Wildland fire personnel from various bases conducted prescribed burns across designated wildland areas of the installation to reduce wildfire risk and support long-term ecosystem health at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, Feb. 17-27, 2026. 

Little Rock Air Force Base, Ellsworth Air Force Base, Nellis Air Force Base, Avon Park Air Force Range, Barksdale Air Force Base and the Nevada Bureau of Land Management all had a hand with the recent prescribed burns. They carefully planned operations designed to remove built-up dead vegetation under controlled conditions, lowering the risk of larger wildfires while promoting healthy forest growth. 

“Our goal is to protect Air Force resources and neighboring communities by reducing hazardous fuels while also supporting the natural ecosystem on base,” said Austin Heffington, 19th Civil Engineer Squadron hunting, fishing and forestry program manager and wildland fire program coordinator. 

The operation brought together wildland fire professionals from multiple installations and partner agencies. Randy Cozad, Barksdale Wildland Fire Support Module fire management officer said prescribed burns serve both the installation and surrounding communities. 

“It creates a boundary,” Cozad said. “We’re helping prevent a wildfire from leaving the installation and impacting the public, or one from outside spreading onto the base.” 

Beyond wildfire prevention, the burns help maintain the installation’s natural landscape by removing competing undergrowth and allowing native grasses and various pine to regenerate. As new vegetation returns, wildlife benefits from improved habitat and fresh growth. 

Cozad emphasized that each burn is the result of extensive planning and experienced personnel working under carefully monitored conditions. 

“What may look erratic to the public is actually very well planned and controlled,” Cozad said. “From leadership to the crews on the ground, everyone plays a role in protecting the mission and the community.”