Farmers and landowners are being encouraged to “burn to protect” the Welsh countryside.
The Wales Wildfire Board is urging the responsible use of fire as a land-management tool during the burn season.
The board recognises fire as an ancient part of the natural ecology and a long-standing land-management method for agriculture, game, and wildlife conservation.
Farmers and landowners can burn heather, grass, bracken, and gorse from October 1 until March 15 (up to March 31 in upland areas) but must have a burn plan to ensure safety.
The Wales Wildfire Board is advising landowners to notify their fire and rescue service to prevent unnecessary false alarms and ensure readiness in case of an out-of-control burn.
They are also advised to have sufficient people and equipment to control the fire, check wind direction, and ensure no risk to property, roads, and wildlife.
Iwan Cray, chair of the Wales Wildfire Board and deputy chief fire officer of Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: “As land managers, you play a critical role in safeguarding our communities from the devastating impacts of wildfires.
“Your land and livelihood are not just vital to you but are also essential to our broader ecosystem and economy.
“We are urging you to implement effective wildfire prevention strategies when burning your land.
“Burning your land responsibly is crucial in protecting your assets, guaranteeing the safety of your family and maintaining the productivity of your land whilst also ensuring you respect our countryside and play your part in safeguarding our environment and keeping our communities safe.”
Andrew Wright, deputy chair of the Wales Wildfire Board and senior specialist advisor at Natural Resources Wales, said: “It is vitally important that we all continue to work together to build a healthier, more resilient and increasingly biodiverse landscape here in Wales, doing what we can to protect this precious resource for the future.
“We understand that controlled burns can have a positive effect on the environment, creating biodiversity and a sustainable ecosystem and we are available for free advice on how to do this safely.”