Isanti Co WMAs Prescribed Fire

Undesirable and invasive plant species have encroached otherwise valuable habitat in 13 state-owned wildlife management areas (WMAs) in Isanti County. Lack of fire or similar management has resulted in expansion of cool season grasses, buckthorn, and others. In some locations, management such as native prairie planting has been undertaken, but prescribed burning or similar practices are needed to maintain it. Prescribed fire is a proven way to control the undesirable species and favor natives, ultimately improving habitat in areas open to public hunting. A focus area for this project is the Dalbo WMA, where sharptail grouse management is a special interest. Sharptail grouse abandon grassland habitat when woody vegetation encroaches. Prescribed burning prevents woody vegetation encroachment. The Dalbo WMA management plan states grassland burns would be very beneficial to this unit. The 5,700+ acres of Isanti County WMAs are heavily used by the public because they are on the Twin Cities metro fringe. They are managed for game wildlife including pheasant, wild turkey, grouse, and other game and non-game species. Quality habitat and abundant game at these WMAs will be enjoyed by many outdoor enthusiasts.