Bill > HR0174

This resolution declares April 2025 as Prescribed Burning Awareness Month in Illinois, highlighting the critical ecological, economic, and cultural significance of prescribed fire as a land management technique. The resolution emphasizes that prescribed fire is a traditional practice used by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, serving multiple purposes such as preventing severe wildfires, managing wildlife habitats, controlling invasive species, and maintaining healthy landscapes. Despite its importance, only about 6% of conservation lands in Illinois currently use prescribed burning. The resolution acknowledges the Illinois Prescribed Fire Council's role in promoting safe prescribed fire use and references the 2007 Illinois Prescribed Burning Act, which legally defines prescribed fire as a planned and controlled burning of vegetation under specific environmental conditions. By supporting the continued and appropriate use of prescribed fire, the resolution aims to raise awareness about this vital land management tool that provides ecological services like clean air and water, contributes to local economies, and helps maintain the state's grasslands and forests.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=174&GAID=18&DocTypeID=HR&SessionID=114&GA=104