The Annual Prairie Fire March 29, 2018

Here in Nauvoo there is a plot of land that is designated for historical purposes that depicts what prairie grass is and its effects on the land once burned.  You wouldn't think that a prairie had any impact on the soil once burned. 

Brother Durrel Nelson, a horticulturist 

This good brother who is a native of Nauvoo who also was once in the Temple Presidency and also a member of the Nauvoo Advancement Group, spoke to us regarding the effects of a prairie fire and the impact it has on soil.  It can be enriched from the burned grass and other vegetation as in wild flowers and even some small animals. Over time and the elements of the seasons can help build up a compost that enriches the soil for yet other growth. This process gives the soil 33 feet deep of top soil.  I want to pack some up and take it back with us to St. George, Utah.

Today there was a celebration of a Prairie Fire.  We didn't know what to expect so we went thinking, "Oh well" they are going to burn a tall grass field.  Little did we know that we would learn something of value regarding soil especially during the 1800's.  It was told to us that Prairie Fires are dangerous and that you can't outrun them.  Fatalities are known to take place if precaution is not used.  Precautions such as "Stay away from them'"!!

Following are pictures taken by Al Burningham of the event today

Just before the fire. You have to put yourself in the picture so that our readers know we were actually there.

 Fire is administered and controlled by the Nauvoo Fire Department.  People shown here are in a safe distance from the fire. 

Note the Temple in the background

Fire getting started

Took all of five minutes to bring the tall grass and any other vegetation burned to the ground

 Missionary friends, Elder and Sister Barth with Elder Duncan

 Elder and Sister Droste

Elder and Sister Holm