ERM will be overseeing fuel reduction at both Pondhawk Natural Area and Yamato Scrub Natural Area in Boca Raton to minimize the risk of wildfires and create healthy, open scrub habitat. An experienced operator is using a tracked mower-like machine to reduce the height and mass of vegetation such as scrub oak, saw palmetto and pines. Department staff are on site during the process to oversee the work.
Pondhawk - The work is scheduled to last for up to two weeks and will begin Friday, October 14, 2022. Expect periodic trail closures while work is being done.
Yamato Scrub - Work has been completed and the trails have reopened.
The chopped areas will look dramatically different. But they will not stay that way for long. Within the first few months oaks and saw palmettos will sprout new growth. Grasses, wildflowers and small bushes that require sunny spots will move into the newly-opened areas. It's not just native plants that benefit from this work. Gopher tortoises need open sandy areas to dig their burrows and forage for food.
For more information on wildfire mitigation and ERM's prescribed fire program, click here. 
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