The prescribed fires tentatively scheduled for September 1st-3rd in the National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine Key, have been postponed as a result of unfavorable wind and moisture conditions. The strengthening and size of Tropical Storm Hermine in the Gulf of Mexico has resulted in stronger winds and drying conditions unfavorable to prescribed fire in the Big Pine Key pine rocklands. Although we recently received significant rainfall, factors since early this week such as wind speed and fuel moisture are now outside those desired for a safe and effective prescribed fire. Our interagency team is focused on firefighter and community safety as well as meeting the ecological goals of prescribed fire in the pine rocklands and, will continue to monitor weather conditions with the hopes favorable conditions will be present for prescribed fire operations in the near future. Our fire prescriptions in the National Key Deer Refuge are tight so it is not uncommon for staff to plan fire operations and need to remain flexible under changing weather conditions such as these this week. We are optimistic for favorable conditions soon and will continue to notify community members when prescribed fires are again anticipated.

For more information, please contact Dan Clark at 305-304-4907, Kristie Killam 305-304-9625 or Kate Watts
at 305-395-1573 and follow Refuge updates on our website and Facebook page:

www.fws.gov/refuge/National_Key_Deer_Refuge/
www.facebook.com/floridakeysrefuges

The National Wildlife Refuge System protects wildlife and wildlife habitat on more than 150 million acres of land and water from the Caribbean to the Pacific, Maine to Alaska. Refuges also improve human health, provide outdoor recreation, and support local economies. Visit our home page at http://www.fws.gov/refuges/.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit http://www.fws.gov/.