Prescribed Burning Efforts Grow in Sequoyah County

Monday, January 12, 2026 —Sequoyah County landowners and residents are invited to attend a prescribed burn meeting on Tuesday, January 13. The meeting is set to take place at the Sequoyah County Fairgrounds at 5 p.m., as efforts continue to develop a prescribed burn association (PBA) for Sequoyah County.  

Prescribed Burn Associations have many benefits, such as helping property owners safely use controlled fire as a land management tool. Prescribed fire reduces excess vegetation, improves native grasses, and controls invasive species while lowering the risk of destructive wildfires.

Organizers say prescribed burning benefits landowners of all sizes and offers major advantages for wildlife habitat, cattle production, soil health, and overall land quality. Fire officials note that areas managed with prescribed burns are far less likely to experience dangerous wildfire behavior due to reduced fuel buildup.

The formation of a local PBA would enable members to share equipment, labor, and training, while addressing common concerns such as liability, a lack of manpower, and limited experience. PBAs also promote education in fire behavior, weather conditions, smoke management, and safety practices.

State and federal programs may provide funding of up to $20 per acre to assist landowners with prescribed burns, and a nonprofit partner has been identified to help secure shared equipment for county use.

A free meal will be provided for those attending Tuesday evening's meeting. Organizers encourage landowners, ranchers, firefighters, and community members to participate and help guide the future of prescribed burning in Sequoyah County.

Community involvement, organizers say, is essential to restoring land health, improving agricultural productivity, and making Sequoyah County more resilient to wildfires.

For additional information, contact the OSU extension office at 918-775-4838. The Sequoyah County Fairgrounds is located at 464101 E. 1070 Rd in Sallisaw.

Lindsie Dyer, Staff Writer

For more news stories, stay tuned to The MIX 105.1 or visit www.kxmx.com