Sparking an interest in fire

Society generally views fire as a destructive force, stamping it out wherever it’s found – historically so, even in Canada’s national parks. Today, Parks Canada has a deeper understanding of the important role fire plays in the health of forest ecosystems. Without fire, many species, such as white pine, red oak and pitch pine, struggle to regenerate. Forests that never burn become less diverse in structure, age and species, and have low reproductive vigor, making them especially susceptible to disease, pest infestation and catastrophic loss. Armed with this knowledge and specially trained staff, Parks Canada has developed a wealth of experience in the use of controlled, or prescribed fire to maintain and restore forest ecosystems. These carefully planned operations also often provide exciting opportunities for park visitors to learn about the practice and benefits of prescribed fire across Canada’s eastern national parks.