The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) conducted a prescribed burn on March 28, targeting approximately 15 acres of grassland at the Lafayetteville Multiple Use Area in Milan. The burn, aimed at reducing the risk of wildfire later in the year, took place adjacent to a parking area along Route 199 east of Lafayetteville. The site, owned by the state, spans 715 acres and is popular among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
A statewide ban on residential brush burning remains in effect through May 14.
DEC forest rangers and staff from the agency’s forests, fish, and wildlife departments, based at Region 3 headquarters in New Paltz, coordinated efforts to manage the burn. The Milan Fire Department and staff from the Sharpe Reservation in Fishkill also assisted in controlling the fire.
The Sharpe Reservation, operated by the Fresh Air Fund, is one of six properties that bring New York City children to the mid-Hudson region for outdoor experiences each summer. The Fresh Air Fund, founded in 1877, continues to offer rural programming at Sharpe and other locations.
DEC deployed a drone to monitor fire activity during the burn, and a short video of the event is available for viewing.
“Prescribed burns are an essential tool in reducing wildfire risk and promoting healthy ecosystems,” A DEC spokesperson told the Herald.
The Lafayetteville Multiple Use Area is open to the public year-round. While it has no marked trails, its diverse terrain makes it suitable for wildlife observation and exploration. Wilbur Pond, located within the area along Route 199, is a popular fishing spot. The site also draws hunters, as it supports a steady deer population and is stocked with pheasants by DEC each fall. Hunting typically occurs from October through February.
For more information about prescribed burns and public access to the Lafayetteville Multiple Use Area, visit the DEC website.