Several prescribed burns are scheduled to take place in northern Wisconsin's Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest this spring and summer. The Forest Service uses prescribed fires to reduce overgrown vegetation and protect local communities, infrastructure, and natural resources from wildfires. Burn plans identify the best conditions for trees and plants to burn safely. The right fire can prevent the spread of pest insects and disease, remove unwanted species that threaten species native to an ecosystem, and stimulate the growth of trees, wildflowers, and other plants. All prescribed burns require final approval from the U.S. Forest Service.