepared and approved by the Iowa City Fire Department, and considerations will be made for wind direction and required weather conditions. Privately-owned land areas and structures will be protected, and fire breaks will be established along all sides of the burn area.

Seasonal burning of native vegetation in Iowa promotes species diversity, habitat, and suppression of invasive species. Controlled burning is an established and powerful conservation management tool that, when utilized by professionals under strictly defined parameters, can be safely used for great benefit to natural areas.