The Forest: On fire

Controlled burning is one of the most valuable tools for land managers in Florida. Using prescribed fire a land manager can achieve a number of objectives; reducing combustible fuel buildup, aiding disease and pest control, improving certain wildlife habitats, clearing areas for new growth, removing unwanted invasive plants while improving growing conditions for desired species, etc.

Apparently dove, deer, quail, and turkey benefit from prescribed fire as do many listed wildlife species, including the Florida panther, gopher tortoise, indigo snake, and red cockaded woodpecker, although I wonder about the gopher tortoise. Fire can stimulate production of desirable plant growth, improve food availability and restore ecosystem balance. So, as it is an important part of the Forest's life, I decided on the above for my blip, bypassing an HDR of Eaton Creek, a bridge,, and NOT an osprey, but a hawk!